Final answer:
Macbeth's initial reaction to the witches in Act 1 is one of scepticism and intrigue, questioning their prophecies. By Act 2, he begins to acknowledge their influence, as he contemplates the moral implications of the 'supernatural soliciting' they have presented to him, indicating a shift towards internal conflict and acceptance.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the beginning of Act 1 of Shakespeare's Macbeth, Macbeth's attitude towards the witches is one of sceptical curiosity. He is intrigued by their prophecies, yet does not fully comprehend their potential impact or veracity. Macbeth refers to them as "imperfect speakers," questioning the source of their prophetic greetings and their bizarre appearance. At this point, although he is astonished by their revelation that he will become Thane of Cawdor, he finds the prospect of becoming the king beyond belief, highlighting his initial scepticism.
In contrast, by the time we reach Act 2, Macbeth's attitude towards the witches' prophecies appears to have evolved. His reflection that the supernatural temptations "Cannot be ill, cannot be good" suggests he begins to entertain their validity after becoming Thane of Cawdor, as predicted. Macbeth even acknowledges that the witches' revelations served as "happy prologues" to his burgeoning ambitions, hinting at a growing acceptance and internal conflict regarding the witches' influence on his future.