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_grsl
30/07/2025
English Literature
Macbeth act1,scence3 annotations
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30 Jul 2025
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_grsl
@_grsl
The Witches prophetic encounter in Macbeth Act 1, Scene 3... Show more
As Macbeth and Banquo encounter the witches, their reactions set the stage for their future trajectories. Banquo is immediately struck by the witches' appearance, describing them as "withered and so wild in their attire, / That look not like th'inhabitants o'th'earth."
Highlight: The description of the witches as neither clearly male nor female introduces the theme of gender ambiguity in Macbeth's witches scene, which challenges traditional Elizabethan gender roles.
The witches then deliver their famous prophecies to Macbeth:
Example: These three prophecies in Macbeth Act 1, Scene 3 represent Macbeth's past, present, and future, respectively. The first acknowledges his current title, the second reveals a title he's about to receive, and the third predicts his ultimate rise to power.
Banquo, curious about his own fate, receives a more cryptic prophecy: he will be "Lesser than Macbeth, and greater" and "Not so happy, yet much happier." Most significantly, the witches declare that Banquo will "get kings, though thou be none."
Definition: The term "get kings" means that Banquo's descendants will become kings, even though he himself will not.
Macbeth's reaction to the prophecies is one of shock and intrigue. He demands more information from the "imperfect speakers," revealing his immediate interest in the possibility of becoming king.
The witches vanish, leaving Macbeth and Banquo to ponder the meaning of their encounter. Their disappearance adds to the supernatural atmosphere, with Banquo remarking, "The earth hath bubbles, as the water has, / And these are of them."
Highlight: The sudden disappearance of the witches calls into question the reality of the encounter, a theme that will recur throughout the play as Macbeth grapples with the supernatural.
Macbeth's reaction to the prophecies is particularly telling. He is visibly shaken and begins to question the possibility of their fulfillment. His aside, "If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me / Without my stir," reveals his immediate consideration of the kingship, foreshadowing his future actions.
Quote: "If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me / Without my stir." This line demonstrates Macbeth's initial reluctance to act on the prophecy, but also his inability to dismiss it entirely.
The scene concludes with the arrival of Ross and Angus, who bring news that Macbeth has indeed been named Thane of Cawdor. This immediate fulfillment of one of the witches' prophecies serves to validate their words and deepen Macbeth's belief in their power.
Example: The news of Macbeth's new title as Thane of Cawdor is a pivotal moment in the witches' prophetic encounter in Macbeth Act 1. It lends credibility to their other predictions and sets Macbeth on his path to pursue the crown.
This scene sets the stage for Macbeth's tragic journey, introducing the supernatural elements and the seed of ambition that will drive the plot forward. The witches' prophecy in Macbeth becomes the catalyst for the play's central conflict, challenging notions of fate, free will, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
As the scene draws to a close, the full impact of the witches' prophecies begins to take shape. Macbeth's aside reveals his inner turmoil and the beginnings of his ambition:
"Two truths are told, As happy prologues to the swelling act Of the imperial theme."
Quote: This aside demonstrates Macbeth's growing belief in the witches' words and his consideration of the "imperial theme" - the possibility of becoming king.
Meanwhile, Banquo observes Macbeth's reaction with concern, noting, "Look, how our partner's rapt." This observation foreshadows the growing divide between Macbeth and Banquo, as they react differently to the supernatural encounter.
Highlight: Banquo's wariness contrasts with Macbeth's fascination, setting up their diverging paths and the eventual conflict between them.
The scene concludes with Macbeth contemplating the implications of the prophecies and the news of his new title. His final lines, "If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me / Without my stir," reveal his initial hesitation to act on the prophecy, but also his inability to dismiss it entirely.
This scene is crucial in establishing the supernatural elements that will drive the plot of Macbeth. The witches' prophetic encounter in Macbeth Act 1 sets in motion the tragic events that will unfold, challenging the characters' beliefs about fate, free will, and the nature of ambition.
Definition: The concept of "fate versus free will" is a central theme in Macbeth, as the characters grapple with whether their actions are predetermined by fate or the result of their own choices.
The analysis of supernatural elements in Macbeth Act 1, Scene 3 reveals how Shakespeare uses the witches to introduce ambiguity and moral complexity into the play. Their prophecies serve as a catalyst for Macbeth's ambition, blurring the lines between destiny and personal choice, and setting the stage for the tragic events to come.
Page 4: The Immediate Aftermath
The scene develops with Ross and Angus's arrival, confirming the first prophecy as truth when Macbeth is named Thane of Cawdor. This verification of the witches' prophecy Macbeth quote leads to deeper contemplation of their words.
Quote: "The instruments of darkness tell us truths; Win us with honest trifles, to betray's In deepest consequence."
Highlight: Banquo's warning about trusting supernatural prophecies serves as dramatic irony.
Act 1, Scene 3 of Macbeth opens on a heath with thunder, setting an eerie atmosphere for the entrance of the three witches. This scene is crucial in establishing the supernatural elements that will drive the plot forward.
The witches begin by discussing their recent activities, which include cursing a sailor whose wife offended one of them. Their dialogue is filled with malevolent intent and supernatural abilities, foreshadowing the dark events to come.
Highlight: The witches' ability to control winds and curse individuals demonstrates their supernatural power, which will play a significant role in influencing Macbeth's actions.
As they sense Macbeth's approach, the witches perform a ritualistic dance, chanting "The weird sisters, hand in hand, / Posters of the sea and land, / Thus do go, about, about, / Thrice to thine, and thrice to mine, / And thrice again, to make up nine." This incantation further emphasizes their mystical nature.
Vocabulary: "Weird sisters" is an archaic term for the Fates in Norse mythology, suggesting the witches' role in determining destiny.
The scene then shifts to the arrival of Macbeth and Banquo, fresh from battle. Macbeth's first line, "So foul and fair a day I have not seen," echoes the witches' earlier words, subtly linking him to their influence.
Quote: "So foul and fair a day I have not seen." This line foreshadows the duality that will characterize Macbeth's journey throughout the play.
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.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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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
_grsl
@_grsl
The Witches prophetic encounter in Macbeth Act 1, Scene 3 depicts a pivotal supernatural meeting on a heath where three witches deliver prophecies to Macbeth and Banquo, setting the play's tragic events in motion.
Key points:
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As Macbeth and Banquo encounter the witches, their reactions set the stage for their future trajectories. Banquo is immediately struck by the witches' appearance, describing them as "withered and so wild in their attire, / That look not like th'inhabitants o'th'earth."
Highlight: The description of the witches as neither clearly male nor female introduces the theme of gender ambiguity in Macbeth's witches scene, which challenges traditional Elizabethan gender roles.
The witches then deliver their famous prophecies to Macbeth:
Example: These three prophecies in Macbeth Act 1, Scene 3 represent Macbeth's past, present, and future, respectively. The first acknowledges his current title, the second reveals a title he's about to receive, and the third predicts his ultimate rise to power.
Banquo, curious about his own fate, receives a more cryptic prophecy: he will be "Lesser than Macbeth, and greater" and "Not so happy, yet much happier." Most significantly, the witches declare that Banquo will "get kings, though thou be none."
Definition: The term "get kings" means that Banquo's descendants will become kings, even though he himself will not.
Macbeth's reaction to the prophecies is one of shock and intrigue. He demands more information from the "imperfect speakers," revealing his immediate interest in the possibility of becoming king.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The witches vanish, leaving Macbeth and Banquo to ponder the meaning of their encounter. Their disappearance adds to the supernatural atmosphere, with Banquo remarking, "The earth hath bubbles, as the water has, / And these are of them."
Highlight: The sudden disappearance of the witches calls into question the reality of the encounter, a theme that will recur throughout the play as Macbeth grapples with the supernatural.
Macbeth's reaction to the prophecies is particularly telling. He is visibly shaken and begins to question the possibility of their fulfillment. His aside, "If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me / Without my stir," reveals his immediate consideration of the kingship, foreshadowing his future actions.
Quote: "If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me / Without my stir." This line demonstrates Macbeth's initial reluctance to act on the prophecy, but also his inability to dismiss it entirely.
The scene concludes with the arrival of Ross and Angus, who bring news that Macbeth has indeed been named Thane of Cawdor. This immediate fulfillment of one of the witches' prophecies serves to validate their words and deepen Macbeth's belief in their power.
Example: The news of Macbeth's new title as Thane of Cawdor is a pivotal moment in the witches' prophetic encounter in Macbeth Act 1. It lends credibility to their other predictions and sets Macbeth on his path to pursue the crown.
This scene sets the stage for Macbeth's tragic journey, introducing the supernatural elements and the seed of ambition that will drive the plot forward. The witches' prophecy in Macbeth becomes the catalyst for the play's central conflict, challenging notions of fate, free will, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
As the scene draws to a close, the full impact of the witches' prophecies begins to take shape. Macbeth's aside reveals his inner turmoil and the beginnings of his ambition:
"Two truths are told, As happy prologues to the swelling act Of the imperial theme."
Quote: This aside demonstrates Macbeth's growing belief in the witches' words and his consideration of the "imperial theme" - the possibility of becoming king.
Meanwhile, Banquo observes Macbeth's reaction with concern, noting, "Look, how our partner's rapt." This observation foreshadows the growing divide between Macbeth and Banquo, as they react differently to the supernatural encounter.
Highlight: Banquo's wariness contrasts with Macbeth's fascination, setting up their diverging paths and the eventual conflict between them.
The scene concludes with Macbeth contemplating the implications of the prophecies and the news of his new title. His final lines, "If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me / Without my stir," reveal his initial hesitation to act on the prophecy, but also his inability to dismiss it entirely.
This scene is crucial in establishing the supernatural elements that will drive the plot of Macbeth. The witches' prophetic encounter in Macbeth Act 1 sets in motion the tragic events that will unfold, challenging the characters' beliefs about fate, free will, and the nature of ambition.
Definition: The concept of "fate versus free will" is a central theme in Macbeth, as the characters grapple with whether their actions are predetermined by fate or the result of their own choices.
The analysis of supernatural elements in Macbeth Act 1, Scene 3 reveals how Shakespeare uses the witches to introduce ambiguity and moral complexity into the play. Their prophecies serve as a catalyst for Macbeth's ambition, blurring the lines between destiny and personal choice, and setting the stage for the tragic events to come.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 4: The Immediate Aftermath
The scene develops with Ross and Angus's arrival, confirming the first prophecy as truth when Macbeth is named Thane of Cawdor. This verification of the witches' prophecy Macbeth quote leads to deeper contemplation of their words.
Quote: "The instruments of darkness tell us truths; Win us with honest trifles, to betray's In deepest consequence."
Highlight: Banquo's warning about trusting supernatural prophecies serves as dramatic irony.
Act 1, Scene 3 of Macbeth opens on a heath with thunder, setting an eerie atmosphere for the entrance of the three witches. This scene is crucial in establishing the supernatural elements that will drive the plot forward.
The witches begin by discussing their recent activities, which include cursing a sailor whose wife offended one of them. Their dialogue is filled with malevolent intent and supernatural abilities, foreshadowing the dark events to come.
Highlight: The witches' ability to control winds and curse individuals demonstrates their supernatural power, which will play a significant role in influencing Macbeth's actions.
As they sense Macbeth's approach, the witches perform a ritualistic dance, chanting "The weird sisters, hand in hand, / Posters of the sea and land, / Thus do go, about, about, / Thrice to thine, and thrice to mine, / And thrice again, to make up nine." This incantation further emphasizes their mystical nature.
Vocabulary: "Weird sisters" is an archaic term for the Fates in Norse mythology, suggesting the witches' role in determining destiny.
The scene then shifts to the arrival of Macbeth and Banquo, fresh from battle. Macbeth's first line, "So foul and fair a day I have not seen," echoes the witches' earlier words, subtly linking him to their influence.
Quote: "So foul and fair a day I have not seen." This line foreshadows the duality that will characterize Macbeth's journey throughout the play.
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.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
App Store
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