ENGLISH LITERATURE (CBSE/UGC NET)

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FAMOUS PLAYWRIGHT POET AND OTHERS

MACBETH

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
In Act II, Scene 1, Banquo says to Fleance:“A heavy summons lies like lead upon me, / And yet I would not sleep. Merciful powers, / Restrain in me the cursed thoughts that nature/ Give way to in repose.” What does this most likely mean?
A
He is not tired at all because of his cursed thoughts.
B
He is very tired, and also can’t sleep because of what the witches predicted.
C
He is not very tired and expects to sleep well through the night.
D
He is very tired but a curse was put on him that won’t let him sleep.
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -"a heavy summons lies like lead upon me” This simile shows how the witches prophecy has weighed on Banquo’s mind. He is a good character and therefore this is startling to the audience, who would not have expected him to be affected by the idea of prospering, due to his actions throughout act 1.

Detailed explanation-2: -Significance: Banquo cannot sleep because he is having bad dreams, so he prays to angels to help him combat bad dreams. Macbeth cannot murder Duncan while Banquo is awake so he goes and talks to Banquo.

Detailed explanation-3: -What is the significance of Banquo’s talk with Fleance in Scene I? Reminds audience of prophecy of the witches which said that Banquo’s sons will be kings. Scene also accompanied by dark imagery as the lights are all out of the castle.

Detailed explanation-4: -Banquo and his son Fleance are taking an after dinner walk.]

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