Question

The Porter's scene, or the "knocking at the gate scene," is frequently debated by scholars, but most agree it is a typical scene of comic relief often found in Shakespeare's plays. Why do you think a scene of comic relief has been placed in this particular part of the play? What is its purpose? Why are the Porter's lines in prose rather than poetry? What lines contain the bawdy humor often found in these scenes?

a) The scene provides a lighthearted break after a series of intense events and introduces humor to balance the tragedy. The Porter's lines are in prose to contrast with the noble characters' poetry. The bawdy humor can be seen in the lines where the Porter makes sexual innuendos.
b) The scene serves to confuse the audience and disrupt the play's flow. The Porter's lines are in prose to emphasize his low social status. The bawdy humor is present throughout the scene.
c) The scene serves as a transition to a more serious part of the play, providing a moment of relief. The Porter's lines are in prose to show his simplicity. The bawdy humor is absent in this scene.
d) The scene is meant to provide deep philosophical insights into the play's themes. The Porter's lines are in prose for clarity. The bawdy humor is a distraction from the play's main themes.

Answer 1

Porter's scene in Macbeth functions as comic relief, using prose and bawdy humour to provide a break from tragedy and reflect on underlying themes. Porter's lines contrast with the noble characters' speech and inject levity into the play.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Porter's scene in Shakespeare's plays often serves as a form of comic relief, and its placement in Macbeth is intentional. After a series of intense events, such as the murder of King Duncan, this scene provides the audience with a much-needed respite. It resets the emotional atmosphere, offering levity and contrast to the tension that has built up. The scene also serves as a reflection on the themes of equivocation and the portrayal of the 'porter of hell's gate' as a parallel to Macbeth's castle after the heinous deed. The choice to have Porter speak in prose rather than iambic pentameter is meant to highlight his lower social status and create a distinct voice from the noble characters. The bawdy humour is exemplified in Porter's innuendo-laden lines, such as his references to drinking and its effect on sexual prowess.

As for the correct option from the provided choices, it would be (a): The scene provides a lighthearted break after a series of intense events and introduces humor to balance the tragedy. The Porter's lines are in prose to contrast with the noble characters' poetry. The bawdy humour can be seen in the lines where Porter makes sexual innuendos.