Macbeth's Soliloquy and Murderous Plans

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Questions and Answers

What was Macbeth promised by the weird women?

He would be Thane of Cawdor and Glamis. (correct)

He would gain power through fair means.

He would have a line of kings as descendants.

He would be king, but only for a short time.

What does Banquo fear regarding Macbeth's rise to power?

That he will not fulfill the witches' prophecy.

That he will betray Banquo for power.

That Macbeth will be overthrown.

That he will be treacherous to gain the throne. (correct)

How does Banquo view the witches' prophecies?

He thinks they hold no significance.

He is confident they are only meant for Macbeth.

He believes they are always false.

He suspects they may be true for himself as well. (correct)

What does Macbeth intend to do the next day concerning the council meeting?

Postpone the council to another day. Signup and view all the answers

What does Banquo mention about his journey?

He will be riding into darkness. Signup and view all the answers

What information do they discuss regarding the princes?

They are in England and Ireland spreading lies. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth mean by saying 'you have it now'?

He refers to his current status as king. Signup and view all the answers

What is the central concern for Banquo after Macbeth becomes king?

The future of his own lineage. Signup and view all the answers

What motivates the speaker to seek assistance in the content?

A chance to fix or end his life Signup and view all the answers

Why must the speaker hide his true plans from the public eye?

He has important reasons that require secrecy Signup and view all the answers

What consequence does the speaker fear if he kills Banquo?

He will betray mutual friends Signup and view all the answers

Which characters does the speaker plan to have killed?

Banquo and Fleance Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase "every minute of his being thrusts against my near'st of life" imply?

Banquo's existence is a constant threat to the speaker Signup and view all the answers

What condition must be met for the speaker's plan to succeed?

Banquo must not suspect anything Signup and view all the answers

How does the speaker feel about the friends he shares with Banquo?

He feels they complicate his plans Signup and view all the answers

What timing does the speaker emphasize for the execution of his plans?

It must occur tonight Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth fear about Banquo?

His superior wisdom and courage Signup and view all the answers

What is Macbeth's view on being king without security?

It is meaningless. Signup and view all the answers

How does Macbeth plan to deal with Banquo and his descendants?

By assassinating them Signup and view all the answers

What realization does Macbeth have about the witches' prophecies?

They foreshadow his downfall. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth suggest about the nature of men?

They are defined by their skills and qualities. Signup and view all the answers

What motivates Macbeth's actions against Banquo?

Fear of his potential as a ruler Signup and view all the answers

How does Macbeth feel about his past actions for power?

He feels remorse and regret. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth accuse Banquo of in his speech to the murderers?

Causing their suffering. Signup and view all the answers

What is the overall tone of Macbeth's feelings toward Banquo?

Admiration mixed with fear Signup and view all the answers

How does Macbeth’s view of fate influence his plans?

He aims to confront fate directly. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth imply by comparing men to dogs?

Men can be ranked by their abilities. Signup and view all the answers

What does Macbeth refer to when he mentions 'my eternal jewel'?

His soul and consciousness Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Banquo does Macbeth find most threatening?

His lineage and potential heirs Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Macbeth's Soliloquy and Plans

Macbeth, now king, expresses concerns about the witches' prophecy, suspecting foul play in his ascension. He doubts that his line will continue, fearing Banquo's lineage may claim kingship.
Macbeth contemplates the potential truth in the witches' prophecies, hoping they hold a similar truth for him.
Macbeth reveals his fear of Banquo, and sees him as a potential threat to his own kingship. He is the only one Macbeth fears.
Macbeth describes Banquo as possessing courage, wisdom, and a formidable disposition, and that Banquo was angered by the witches prophecies regarding Macbeth.
Macbeth is determined to eliminate Banquo and Fleance, to prevent Banquo's descendants from ruling.
Macbeth reveals he had Duncan murdered for Banquo's issue, and that Banquo was the only real threat to him.
He feels the need to eliminate Banquo's lineage entirely and seeks his murderer's assistance to do so.

Discussion of Plans with Murderers

Macbeth explains to the murderers that Banquo was the cause of their suffering, and presents himself as innocent.
Macbeth describes how Banquo manipulated and deceived others in the past.
Macbeth emphasizes the urgent need for Banquo's and Fleance's demise, explaining that their lives are a threat to his own.
Macbeth details how their elimination will secure his kingship and his comfort.
Macbeth highlights the importance of eliminating Fleance, emphasizing that their absence from the throne is paramount to Macbeth's security.
Macbeth's actions include deceitful manipulation and deception to achieve his goals.

Final Instructions to Murderers

Macbeth requests the murderers' absolute commitment to the plan for Banquo and Fleance's murder that evening.
He stresses that the deed must be carried out discreetly, removed from the palace for secrecy.
Macbeth outlines a precise time frame—tonight—for the event.
Macbeth emphasizes the necessity for secrecy in order to avoid suspicion.
Macbeth declares he will meet the murderers again shortly. He shares the location and timing with them.
Macbeth expresses the need for complete discretion and secrecy to avoid discovery, and insists on having an accomplice to conceal his actions.

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Description

Explore Macbeth's inner turmoil as he grapples with the witches' prophecies and his fears surrounding Banquo. This quiz delves into Macbeth's determination to secure his throne by planning Banquo's murder to eliminate the threat posed by his lineage. Reflect on the psychological and moral implications of Macbeth's choices.