Act 1 Scene 5

1.       What is Lady Macbeth’s opinion of her husband’s character?

2.       What is the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth?

3.       What indications do we have thus far in the play that the idea of murdering Duncan has been previously discussed by Macbeth and his wife?

Act 1 Scene 6

1.       What growing impression of Duncan do we receive from this scene?

2.       Explain the absence of Macbeth from this scene.

3.       Reveal the dramatic irony of the speeches of Duncan and Banquo.

Act 1 Scene 7

1.       What reasons does Macbeth give for not going on with the plans to continue with the crime?

2.       Why is Duncan revealed as a virtuous and popular ruler?

3.       How does Lady Macbeth restore Macbeth’s determination?

4.       Lady Macbeth’s final argument is consistent with Macbeth’s thoughts at the beginning of his opening soliloquy in this scene: in what way?