The Prophecies That Change Everything
Here come the three life-changing prophecies: Thane of Glamis (true now), Thane of Cawdor (confusing), and King (impossible). The witches address past, present, and future in three neat packages.
Banquo's sharp observation - "why do you start, and seem to fear / Things that do sound so fair?" - reveals that Macbeth's reaction isn't pure joy. He's scared, which suggests these prophecies have struck something deep inside him.
While Macbeth stands there "rapt" (completely absorbed), Banquo wants his own fortune told. His request shows he's curious but not desperate like Macbeth - he "neither begs nor fears" their predictions.
Dramatic technique: The prophecies work because one is true, one seems impossible but will come true, making the third (kingship) suddenly seem possible too.