Act IV questions

Read up to Act 4, scene 3 and answer the questions below. Include a line number!

Act IV Comprehension Questions

4.1

1. Explain the irony of the witches’ statement that “Something wicked this way comes”.

2. Summarize the 3 apparitions. What effect does each one have on Macbeth? How do any of these effects confirm the message of Hecate’s speech in III.v?

4.2

3. In what significant ways does the murder of Macduff’s family differ from Macbeth’s previous crimes?

4.3

4. How does Malcolm test Macduff’s loyalty? How does this action establish Malcolm as a foil to his late father and why is this significant?

5. What is Malcolm’s advice to Macduff upon receiving the news of his family’s murder?