MACBETH ACT 3 SCENE 4

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Questions and Answers

What does Macbeth refer to when he says, 'Thou art the best o' the cut-throats'?

He suggests that the First Murderer will be the next to die.

He is mocking the First Murderer.

He questions the First Murderer's loyalty.

He praises the First Murderer for his efficiency. (correct)

What does Lady Macbeth imply when she says 'The feast is sold that is not often vouch'd'?

The feast will not be enjoyable without Banquo.

They should not host a banquet without proper ceremony. (correct)

Macbeth is being too generous at the feast.

They won't hold many more banquets in the future.

What does Macbeth mean when he says 'Fleance is 'scaped'?

Fleance is hiding under the table.

Fleance has escaped the murder. (correct)

Fleance has been captured.

Fleance is dead.

How does Macbeth feel about Banquo's death?

He is anxious about competing with Banquo's heirs. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth mean by 'I had else been perfect'?

He would have been free from worries. Signup and view all the answers

What does Lady Macbeth mean when she says 'Sweet remembrancer!'?

She is reminding Macbeth to enjoy the feast. Signup and view all the answers

What does the appearance of Banquo's ghost symbolize for Macbeth?

It signifies Macbeth's guilt and paranoia. Signup and view all the answers

What mood is depicted at the banquet as Macbeth prepares to host his guests?

An anxious mood filled with uncertainty. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth mean by saying, 'blood will have blood'?

Bloodshed will lead to more bloodshed. Signup and view all the answers

How does Lady Macbeth attempt to calm the guests during Macbeth's episode?

By insisting that Macbeth is simply unwell. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth refer to when he talks about 'the air-drawn dagger'?

A product of his imagination representing guilt. Signup and view all the answers

What is Lady Macbeth's reaction to Macbeth seeing the ghost of Banquo?

She dismisses it as a figment of his imagination. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth compare the appearance of the ghost to?

A rugged Russian bear. Signup and view all the answers

What concern does Ross express about Macbeth's condition?

Macbeth's health is deteriorating. Signup and view all the answers

How does Macbeth feel about the idea of returning to a normal state after his crimes?

He thinks it would be worse than continuing. Signup and view all the answers

What does Lady Macbeth mean by saying Macbeth has displaced the mirth?

He has ruined the joyous atmosphere. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth believe should happen to the dead?

They should rise again if they have been wronged. Signup and view all the answers

What does Lady Macbeth suggest is lacking for Macbeth?

The ability to sleep. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Macbeth mingling with his guests during the banquet?

It shows his confidence and control over the situation. Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'cabin'd, cribb'd, confined, bound' suggest about Macbeth's state of mind?

He is overwhelmed by feelings of entrapment and doubt. Signup and view all the answers

How does Macbeth's reaction to Banquo's murder contrast with his earlier ambitions?

He becomes increasingly paranoid about his power. Signup and view all the answers

What does Lady Macbeth imply by stating that the 'feast is sold that is not often vouch'd'?

The feast's worth is diminished without proper celebration. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth mean by referring to Banquo as 'the grown serpent' and Fleance as 'the worm that's fled'?

It indicates Macbeth's awareness of Banquo's threats and Fleance's potential future danger. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Macbeth refer to the first murderer as 'the best o' the cut-throats'?

He is praising the murderer's efficiency in carrying out the task. Signup and view all the answers

What underlying theme is showcased by Lady Macbeth's comment about the lack of cheer at the banquet?

The importance of appearances in maintaining power. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth's statement about the 'teeth for the present' imply regarding his perception of threats?

He acknowledges future threats require constant vigilance. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Macbeth's behavior raises concern among the lords at the banquet?

His fit of madness and vision of Banquo's ghost. Signup and view all the answers

Which metaphor does Lady Macbeth use to describe Macbeth's fear during the banquet?

A woman's story told by the fireside. Signup and view all the answers

How does Macbeth respond to the ghost of Banquo during the banquet?

He commands it to leave his sight with anger. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth mean when he states, 'I am in blood stepp'd in so far'?

He feels he has committed too many crimes to turn back. Signup and view all the answers

What does Lady Macbeth suggest Macbeth is lacking as the banquet progresses?

The ability to control his emotions. Signup and view all the answers

What warning does Lady Macbeth convey to Macbeth regarding his behavior at the banquet?

He must remain composed or risk losing their power. Signup and view all the answers

Which character expresses concern for Macbeth's health during the banquet?

Ross Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth reflect on when he considers that 'the times have been'?

A belief that the dead remain dead. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth imply about the consequences of his violent actions when he says, 'blood will have blood'?

He believes violence will always lead to more violence. Signup and view all the answers

How does Macbeth view the act of murder after he has committed it?

He believes it comes with a constant state of fear and paranoia. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth mean when he says 'To saucy doubts and fears' in connection with Banquo's murder?

Macbeth is expressing his feeling of being trapped by his anxieties and insecurities following Banquo's death. Signup and view all the answers

How does the imagery of 'the grown serpent' and 'the worm that's fled' reflect Macbeth's view on future threats?

Macbeth sees Banquo as a significant threat ('the grown serpent') while viewing Fleance as a lesser danger that could become more consequential in the future. Signup and view all the answers

What does Lady Macbeth's comment about the feast being 'sold' suggest regarding their hospitality?

It indicates her belief that true hospitality involves genuine warmth and cheer, not just formalities. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Lady Macbeth urge Macbeth to maintain composure during the banquet?

She wants to prevent suspicion among the guests and the disruption of their plans for power. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth's reaction to Banquo's ghost suggest about his mental state?

His reaction reveals his growing instability and guilt manifested through hallucinations. Signup and view all the answers

How does Macbeth's assurance to Lady Macbeth that he will 'mingle with society' contrast with his actions during the banquet?

Despite claiming he will engage with the guests, he is visibly distressed and consumed by thoughts of his crimes. Signup and view all the answers

What do Macbeth's words about being 'cabin'd, cribb'd, confined, bound' imply about his current emotional state?

They suggest he feels trapped and overwhelmed by his guilt and the consequences of his actions. Signup and view all the answers

What can we infer about Macbeth’s perception of fate based on his line 'the times have been'?

This implies he believes the situation has changed drastically due to his actions and that he feels a sense of inevitability. Signup and view all the answers

What does Lady Macbeth suggest when she tells the guests not to mind Macbeth's behavior?

She implies that his strange behavior is temporary and should not be dwelled upon by the guests. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Macbeth express a sense of fear after seeing Banquo's ghost?

He fears that his guilt and the consequences of his actions are catching up to him, leading to a loss of control. Signup and view all the answers

How does Macbeth’s attitude towards his murders evolve in this scene?

He acknowledges the severity of his actions but feels trapped in a cycle of violence, believing he must continue to protect his power. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth's declaration, 'What man dare, I dare,' signify about his character at this point?

It signifies his defiance and willingness to confront any challenge, but also highlights his desperation. Signup and view all the answers

What does Lady Macbeth mean by saying, 'the very painting of your fear'?

She means that Macbeth's visible fear is exaggerated and reflects his weakness rather than true courage. Signup and view all the answers

How does Ross’s concern about Macbeth's condition contribute to the overall tension in the scene?

Ross's concern signals that others are beginning to notice Macbeth's instability, heightening the atmosphere of unease. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth mean when he contemplates that 'stones have been known to move and trees to speak'?

He suggests that unnatural events occur when blood is shed, indicating a world turned upside down by his violence. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does Lady Macbeth try to assert control during Macbeth's breakdown?

She attempts to downplay his visions and urges him to focus on maintaining their composure in front of their guests. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth's farewell to the ghost reveal about his mental state?

It reveals that he is deeply troubled and feels cornered by his guilt, signifying a break from reality. Signup and view all the answers

What theme emerges from Macbeth’s reflection on mortality when he says, 'blood will have blood'?

The theme of revenge and retribution emerges, highlighting the cyclical nature of violence and its inevitable consequences. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Macbeth's Banquet

Macbeth hosts a celebratory banquet for his lords and attendants.
The first murderer arrives, reporting that Banquo has been killed, but Fleance has escaped.
Macbeth is shaken by Fleance's escape, feeling his sense of control is compromised.
Lady Macbeth encourages Macbeth to maintain a facade of composure during the banquet.
The ghost of Banquo appears to Macbeth, prompting him to descend into madness.
Lady Macbeth attempts to dismiss it as a figment of Macbeth's imagination.
Macbeth becomes increasingly erratic, revealing his guilt and paranoia to his guests.
Macbeth's mental state deteriorates as he sees the ghost multiple times, causing him to yell and threaten it.
Lady Macbeth suggests that the guests leave abruptly, hoping to restore some order.
Macbeth soliloquises about the inevitability of blood and the supernatural occurrences plaguing him.
Macbeth remarks on Macduff's absence from the banquet, revealing his paranoia and distrust of others.
Macbeth reveals his intention to seek out the Weird Sisters for further prophecies, seeking to solidify his power and control his fate.
Lady Macbeth recognizes that her husband's state is spiraling downwards, and urges him to find peace through sleep.

The Murder of Banquo

Macbeth hosts a celebratory banquet for his lords, with the Ghost of Banquo appearing to Macbeth during the feast.
Macbeth greets his guests and wishes Banquo was present, while hinting at Banquo's demise.
Lady Macbeth assures the guests her husband is not well but she dismisses the Ghost, telling the Lords to ignore it.
Macbeth breaks down, confronting the Ghost and questioning its presence.
The Ghost of Banquo vanishes and the Lords excuse themselves.
Macbeth continues to question the Ghost's presence, and Lady Macbeth dismisses it and sends the Lords away.

Macbeth's Distrust and Fear

Macbeth and Lady Macbeth discuss the murder of Banquo.
Lady Macbeth tries to console her husband, but he is consumed by his paranoia and fear.
Macbeth remarks on how he "had else been perfect" if Fleance had been killed alongside Banquo.
He feels “cabin’d, cribb’d, confined, bound in" by his actions and fears.

Macduff's Absence

Macbeth is increasingly suspicious of Macduff's absence.
He reveals his plans to consult the Weird Sisters again and learn "By the worst means, the worst."
Macbeth is now determined to learn more about his future, regardless of the cost.

Macbeth's Mental State

Macbeth is troubled by his sleeplessness and describes his state as "My strange and self-abuse / Is the initiate fear that wants hard use"
He acknowledges his fear and acknowledges that he and his Lady are "but young in deed" in the evil they have committed.

The Supernatural

The scene reinforces the supernatural aspect: Macbeth sees ghosts, the birds are seen as omens.
Throughout the scene, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth's interactions are fraught with guilt and fear.
Macbeth is increasingly paranoid, experiencing hallucinations and visions.
The Ghost of Banquo becomes a symbol of his guilt and fear.
The play delves into the nature of prophecy, fate, and power.

Banquo's Murder

Macbeth hosts a feast for his lords
The first murderer arrives at the feast and reveals Banquo has been murdered
Macbeth expresses relief that Banquo is dead, but also anxiety that Fleance has escaped
Macbeth expresses concern about his future because he is now "cabin'd, cribb'd, confined, bound in" by fear

Lady Macbeth’s Efforts to Maintain a facade

Lady Macbeth takes the lead in maintaining a facade of confidence and composure
She tries to encourage Macbeth to participate in the celebration by criticizing his behavior and suggesting that it makes the guests feel uncomfortable
Lady Macbeth tries to calm the crowd by saying that Macbeth’s "fits" are common for him

The Ghost of Banquo

While Macbeth is trying to enjoy the feast, the ghost of Banquo enters the room and sits in Macbeth’s chair
Macbeth sees the ghost but the other lords do not, leading them to believe Macbeth is unwell
Macbeth confronts the ghost, revealing his fear and guilt

Lady Macbeth attempts to dismiss the ghost

Lady Macbeth tries to convince the guests that the ghost is nothing more than a hallucination
Lady Macbeth encourages the guests to ignore Macbeth's behavior
She tells Macbeth that he is “unmanned in folly"
She attempts to further dismiss the ghost by saying that the ghost is “no other” than a usual occurrence, but ultimately fails to help Macbeth, who sees the ghost again and again

Macbeth’s Fears of the supernatural

Macbeth continues to be haunted by the ghost of Banquo, his fear and paranoia growing
He compares Banquo’s death to previous murders but worries that in modern times murders resurface from the dead to haunt the living

Macbeth’s plans to consult with the witches

Macbeth confesses to his lords that he is suffering from a strange "infirmity"
He drinks to the health of Banquo, expressing a desire for him to be present
Macbeth decides to visit the witches again to learn more about his future and what awaits him
He is determined to resolve his insecurities, even by “the worst means”

Lady Macbeth’s Concern for Macbeth

Lady Macbeth expresses concern for Macbeth, who is “in blood Stepp’d in so far,” and for his lack of sleep
She fears Macbeth's obsession with what the witches will say will lead him down a dangerous road

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Description

Explore the pivotal banquet scene in Shakespeare's 'Macbeth', where the psychological unraveling of Macbeth takes center stage. Witness how guilt, paranoia, and the supernatural intertwine as Macbeth confronts the ghost of Banquo. This quiz will delve into key themes and character dynamics at the banquet.