Final answer:
These excerpts are from Shakespeare's 'Macbeth', where Ross plays a pivotal role in conveying the state of Scotland and its noble affairs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The excerpts provided come from William Shakespeare's tragedy Macbeth, a play that centers around the themes of ambition, power, and betrayal. The character Ross serves as a Scottish nobleman who delivers news of Scotland's affairs throughout the play. In the excerpts, we observe Ross informing characters such as Duncan and Macbeth about important events, including battles and noble titles, hinting at the critical role that communication plays within the play.
Ross's dialogue with Lady Macduff and his cousin Macduff also emphasizes the turbulent state of Scotland, as they discuss the effects of Macbeth's ascension to power and the political and social upheaval that follows. The frequent transitions of Ross between different locations such as Fife, Scone, and the king's presence indicate the rapid movement of news and the interconnectedness of the characters' fates in the unfolding tragedy.