Macbeth Prophecies Flashcards

What will Macbeth be named by Duncan?

According to the second prophecy, Macbeth will be King.

What does the third prophecy say about Banquo?

The fourth prophecy involves a disembodied ______.

What does the fifth prophecy state about Macbeth's vulnerability?

What does the sixth prophecy foretell about Great Birnam Wood?

What is described in the seventh prophecy?

Prophecies in Macbeth

The first prophecy reveals that Macbeth will be granted the title of Thane of Cawdor by King Duncan as a reward for his valor in battle.
The second prophecy foretells that Macbeth will ascend to the throne and become King of Scotland.
The third prophecy pertains to Banquo, stating that he will not be King himself, but his descendants will inherit the throne, symbolizing his lineage's importance.
The fourth prophecy, represented by a disembodied head, warns Macbeth to beware of Macduff, foreshadowing Macduff's role in Macbeth's downfall.
The fifth prophecy involves a Bloody Child declaring that no man born of a woman shall harm Macbeth, which ironically leads to Macduff's unexpected threat from a caesarean birth.
The sixth prophecy depicts a child holding a crown and a branch, indicating that Macbeth will only be defeated when Birnam Wood moves to Dunsinane Hill, reflecting the clever stratagem used by Malcolm's army to camouflage their numbers.
The seventh prophecy shows eight kings following Banquo, with the final King holding a mirror, symbolizing Banquo's legacy and the future lineage of kings that will arise from him.

Explore the critical prophecies from Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' with these flashcards. Each card details a specific prophecy that shapes Macbeth's fate and influences the play's tragic events. Study these key points to gain deeper insights into the themes of ambition and fate in the play.