1. Why does Shakespeare open the play by showing the witches? What theme or themes may the play be exploring by introducing elements of the supernatural early?

2. What is LadyMacbeth's reaction to the prophesy that her husband would become king? What does Lady Macbeth fear about her husband's personality? What is the meaning of the phrase "milk of human kindness"?

3. Macbethand LadyMacbethseem hesitant to use the term "murder." What various different terms (in Act 1, scene 7 and Act 2, scene 2) do they use to name the crime before and after acting it out? Why?

4. What are ways (dialogue and actions) in whichShakespeare builds tension in Act II, scene 2?

5. At which steps isMacbethoperating out of fate (spurred by the supernatural) and at which steps is he acting of his own free will? Is he always ultimately the one responsible for his actions?