I'm looking to simply answer these questions on Macbeth. Problem is, I really honestly don't understand the entire book.
1. Explain the significance of the pre-murder sililoquy which beings, "Is this a dagger I see before me "(II.i.30)?
2. Provide a quotation which reveals Macbeth's reaction to the murder of Duncan, and comment on what suggests about Macbeth's mental state
3. Briefly summarize the plans of Malcolm and Donalbain after their father's murder. What are the two most significant results of the plans?
5. "Come thick night and pall thee in the dunnest smoke of hell." This is one of the many cloaking images (of hiding, disguise, subterfuge) in the play. Using another example, comment on the effect of these images on our understanding of the play and/or character.
Thanks.
Here's the best website I've found to help students read Shakespeare's plays:
http://nfs.sparknotes.com/
Click on the title of the play you want, then click on the act and scene. You'll find original Shakespearean language on the left and a modern-day "translation" on the right.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Here are several other really good websites about Shakespeare and his works and his times. Be sure to add ALL THESE to your favorites so you can find them again.
http://shakespeare.palomar.edu/
http://www.shakespeare-online.com/
http://www.bardweb.net/
http://www.enotes.com/william-shakespeare/
http://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/
For explanations of particular scenes, soliloquys, etc., use this one.
Also invest in No Fear Shakespeare! Can be bought at Barnes and Noble for about $5. Side by side text plus translation. Very helpful.
1. In order to understand the significance of the pre-murder soliloquy in Macbeth, you need to analyze the context and symbolism involved. First, the soliloquy occurs in Act II, Scene i, when Macbeth is contemplating whether to carry out the murder of King Duncan. The soliloquy begins with the famous line, "Is this a dagger I see before me?"
To answer the question, start by examining the content of the soliloquy. Macbeth hallucinates a dagger floating in front of him, which he cannot touch. This represents the internal struggle within Macbeth's mind. The dagger symbolizes his desire and ambition to take the throne, while the fact that it is "unfixed" and "bloody" suggests the immoral and violent nature of his thoughts.
The significance of this soliloquy lies in the fact that it reveals Macbeth's state of mind before committing regicide. It showcases his increasing guilt, paranoia, and inner turmoil as he contemplates the act of murdering Duncan. It also foreshadows the bloody path that Macbeth will follow throughout the play.
2. To find a quotation that reveals Macbeth's reaction to the murder of Duncan, you need to refer to the text. In Act II, Scene ii, immediately after committing the murder, Macbeth is filled with guilt and remorse. One relevant quotation is when he says, "This is a sorry sight" (II.ii.20).
This line suggests that Macbeth is immediately regretting his actions and is deeply affected by the sight of the murdered king. It reflects his mental state, which is overwhelmed by guilt and haunted by his conscience.
3. To summarize the plans of Malcolm and Donalbain after their father's murder, refer to Act II, Scene iii. Both brothers decide to flee Scotland to ensure their own safety, as they suspect that they might be in danger as potential successors to the throne. Malcolm heads to England, while Donalbain goes to Ireland.
The two most significant results of their plans are:
- Their departure raises suspicion among the other characters, particularly Macbeth. It reinforces the notion that they might have been involved in their father's murder, which further fuels Macbeth's paranoia.
- Their absence allows Macbeth to seize the throne unopposed. With Duncan dead and his sons gone, Macbeth becomes the uncontested king of Scotland.
4. The quotation "Come thick night and pall thee in the dunnest smoke of hell" is from Act I, Scene v, where Lady Macbeth is calling upon the forces of darkness to hide her murderous intent and commit evil deeds.
An example of another cloaking image in the play is when Macbeth says, "False face must hide what the false heart doth know" (I.vii.82). This line refers to Macbeth's need to conceal his true intentions and present a façade of loyalty and innocence.
These cloaking images, including hiding, disguise, and subterfuge, create a sense of deception and concealment throughout the play. They contribute to our understanding of the characters' psychological state, their nefarious actions, and the pervasive atmosphere of treachery. The images highlight the characters' struggle with their true identities and the consequences of their deceptive behavior. It also emphasizes the theme of appearance versus reality, as characters often hide their true intentions beneath a deceptive exterior.