ACT/SCENE | EVENTS | CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT/QUOTES | THEME(S) | Act one, Scene two | The valiant and worthy Macbeth is established in two reports of different battles delivered to King Duncan. | The King is very grateful for his hero’s works/ | Heroism | | Then Thane of Cawdor, a traitor, has been captured. | | Gratitude | | Duncan orders that the traitor be executed and that his title be given to Macbeth in recognition of his heroic efforts. | | |
ACT/SCENE | EVENTS | CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT/QUOTES | THEME(S) | Act one, Scene three | The battle is done and the witches meet with Macbeth again | Macbeth becomes Thane of Cawdor and begins to think about how he will become king. | Supernatural | | They predict that Macbeth will be Thane of Cawdor and King as well as Thane of Glamis and that Banquo will be father to a line of kings. | Banquo believes it’s all just coincidence and thinks nothing of it and hopes Macbeth will too. | Greed | | Ross and Angus arrive with news that Macbeth is the new Thane of Cawdor, thus fulfilling the first of the prophecies. | | Loyalty |
ACT/SCENE | EVENTS | CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT/QUOTES | THEME(S) | Act one, Scene four | Duncan hears how nobly the traitor Cawdor died. | Macbeth now appears resolved to act to hasten his fulfilment of the Weird Sister’s prophecies. | Greed | | Macbeth and Banquo arrive and are greeted warmly by the gracious king. | The king wishes to celebrate with his hero as he trusts him. | | | Duncan proclaims his son Malcolm heir to the throne and announces his intention to visit Macbeth’s castle. | | | | Macbeth