Discuss the character and relationship of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, up to the time when Duncan's death's discovered. .
Macbeth's name is first brought up by some witches in the first scene of the play. They talk amongst themselves and say that they will meet Macbeth after a battle.
1st Witch: Where the place?.
2nd Witch: Upon the heath.
3rd Witch: There to meet with Macbeth".
This first scene makes the reader think about whether Macbeth is evil and if he has made alliances with darkness. In Shakespeare's time, when this play would be shown in the theatres, the audience would be confused at this first scene, because they knew Macbeth as a heroic fighter and king from the 11th Century. Hearing his name from the witches would have stirred up some bewilderment. In the next scene, he is talked of in a very way.
A captain from the battle that Macbeth was fighting in, returns to Duncan, the king of Scotland. He reports back about the battles events, and with Ross, also praises Macbeth in his victory over the Norwegians.
"Till that Bellona's bridegroom, lapped in proof,.
Confirmed him (Thane Of Cawdor) with self-comparisons,.
Point against point, rebellious arm "gainst arm,.
Curbing his lavish spirit; and to conclude,.
The victory fell on us".
When the King is informed of this he complements Macbeth greatly and decides he should become the new Thane of Cawdor because of his fantastic victory and achievements. .
Act 1 Scene 3 returns to the witches from the beginning of the play. They are seen talking to each other, and bringing up many dark and evil spell-like phrases. When they see Macbeth arriving they hold hands and chant together. Macbeth is accompanied by Banquo, as they make their way to Forres, to report to the king. When Banquo sees the witches he is sceptical and not certain if they are human. The first things the witches say to Macbeth are prophecies, predictions for the future.
