Macbeth Act 1 Scene 1 analysissets the eerie tone... Show more
Biology
SociologySign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
1,690
•
21 Dec 2025
•
Macbeth Act 1 Scene 1 Annotations with Witches and Questions
E
Evie x
@eviex_qqzl
Act 1, Scene 1 - The Witches: Setting the Stage for Tragedy
Shakespeare's Macbeth Act 1 Scene 1 opens on a desolate heath amidst thunder and lightning, immediately establishing an ominous atmosphere. Three witches appear, discussing their next meeting and mentioning Macbeth for the first time. This scene is crucial in setting the tone for the entire play and introducing supernatural elements that will drive the plot forward.
The witches' dialogue is filled with foreboding and mystery. They speak in rhyming couplets, creating a chant-like quality that enhances their otherworldly nature. Their conversation reveals that they plan to meet again after a battle, "When the hurlyburly's done, When the battle's lost and won," suggesting their knowledge of future events and their intention to involve themselves in the affairs of mortals, particularly Macbeth.
Vocabulary: Hurlyburly - A term meaning uproar or tumult, often used to describe the confusion of battle.
The scene employs pathetic fallacy, using the stormy weather to reflect the turbulent and dark events to come. This technique would have resonated strongly with a Jacobean audience, who believed in the connection between natural phenomena and supernatural occurrences.
Highlight: The witches' familiars, Graymalkin (a cat) and Paddock (a toad), are mentioned, further emphasizing their status as practitioners of dark magic. These animal companions would have been recognized by Shakespeare's audience as signs of witchcraft.
The witches' language is deliberately paradoxical and confusing. Their final lines, "Fair is foul, and foul is fair: Hover through the fog and filthy air," introduce a central theme of the play - the blurring of good and evil, appearance and reality. This paradox foreshadows the moral ambiguity that will plague Macbeth throughout the tragedy.
Quote: "Fair is foul, and foul is fair: Hover through the fog and filthy air."
For a contemporary Jacobean audience, this opening scene would have been particularly chilling. Belief in witchcraft was widespread, and the presence of witches on stage would have immediately signaled danger and evil to viewers. The rhythmic, chant-like quality of the witches' speech adds to the sense of otherworldliness and magical incantation.
The scene concludes with questions for further analysis, encouraging readers to delve deeper into the significance of the witches' appearance, their language, and the mood established in this opening scene. These questions prompt consideration of the historical context, the use of literary devices, and the overall impact on the audience, both contemporary and modern.
Example: The use of rhyming couplets in the witches' speech, such as "When shall we three meet again / In thunder, lightning, or in rain?" creates a memorable, incantatory effect that sets their dialogue apart from normal speech.
This opening scene of Macbeth Act 1 effectively sets the stage for the tragedy to unfold, introducing key themes, supernatural elements, and the ominous atmosphere that will pervade the entire play. It serves as a powerful hook, drawing the audience into the dark and mysterious world of Macbeth.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Macbeth
Most popular content in English Literature
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Macbeth Act 1 Scene 1 Annotations with Witches and Questions
E
Evie x
@eviex_qqzl
Macbeth Act 1 Scene 1 analysis sets the eerie tone for Shakespeare's tragedy, introducing the three witches and their ominous plans. This opening scene establishes the supernatural elements and foreshadows the chaos to come.
- The witches plan to meet Macbeth... Show more
Act 1, Scene 1 - The Witches: Setting the Stage for Tragedy
Shakespeare's Macbeth Act 1 Scene 1 opens on a desolate heath amidst thunder and lightning, immediately establishing an ominous atmosphere. Three witches appear, discussing their next meeting and mentioning Macbeth for the first time. This scene is crucial in setting the tone for the entire play and introducing supernatural elements that will drive the plot forward.
The witches' dialogue is filled with foreboding and mystery. They speak in rhyming couplets, creating a chant-like quality that enhances their otherworldly nature. Their conversation reveals that they plan to meet again after a battle, "When the hurlyburly's done, When the battle's lost and won," suggesting their knowledge of future events and their intention to involve themselves in the affairs of mortals, particularly Macbeth.
Vocabulary: Hurlyburly - A term meaning uproar or tumult, often used to describe the confusion of battle.
The scene employs pathetic fallacy, using the stormy weather to reflect the turbulent and dark events to come. This technique would have resonated strongly with a Jacobean audience, who believed in the connection between natural phenomena and supernatural occurrences.
Highlight: The witches' familiars, Graymalkin (a cat) and Paddock (a toad), are mentioned, further emphasizing their status as practitioners of dark magic. These animal companions would have been recognized by Shakespeare's audience as signs of witchcraft.
The witches' language is deliberately paradoxical and confusing. Their final lines, "Fair is foul, and foul is fair: Hover through the fog and filthy air," introduce a central theme of the play - the blurring of good and evil, appearance and reality. This paradox foreshadows the moral ambiguity that will plague Macbeth throughout the tragedy.
Quote: "Fair is foul, and foul is fair: Hover through the fog and filthy air."
For a contemporary Jacobean audience, this opening scene would have been particularly chilling. Belief in witchcraft was widespread, and the presence of witches on stage would have immediately signaled danger and evil to viewers. The rhythmic, chant-like quality of the witches' speech adds to the sense of otherworldliness and magical incantation.
The scene concludes with questions for further analysis, encouraging readers to delve deeper into the significance of the witches' appearance, their language, and the mood established in this opening scene. These questions prompt consideration of the historical context, the use of literary devices, and the overall impact on the audience, both contemporary and modern.
Example: The use of rhyming couplets in the witches' speech, such as "When shall we three meet again / In thunder, lightning, or in rain?" creates a memorable, incantatory effect that sets their dialogue apart from normal speech.
This opening scene of Macbeth Act 1 effectively sets the stage for the tragedy to unfold, introducing key themes, supernatural elements, and the ominous atmosphere that will pervade the entire play. It serves as a powerful hook, drawing the audience into the dark and mysterious world of Macbeth.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
23
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Similar content
Mr Birling's Character Evolution
This analytical essay delves into Mr Birling's character development in 'An Inspector Calls', highlighting his transformation from a self-assured capitalist to a vulnerable figure facing moral scrutiny. Key themes include individualism vs. collective responsibility, the impact of social class, and the consequences of hubris. Ideal for students seeking to understand character dynamics and thematic elements in Priestley's work.
English Literature10
Death's Role in Romeo and Juliet
Explore the pervasive theme of death in Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet'. This analysis delves into how death serves as a catalyst for change, foreshadows tragedy, and highlights the fragility of love amidst the backdrop of an ancient family feud. Key concepts include the inevitability of death, the impact of fate, and the consequences of extreme love. Ideal for students studying literature and drama.
English Literature10
A Christmas Carol Insights
Explore key quotes and summaries from each stave of 'A Christmas Carol.' This study note delves into Scrooge's transformation, the significance of Tiny Tim, and the themes of redemption, family, and poverty. Perfect for understanding Dickens' message and character development.
English Literature10
Gerald Croft Analysis
Explore the character of Gerald Croft in J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls'. This analysis delves into his relationships, class privilege, and gender dynamics, highlighting key quotes and their implications. Understand how Gerald's actions reflect societal attitudes towards responsibility and the treatment of women. Ideal for literature students studying character development and thematic elements.
English Literature10
Macbeth: Themes and Analysis
Explore the intricate themes of ambition, morality, and the supernatural in Shakespeare's 'Macbeth'. This revision booklet covers key concepts such as Lady Macbeth's guilt, the impact of the Gunpowder Plot, and the dynamics of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth's relationship. Ideal for students preparing for exams, it includes character analyses, significant quotations, and thematic discussions to enhance understanding of this classic tragedy.
English Literature11
Tragic Themes in Romeo and Juliet
Explore the intricate themes of love, conflict, and family in Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet'. This summary delves into character dynamics, key plot points, and the tragic consequences of the Montague-Capulet feud. Ideal for English literature students seeking a deeper understanding of the play's emotional and thematic layers.
English Literature9
Most popular content: Macbeth
Most popular content in English Literature
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user