Act I summary: » We are introduced to the witches –

there is a sense of foreboding

Scene One
Setting up the play for the
conflict by revealing
characters and their traits
» We hear Macbeth’s name mentioned,
but there is no further explanation
» But the play is named after this
character, so we know he’s important
» We are introduced to the fragility of
Scotland (politically)

» We meet King Duncan just off of the

Act I summary: battlefield
Scene Two » We are introduced to the idea of
Macbeth & his skill, importance &
bravery in fighting for the crown
» We are given background about the
play (the context)
» Macdonwald (Thane of Cawdor)
betrayed the king by helping the Irish
rebels, because he was power hungry
» Eerily foreboding…
» Duncan declares Macbeth will be Thane
of Cawdor & sends Ross to deliver the
news to Macbeth
 » The witches appear again
Act I summary: » We are informed about all of the terrible things
Scene Three witches have done to other people
» We meet Macbeth and Banquo, both of whom
question the witches’ existence
» The witches address Macbeth by 3 titles:
Glamis, Cawdor and King
» Here they make their first prophecies
» They also prophesize that Banquo’s sons will be
kings
» Ross & Angus enter to deliver the news that
Macbeth has been named Thane of Cawdor,
confirming the prophecy
» Macbeth talks to himself & starts revealing his
ambition
» Soliloquy

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» The play moves to King Duncan’s castle

Act I summary:
» Malcom (Duncan’s son) confirms that
Scene Four the traitorous thane of Cawdor has been
executed
» Macbeth & Banquo arrive, and the king
congratulates them on their victory
» Macbeth, admirably yet sneakily, says
that it was his duty as a loyal thane…
» Duncan announces that Malcom will be
titled ‘Prince of Cumberland’ and his
successor to the throne
» Which presents an obstacle on
Macbeth’s course to be king…

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 » We finally meet the infamous Lady Macbeth
Act I summary: » She is reading a letter from Macbeth, which
Scene Five informs her of his victory and the prophecies
» Shows the equality in the relationship – equal
power, equal respect
» We also get to see the darker side to this
Scottish lady: she will do anything, including
casting aside her femininity, to help her
husband realise his ambition & fulfil the
prophecy
» An attendant informs her that Duncan will be
coming to stay
» Macbeth returns, and the couple discuss the
possible courses of action (murder…)

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