Curated set · answers marked
At the start of the play, what title does King Duncan give to Macbeth in recognition of his courage in battle?
Rationale
King Duncan grants Macbeth the title of Thane of Cawdor after the previous thane is declared a traitor. This honor, which aligns with the witches' first prophecy, begins to ignite Macbeth's ambition.
At the start of the play, which title does King Duncan give to Macbeth as a reward for his bravery in battle?
Rationale
King Duncan grants Macbeth the title of Thane of Cawdor after the former titleholder is executed for treason. This honor, along with the witches' prophecy predicting that he would become Thane of Cawdor, ignites Macbeth's ambition for the throne.
What do the Three Witches foretell about Banquo in their prophecies at the start of Macbeth?
Rationale
In Act I, Scene 3, the witches tell Banquo that he is "lesser than Macbeth, and greater," "not so happy, yet much happier," and that he shall "get kings, though thou be none." This prophecy hints at Banquo's murder and the later appearance of his ghost, as well as Macbeth's growing paranoia about Banquo's descendants.