Now that we have explored Elizabethan beliefs in the supernatural, it’s time to examine how Shakespeare incorporated supernatural elements into Macbeth.
You are about to read Act I, Scene iii of Macbeth. In this scene, Macbeth has just won a victory over the rebel faction. The setting is a heath near the town of Forres, and there are five characters:
The three witches: These are eerie characters that are viewed as being allied with dark forces.
Macbeth: A Scottish general and the Thane of Glamis. In this scene, he is learning things he didn’t expect from the witches, and he is disturbed by what he learns.
Banquo: Banquo is also a soldier and a close friend of Macbeth’s. He is honest and upright, and is as amazed by the witches as Macbeth.
Click "Highlight It" to read Act I, Scene iii of Macbeth. As you read, ask yourself the following questions:
Highlight the text that helps you answer the prompt.