MB+-+Act+II+q&a

//Macbeth// Name ___________________________ by William Shakespeare Study Questions for Act II Period _______

Act II, scene i
 * 1) Macbeth asks Banquo to meet with him to discuss something that will increase his honor. In response, Banquo says, “So I lose none in seeking to augment it but still keep my bosom franchised and allegiance clear, I shall be counseled.” What is Banquo trying to tell Macbeth? (Augment = add to something)


 * 1) In regard to question 1, what do you think Macbeth might want to say to Banquo in private?


 * 1) What does Macbeth see floating ahead of him? Where is it pointing?

Act II, scene ii
 * 1) What has Lady Macbeth done to get her courage up for the murder? (first line of the scene!)


 * 1) Lady Macbeth says that she would have done the deed, except for one thing. What’s her excuse? (II, ii, 16)


 * 1) What mistake does Macbeth make that upsets Lady Macbeth?

Act II, scene iii
 * 1) Does the Porter speak in prose or poetry?


 * 1) How does the Porter’s scene affect the mood of the play?


 * 1) What is the importance of Lennox’s speech about chimneys, screams, and birds?

10.When Macbeth speaks at II, iii, 107, his speech has two meanings.

- What does this speech mean outwardly, to the people who are listening?

- What does this speech mean to Macbeth personally?

11. What excuse does Macbeth use for killing the king’s servants?

12.How does Lady Macbeth reinforce her weak womanliness in front of the others?

13.What do Malcolm and Donalbain plan to do? **Why?**

Act II, scene iv 14. Who is being blamed for the murder of King Duncan? Explain. (There are more than two suspects.)