Macbeth: Key Plot Points and Character Analysis in Shakespeare's Play

What do the three witches plot to do?

They plot to meet Macbeth on his way home after the battle.

How do the characters in Scotland react to Macbeth's bravery?

They praise him as a worthy gentleman, brave Macbeth, worthy thane, and great Glamis.

What prophecy do the witches give to Macbeth?

They proclaim him Thane of Glamis, Thane of Cawdor, and that he shall be king hereafter.

What do the witches predict about Banquo?

They say he will be lesser than Macbeth, yet greater, and that he shall beget kings.

What news does the messenger bring to Macbeth?

He informs Macbeth that he has been made Thane of Cawdor.

What does Lady Macbeth fear about her husband?

She fears he is too weak to fulfill his destiny.

What does Lady Macbeth call upon to gain strength?

She calls on the spirits to fill her with direst cruelty.

What does Macbeth decide about the murder of King Duncan?

Initially, he decides not to go through with it, but Lady Macbeth persuades him otherwise.

What vision does Macbeth see before killing Duncan?

He sees a dagger before him.

What does Macbeth hear after killing King Duncan?

He hears a voice cry, 'Sleep no more! Macbeth doth murder sleep.'

What do Malcolm and Donalbain decide to do after Duncan's murder?

They decide to flee for their lives, with Malcolm going to England and Donalbain to Ireland.

What does Macbeth plan to do about Banquo?

He decides to kill Banquo and his son Fleance to prevent the witches' prophecy from coming true.

What does Banquo say to Fleance before he is killed?

He tells Fleance to fly, as he senses treachery.

What unusual event occurs at Macbeth's coronation feast?

Banquo's ghost appears to Macbeth, causing him to act strangely.

What do the witches say when Macbeth visits them again?

They chant, 'Double, double, toil and trouble; Fire burn and cauldron bubble.'

What is the warning given to Macbeth by the first apparition?

Beware Macduff!

What does the second apparition tell Macbeth?

None of woman born shall harm Macbeth.

What does the third apparition predict for Macbeth?

He shall never be vanquished until Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane.

What does Macbeth order regarding Macduff's family?

He orders the murder of Macduff's wife and children.

What is Macduff's reaction to the news of his family's murder?

He is devastated and questions, 'All my pretty ones? Did you say all?'

What does Lady Macbeth do in her sleep?

She imagines blood on her hands and tries to rub it clean.

What does Macbeth say about death before the battle?

He states he will not be afraid of death until Birnam Forest comes to Dunsinane.

What does Macbeth realize when he sees Malcolm's army?

He realizes the witches' predictions are coming true.

How does Macduff reveal his birth to Macbeth?

He tells Macbeth that he was born by cesarean section.

What is the outcome of the battle between Macduff and Macbeth?

Macduff kills Macbeth and crowns Malcolm as the new king of Scotland.