Question

In Act 1, Scene 3, Macbeth and Banquo have just won a great battle for King Duncan and are traveling to the king’s castle at Forres. Along the way, they meet the witches. What does the stage direction describing "lightning, thunder, and the sound of whirling wind" most contribute to the scene?

a) The stormy weather creates an ominous mood as Macbeth and Banquo see the witches.
b) The stormy weather creates an angry mood as Macbeth and Banquo talk about the battle.
c) The stormy weather suggests that Forres is a dangerous place.
d) The stormy weather implies that Macbeth and Banquo are in a hurry.

Answer 1

The stage direction of 'lightning, thunder, and the sound of whirling wind' in Act 1, Scene 3 of Macbeth contributes to the scene by creating an ominous mood as Macbeth and Banquo see the witches.

Step-by-step explanation:

The stage direction describing 'lightning, thunder, and the sound of whirling wind' most contributes to the scene by creating an ominous mood as Macbeth and Banquo see the witches. The stormy weather in Act 1, Scene 3 of Macbeth suggests that something dark and mysterious is about to happen.

It sets the tone for the appearance of the witches and foreshadows the evil and chaos that will follow.