Welcome to our comprehensive guide dedicated to ISC Macbeth Workbook Question Answers : Act 3. In this post, we meticulously address long questions from all scenes of Macbeth’s Act 3. Delving into William Shakespeare’s masterpiece, we unravel the complexities of character motivations, thematic elements, and linguistic nuances prevalent throughout Act 3. Utilizing the workbook provided by Morning Star publishers, we offer detailed insights and analysis to aid students’ understanding. While our responses are structured based on the workbook, we encourage readers to use them as a foundation for their own exploration and interpretation. Shakespeare’s work is renowned for its depth, allowing ample room for individual analysis and insight. Join us on this enlightening journey through Act 3 of Macbeth, where we uncover the timeless brilliance of Shakespeare’s storytelling and its relevance in today’s world.
Table of Contents
Question Answers :-
Question 1 :-
(i) Referring closely to Act III of the play, how is Macbeth Cawdor, Glamis and King? [5]
Answer :-Â In Act III of the play, Macbeth is addressed as Cawdor, Glamis, and King. Firstly, he is referred to as Cawdor because he was awarded the title of Thane of Cawdor by King Duncan as a reward for his bravery in battle, as prophesied by the witches. Secondly, Macbeth is called Glamis because that is his ancestral title, inherited from his father. Lastly, he is addressed as King following Duncan’s murder, which Macbeth commits to fulfill the witches’ prophecy. These titles signify Macbeth’s rise in power and status, from a loyal thane to a usurping monarch. [5]
(iI) Give reasons to justify the motive of Macbeth for eliminating Banquo. Why is Fleance also to be eliminated? [5]
Answer :-Â Macbeth’s motive for eliminating Banquo stems from his fear of Banquo’s descendants fulfilling the witches’ prophecy, which threatens Macbeth’s hold on the throne. Banquo’s prophecy, that he will be lesser than Macbeth but greater, and that his descendants will inherit the throne, poses a direct threat to Macbeth’s reign. Additionally, Banquo is privy to the witches’ prophecies and therefore knows Macbeth’s secret ambition. Fleance, Banquo’s son, must also be eliminated to prevent the prophecy from coming true, as he is seen as a potential threat to Macbeth’s lineage and rule. By eliminating Banquo and Fleance, Macbeth seeks to secure his position as king and prevent any challenges to his reign. [5]
(iII) (a) Referring closely to Act III of the play, describe how were the time, place and other circumstances favourable for the murder. [10]
Answer :-Â Act III of the play provides the perfect time, place, and circumstances for the murder of Banquo. The scene is set at night, in a secluded location, the road leading to Macbeth’s castle. Darkness provides cover for the murderers, ensuring their actions remain unseen. Additionally, the absence of witnesses and the isolated setting reduce the risk of discovery and interference during the murder. Furthermore, Banquo’s unsuspecting nature and trust in Macbeth make him vulnerable to attack, allowing the murderers to catch him off guard. The murderers’ familiarity with the terrain and their allegiance to Macbeth ensure their commitment to the task. These factors align to create an opportune moment for the successful execution of Macbeth’s plan to eliminate Banquo. [10]
(b) Explain the significance of the Banquet scene in the play. [10]
Answer :-Â The Banquet scene in Act III of Macbeth holds significant thematic and dramatic importance in the play. Firstly, it serves as a pivotal moment in Macbeth’s descent into madness and tyranny. During the banquet, Macbeth’s guilt and paranoia manifest in his hallucination of Banquo’s ghost, symbolizing his guilt-ridden conscience and deteriorating mental state. This scene also highlights the theme of appearance versus reality, as Macbeth attempts to maintain a facade of normalcy despite his inner turmoil. Secondly, the Banquet scene exposes the strained relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, as her attempts to cover up for his erratic behavior only serve to exacerbate his paranoia. Additionally, the reactions of the other guests to Macbeth’s behavior reveal the growing suspicion and distrust towards him, foreshadowing his eventual downfall. Overall, the Banquet scene is a crucial turning point in the play, marking Macbeth’s descent into madness and setting the stage for the tragic events that follow. [10]
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Question 2
(i) Referring closely to Act III of the play, state the effect of the witches prophecy on Banquo. How is the effect different from that on Macbeth? [5]
Answer :-Â In Act III of the play, the witches’ prophecy has a profound effect on Banquo, filling him with both ambition and apprehension. Banquo is intrigued by the prophecy that his descendants will inherit the throne, sparking his ambition for his lineage to achieve greatness. However, unlike Macbeth, Banquo does not act on the witches’ prophecy to fulfill his ambitions. Instead, he remains cautious and skeptical, recognizing the potential dangers associated with pursuing the prophecies. Banquo’s response to the prophecy is marked by a sense of moral integrity and restraint, as he chooses not to succumb to the temptation of power and instead maintains his loyalty to King Duncan and his principles. In contrast, Macbeth is consumed by ambition and driven to immoral actions to secure his hold on power, ultimately leading to his downfall. Thus, while the witches’ prophecy ignites ambition in both Banquo and Macbeth, their responses to the prophecy differ significantly, with Banquo ultimately choosing the path of righteousness while Macbeth descends into tyranny and corruption.Â
(iI) Referring closely to Act Ill of the play, state how the witches place a fruitless crown on Macbeth’s head and put a barren sceptre in his grip. [5]
Answer :-Â Â In Act III of the play, the witches place a fruitless crown on Macbeth’s head and put a barren scepter in his grip during their second meeting. This symbolic imagery signifies the deceptive nature of the witches’ prophecies and the ultimate futility of Macbeth’s quest for power. The fruitless crown represents Macbeth’s attainment of kingship through deceit and treachery, highlighting the inherent emptiness and lack of fulfillment that accompanies his reign. Similarly, the barren scepter symbolizes Macbeth’s inability to produce legitimate heirs and establish a lasting dynasty, signifying the transient and illusory nature of his power. Together, these symbols serve to underscore the tragic irony of Macbeth’s ambition, as his pursuit of power ultimately leads to his downfall and the collapse of his reign. [5]
(iII) (a) With reference to the character of Macbeth, explain the statement that ‘those who do evil, perish by evil’. [10]
Answer :-Â The character of Macbeth exemplifies the adage that “those who do evil, perish by evil.” Throughout the play, Macbeth’s ruthless pursuit of power and willingness to commit heinous acts lead to his moral degradation and eventual downfall. Initially hailed as a brave and noble warrior, Macbeth’s ambition and desire for power prompt him to betray his king and fellow countrymen, committing regicide to seize the throne. However, this act of evil sets off a chain reaction of violence and bloodshed, as Macbeth’s paranoia and guilt drive him to commit further atrocities to maintain his grip on power. Despite his initial success, Macbeth’s reign is marked by turmoil and unrest, as his tyrannical rule alienates his subjects and provokes rebellion. Ultimately, Macbeth’s disregard for morality and justice results in his own demise, as he is defeated in battle and slain by Macduff. Thus, Macbeth’s tragic fate serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of succumbing to evil and forsaking one’s moral principles. [10]
(b) Give a character sketch of Banquo, paying particular attention to his encounter with the witches. [10]
Answer :-Â Banquo is portrayed as a noble and honorable character in the play, whose encounter with the witches serves as a pivotal moment in the plot. Initially, Banquo displays skepticism and caution towards the witches’ prophecies, recognizing the potential dangers associated with pursuing them. Unlike Macbeth, Banquo does not act on the witches’ predictions and instead maintains his loyalty to King Duncan and his principles. However, Banquo is intrigued by the prophecy that his descendants will inherit the throne, sparking his ambition for his lineage to achieve greatness. Despite this ambition, Banquo remains steadfast in his commitment to righteousness and refuses to compromise his integrity for personal gain. His moral integrity and foresight distinguish him from Macbeth, as he chooses not to pursue the path of treachery and deceit that leads to Macbeth’s downfall. Ultimately, Banquo’s character serves as a foil to Macbeth, highlighting the stark contrast between their moral compasses and the consequences of their actions. [10]
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