Act II Questions page 355

1. Whom do you blame more for the murder of King Duncan-Macbeth or Lady
Macbeth? Explain.
2. Describe Macbeths and Lady Macbeths reactions to the murder just after it is
committed. Compare and contrast their reactions to the deed.
3. What kind of gate does the porter imagine he is tending? In what way is the
porters playful fantasy a comment on Macbeths situation?
4. What two strange occurrences are reported in this act? Why would Shakespeare
include reports of such occurrences at this point in the play? In what way do
these strange occurrences relate to the Elizabethan notion of an orderly and
interconnected universe?
5. What question does Ross ask that indicates he doubts the grooms committed the
murder? Explain.
6. Do you think political assassination like the one in Macbeth commits is ever
justifiable? Why or why not?
Act III Questions page 375
1. What does Macbeth think as he anticipates the murder of Banquo? Compare
and contrast Macbeths thoughts about Banquos murder with his thoughts
before the murder of Duncan.
2. In the banquet scene, what complaint does Macbeth make about the murdered
men? Is there anything humorous or even ridiculous about this complaint?
Why or why not? Does Shakespeare use humor for comic relief in this scene,
as he does in the earlier scene with the porter? Explain.
3. Has the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth change? Explain.
4. What does the murder of Banquo suggest about the effects of evil on
evildoers? Explain.