Open the App

Subjects

3,303

11 Feb 2026

5 pages

Macbeth Act 1 Scene 3 Annotations PDF and Summary

R

rana

@mrvdmr

Act 1 Scene 3 of Macbethunfolds on a heath... Show more

Page 1
Page 2
Page 3
Page 4
Page 5
1 / 5

<p>In this scene, the three witches discuss their recent activities. One of them says she has been killing swine, while another mentions a

The Prophecies and Macbeth's Arrival

As Macbeth and Banquo approach, the witches prepare for their momentous encounter. This section contains the crucial prophecies that drive the play's action.

Quote: "So foul and fair a day I have not seen."

Highlight: The witches deliver three key prophecies to Macbeth: Thane of Glamis (which he already is), Thane of Cawdor, and future king.

Definition: "Weird Sisters" - The three witches, derived from the Old English word "wyrd" meaning fate or destiny.

The scene showcases Macbeth's immediate interest in the prophecies, while Banquo maintains a more cautious approach.


<p>In this scene, the three witches discuss their recent activities. One of them says she has been killing swine, while another mentions a

Banquo's Prophecies and Initial Reactions

This section details Banquo's prophecies and both men's immediate responses to the supernatural encounter.

Quote: "Lesser than Macbeth, and greater. Not so happy, yet much happier."

Highlight: Banquo receives the prophecy that his descendants will be kings, though he will not.

The contrasting reactions between Macbeth and Banquo are significant - Macbeth appears immediately invested in the prophecies, while Banquo remains skeptical.


<p>In this scene, the three witches discuss their recent activities. One of them says she has been killing swine, while another mentions a

Confirmation and Consequences

The scene's conclusion brings immediate partial fulfillment of the witches' prophecies through Ross and Angus's arrival.

Quote: "The king hath happily received, Macbeth, The news of thy success"

Highlight: The news of Macbeth becoming Thane of Cawdor begins to validate the witches' prophecies.

This section sets up the dramatic tension that will drive the rest of the play, as Macbeth begins to contemplate the possibility of kingship.


<p>In this scene, the three witches discuss their recent activities. One of them says she has been killing swine, while another mentions a

Page 4: Confirmation of Prophecy

The arrival of Ross and Angus brings news that confirms the witches' first prophecy, as Macbeth is named Thane of Cawdor.

Quote: "What, can the devil speak true?"

Highlight: The scene demonstrates how truth can be used by evil forces to manipulate others.

Example: The previous Thane of Cawdor's treason serves as a parallel to Macbeth's future betrayal.


<p>In this scene, the three witches discuss their recent activities. One of them says she has been killing swine, while another mentions a

Opening of Act 1 Scene 3: The Witches' Meeting

The scene opens with a thunderous atmosphere, demonstrating Shakespeare's use of pathetic fallacy in Macbeth Act 1 Scene 3. The three witches gather to share their recent malevolent activities.

Quote: "A sailor's wife had chestnuts in her lap / And munched, and munched, and munched. 'Give me', quoth I."

Highlight: The First Witch's tale of revenge against a sailor's wife demonstrates the witches' petty cruelty and supernatural powers.

Vocabulary: "Aroint thee" - An archaic phrase meaning "get away from me"

The witches' dialogue establishes their supernatural abilities and malicious nature through their plans to torment a sailor whose wife offended one of them.



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 Language

Most popular content

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.6/5

App Store

4.7/5

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 Knowunity AI. 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 Knowunity AI. 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

 

English Language

3,303

11 Feb 2026

5 pages

Macbeth Act 1 Scene 3 Annotations PDF and Summary

R

rana

@mrvdmr

Act 1 Scene 3 of Macbethunfolds on a heath where the three witches meet Macbeth and Banquo, delivering crucial prophecies that set the play's tragic events in motion. The scene masterfully combines supernatural elements with human ambition, featuring the... Show more


<p>In this scene, the three witches discuss their recent activities. One of them says she has been killing swine, while another mentions a

Sign 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

The Prophecies and Macbeth's Arrival

As Macbeth and Banquo approach, the witches prepare for their momentous encounter. This section contains the crucial prophecies that drive the play's action.

Quote: "So foul and fair a day I have not seen."

Highlight: The witches deliver three key prophecies to Macbeth: Thane of Glamis (which he already is), Thane of Cawdor, and future king.

Definition: "Weird Sisters" - The three witches, derived from the Old English word "wyrd" meaning fate or destiny.

The scene showcases Macbeth's immediate interest in the prophecies, while Banquo maintains a more cautious approach.


<p>In this scene, the three witches discuss their recent activities. One of them says she has been killing swine, while another mentions a

Sign 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

Banquo's Prophecies and Initial Reactions

This section details Banquo's prophecies and both men's immediate responses to the supernatural encounter.

Quote: "Lesser than Macbeth, and greater. Not so happy, yet much happier."

Highlight: Banquo receives the prophecy that his descendants will be kings, though he will not.

The contrasting reactions between Macbeth and Banquo are significant - Macbeth appears immediately invested in the prophecies, while Banquo remains skeptical.


<p>In this scene, the three witches discuss their recent activities. One of them says she has been killing swine, while another mentions a

Sign 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

Confirmation and Consequences

The scene's conclusion brings immediate partial fulfillment of the witches' prophecies through Ross and Angus's arrival.

Quote: "The king hath happily received, Macbeth, The news of thy success"

Highlight: The news of Macbeth becoming Thane of Cawdor begins to validate the witches' prophecies.

This section sets up the dramatic tension that will drive the rest of the play, as Macbeth begins to contemplate the possibility of kingship.


<p>In this scene, the three witches discuss their recent activities. One of them says she has been killing swine, while another mentions a

Sign 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

Page 4: Confirmation of Prophecy

The arrival of Ross and Angus brings news that confirms the witches' first prophecy, as Macbeth is named Thane of Cawdor.

Quote: "What, can the devil speak true?"

Highlight: The scene demonstrates how truth can be used by evil forces to manipulate others.

Example: The previous Thane of Cawdor's treason serves as a parallel to Macbeth's future betrayal.


<p>In this scene, the three witches discuss their recent activities. One of them says she has been killing swine, while another mentions a

Sign 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

Opening of Act 1 Scene 3: The Witches' Meeting

The scene opens with a thunderous atmosphere, demonstrating Shakespeare's use of pathetic fallacy in Macbeth Act 1 Scene 3. The three witches gather to share their recent malevolent activities.

Quote: "A sailor's wife had chestnuts in her lap / And munched, and munched, and munched. 'Give me', quoth I."

Highlight: The First Witch's tale of revenge against a sailor's wife demonstrates the witches' petty cruelty and supernatural powers.

Vocabulary: "Aroint thee" - An archaic phrase meaning "get away from me"

The witches' dialogue establishes their supernatural abilities and malicious nature through their plans to torment a sailor whose wife offended one of them.

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.

52

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Gothic Literature Phases

Explore the key conventions, characters, and historical phases of Gothic literature, including the impact of the Enlightenment, Romanticism, and Victorian periods. This summary delves into themes of power, constraint, and the supernatural, featuring notable works like 'The Woman in Black', 'Dracula', and 'Frankenstein'.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
12

Love and Control in Poetry

Explore the themes of love and manipulation in 'Porphyria's Lover' and 'The Farmer's Bride'. This comparative analysis highlights how both poems depict romantic relationships filled with passion that ultimately succumb to control and dominance. Key concepts include the portrayal of male power, emotional vulnerability, and the destructive nature of love. Ideal for students studying poetry and relationships.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
9

Poverty in A Christmas Carol

Explore the themes of poverty and social injustice in 'A Christmas Carol' through the lens of the Industrial Revolution, Malthusian theories, and Victorian workhouses. This summary highlights the stark contrast between Scrooge's wealth and the struggles of the Cratchit family, emphasizing the harsh realities of child labor and economic exploitation during this era.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
11

Poverty & Responsibility in Dickens

Explore the themes of poverty and social responsibility in 'A Christmas Carol' through a detailed mindmap. This study note delves into Scrooge's transformation, the Cratchit family's struggles, and Dickens's critique of wealth disparity. Key concepts include the impact of poverty, the importance of compassion, and the moral obligations of the wealthy. Ideal for students studying literature and social themes.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
11

Automated Frustration in 'Please Hold'

Explore a critical analysis of the poem 'Please Hold' by Ciaran O'Driscoll, which delves into themes of automation, frustration, and the depersonalization of modern communication. This analysis highlights the poem's use of repetition, tone, and imagery to convey the speaker's emotional turmoil during an automated phone call. Ideal for students studying poetry and its societal implications.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
12

Keats' Autumn Analysis

Explore John Keats' poem 'To Autumn' through detailed annotations and thematic analysis. This study note delves into the rich imagery, emotional depth, and the interplay of nature and time in Keats' work. Key themes include the acceptance of change, the beauty of the season, and the melancholy of life's transience. Ideal for students studying Romantic poetry.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
11

Most popular content: Macbeth

Most popular content in English Language

Most popular content

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.6/5

App Store

4.7/5

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 Knowunity AI. 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 Knowunity AI. 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