Macbeth Act 4 Flashcards

Apparitions in Macbeth

• Apparitions are supernatural visions created by the Witches, influencing Macbeth's actions.
• The apparitions include:
  • A head with a helmet warning Macbeth to "Beware Macduff."
  • A bloody child who reveals that no man born of a woman can harm Macbeth.
  • A crowned child holding a branch indicating Macbeth will remain unchallenged until Birnam Wood moves to Dunsinane.

Lady Macduff and Her Son

• Lady Macduff is characterized as distraught and loving, serving as a contrast to Lady Macbeth's ambition.
• Her son is innocent and represents the tragic consequences of Macbeth's ambition.

Macbeth's Shift in Attitude

• Macbeth's confidence grows significantly from his first encounter with the Witches, demonstrating a change in character as he becomes obsessed with power.
• He shifts from surprise at prophecies to an expectation of greatness.

Nature of the Witches

• The Witches embody stereotypical traits: they cast spells, predict the future, and possess an ugly appearance, heightening their supernatural aura.

The Impact of Predictions

• Macbeth's acceptance of the Witches' prophecies reflects his distorted reality, showcasing his obsessive pursuit of power.
• Banquo is warned subtly about the consequences of his desires, emphasizing caution.

Banquo's Ghost

• In the witches' sequence of kings, some carry multiple scepters, signifying the rule over various realms, symbolizing power and consequence.
• Banquo's ghost holds a mirror, representing the line of kings descending from him, serving as a reminder of Macbeth's fears.

Dynamic Between Macbeth and Macduff

• Macbeth and Macduff are currently enemies, with Macduff supporting Malcolm's claim to the throne.
• Macduff's fierce opposition to Macbeth's tyranny drives the plot toward conflict.

Macbeth's Ruthlessness

• Macbeth's ambition leads him to commit heinous acts, including the slaughter of innocent women and children, a stark contrast to his previous political motivations.
• The decision to murder Macduff's family is portrayed as pure evil, lacking justification.

Emotional Parallels

• Lady Macduff, as a foil to Lady Macbeth, embodies love and innocence, highlighting the tragic results of Macbeth's ambition.
• The innocent dialogue between Lady Macduff and her son deepens the audience's horror at their impending murder.

Malcolm's Characterization

• Malcolm exaggeratedly describes his flaws (lust, greed) to test Macduff's loyalty and intentions.
• Despite disqualifying himself as a king, he reveals the support from England to overthrow Macbeth.

Macduff's Tragic News

• Ross hesitates to inform Macduff of his family's murder, aiming to keep him focused on their goal against Macbeth.
• The double meaning of Ross's line alludes to the peace found in death, intensifying the emotional impact on Macduff.

Coping with Grief

• Malcolm advises Macduff to channel his grief into anger, promoting a manly response to tragedy.
• Macduff vows to confront Macbeth, illustrating a typical human reaction to loss, demonstrating resilience and purpose in the face of despair.

Test your knowledge of Act 4 of Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' with these flashcards. Identify key characters, terms, and concepts that shape the play's development during this pivotal act. Ideal for students and enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of Shakespeare's work.