Question

Sc. 1, Lines 71–104: Explain how the state directions and dialogue further the action of the plot. Compare the nature of the First Murderer’s dialogue to Macbeth’s.

Answer 1

Stage directions and dialogue in the play 'Macbeth' contribute to plot progression and character development. Macbeth's dialogue reveals his guilt and moral conflict post-murder, whereas the First Murderer's dialogue and Lady Macbeth's responses are more pragmatic, showcasing a contrast in depth of emotion and moral engagement.

Step-by-step explanation:

To answer the question, stage directions and dialogue in a play are pivotal in advancing the plot and developing the characters. In Macbeth, the dialogue sheds light on Macbeth's psychological turmoil and moral decline. For instance, when Macbeth exclaims, “Methought I heard a voice cry 'Sleep no more! Macbeth does murder sleep'”, the audience can sense his overwhelming guilt and descent into paranoia following Duncan's murder. The repetition of 'sleep no more' emphasizes his tormented state, unable to find peace. In contrast, the First Murderer's dialogue is more straightforward and focused on the practical aspects of the act of murder, revealing a lack of the same depth of moral conflict that Macbeth experiences.

Comparatively, Lady Macbeth's use of dialogue, such as when she tells Macbeth to “Go get some water, And wash this filthy witness from your hand”, demonstrates her practical approach to the aftermath of the crime and her initial lack of remorse, which is a stark contrast to Macbeth's distress. These dialogues not only further the action but also offer insights into the character's inner workings, building tension and development throughout the plot. The use of dialogue in plays differs from novels, where actions and thoughts are often narrated; here actors interpret actions based on the dialogue, imbuing it with their own emotions and reactions to bring the characters to life.

Answer 2

This act is devoted to the second great crime of Macbeth's career, the murder of Banquo. The first scene shows us Banquo's suspicions of Macbeth, and Macbeth's fears of Banquo. As a result of the witches' prediction the two old friends are wholly estranged, although outwardly they preserve the forms of a gracious king and a loyal subject. Macbeth's dialogue with the murderers at the close of the scene informs us of the fate that is hanging over Banquo's head. The scene is laid at the palace some time after the coronation of Macbeth.

1-10. This speech shows Banquo in a wholly different mood from that in which we last saw him. Then he declared that he placed his trust in God and stood opposed to all the designs of treason. Now, although he strongly suspects Macbeth of the treacherous murder of Duncan, he makes no threat of vengeance, but rather broods over the prophecy of the witches that his descendants shall reign, and hopes that this prophecy too may be made good. In other words, he is paltering with evil; he is not yet ready to take any step to hasten the fulfilment of the prediction, but he is content to serve the murderer and usurper in the hope that some profit may come out of it to him and his house. Perhaps if Banquo had lived he would have headed a revolt against Macbeth. This monologue of his at least explains and in part justifies Macbeth's fears.