Mac Beth Summary Act I

Act I * Scene 1 * Scene 2 * Scene 3 * Scene 4 * Scene 5 * Scene 6 * Scene 7 Scene I The scene opens with three witches entering an open plain. Thunder and lightning surround them, as the first witch asks of the other witches, "When shall we three meet again? In thunder, lightning, or in rain?" (lines 1-2). The second witch replies that they will meet "when the hurlyburly's done, when the battle's lost and won." (lines 3-4), and the third witch says that "…

…finally says, "I am settled, and bend up / Each corporal agent to this terrible feat" (lines 79 - 81), but take note that he said "terrible", meaning that deep down he knows it's wrong. Macbeth finishes with, "False face must hide what the false heart doth know" (line 82), exactly what Lady Macbeth wants him to say (referring to the masks). She has him wrapped around her fingers; at least she does now. Back to table of contents