ENGLISH LITERATURE (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -Macbeth purposefully keeps his plot against Duncan from his wife. Duncan announces that he has chosen Ross to be the next king. Although he has the ambition to become king, Macbeth verbalizes many good reasons not to kill King Duncan. “Fair is foul, and foul is fair, ” is said by the Witches.

Detailed explanation-2: -Macduff had gone to seek Malcolm (one of Duncan’s sons who fled) at the court of the English king. Malcolm is young and unsure of himself, but Macduff, pained with grief, persuades him to lead an army against Macbeth.

Detailed explanation-3: -By killing Duncan, Macbeth risks his own life. The punishment for regicide is death. If he is found out, his own armies might turn against him, leaving him defenseless. Moreover, there is his honor to consider.

Detailed explanation-4: -Duncan is his king and guest; and he is a good man. He will not go through with the plan. Lady Macbeth calls him a coward, and repeatedly attacks his masculinity. She shocks Macbeth into action by saying that, had she sworn to kill her child, she would dash its brains against a wall rather than break her oath.

Detailed explanation-5: -Lady Macbeth persuades Macbeth to kill the king using three arguments. First, she emphasizes the rewards Macbeth will gain by killing the king. He will assume the throne, gaining all the power and privileges currently held by Duncan. Second, she minimizes the potential risks of their plan.