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.

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.

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.

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.

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.