ENGLISH LITERATURE (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -Macduff is a loyal thane in Duncan’s service. Unlike the treasonous Macbeth, Macduff is completely loyal to Duncan and his son Malcolm. He discovers Duncan’s body, and he soon becomes suspicious of Macbeth. Fearing Macbeth’s vengeance, he flees to England to support Malcolm in his assault on Macbeth.

Detailed explanation-2: -Malcolm voices that he thinks Macduff might be Macbeth’s agent to lure him back to Scotland and to his death. It is impossible to tell by a man’s appearance whether he is good or evil. Macbeth was once thought honest-and was loved even by Macduff. Macduff now looks honest, but might not be.

Detailed explanation-3: -Banquo becomes suspicious of Macbeth and believes that the witches’ prophecies have come true due to foul play. Macbeth becomes fearful of Banquo and orders two murderers to kill him and Fleance. 1.

Detailed explanation-4: -Malcolm is suspicious of Macduff because, as he says, ‘He hath not touched you yet’ (line 14), meaning that Macbeth has not injured Macduff (note Shakespeare’s use of dramatic irony here, given the circumstances of the preceding scene).