Question

Reread Scene iv, the final scene of Act II of The Tragedy of Macbeth. Then, explain how the Old Man’s conversation with Ross before Macduff enters the scene relates to earlier scenes in the play.

Answer 1

The conversation between the Old Man and Ross in Act II, Scene iv of 'The Tragedy of Macbeth' ties back to earlier events by reinforcing the theme of natural order disruption following Macbeth's regicide. It connects the unnatural events described by the Old Man to the rebellion against natural and moral order in Macbeth's actions and sets the stage for future turmoil in Scotland.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Old Man's conversation with Ross in Scene iv of Act II of The Tragedy of Macbeth provides a reflection on the unnatural events occurring alongside the political upheavals in Scotland. This dialogue serves as a thematic link to earlier scenes, emphasizing the disruption of the natural order and the moral chaos unleashed by Macbeth's regicide. The Old Man describes unnatural occurrences, like horses eating each other, which echo the defiance of natural order seen when Macbeth usurps the throne. The conversation foreshadows the continued instability and challenges to come, as those like Macduff begin to suspect the treachery behind Duncan's murder.

In referencing his own experiences, the Old Man implies that the current events surpass past horrors, signaling that Scotland is in the grip of unprecedented evil. This alludes to previous scenes, such as the witches' prophecies and Duncan bestowing the title of Cawdor on Macbeth, both of which hint at the coming turmoil. The thematic motif of good versus evil, natural versus unnatural, is woven throughout the dialogue, forming a continuous narrative thread from the opening to the tragic events unfolding in the play.

Answer 2

The conversation between Old man and Ross is very significant.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ross was Macduff’s cousin and while walking with an old man outside the castle they discussed the unusual and unnatural things that were happening from the past few days. They discussed how it was dark even during daytime, how an owl killed a falcon and also how Duncan’s horses were behaving wildly and ate one another. Macduff then came from the castle and informed them about Macbeth had been declared as the king.

The conversation between the Old Man and Ross depicts how world was reacting to Duncan's murder. It signifies that if something bad happens in one part of the world, the other part also gets affected. The old man’s remarks suggests that unnatural death of Duncan and Macbeth being declaed as king would have an adverse effect and Macbeth’s reign would ruin .