Question 13 • English 2 Sem 2 (10013400) BCPS 2025-26
Read the excerpt from act 5, scene 1 of The Tragedy of Macbeth. The doctor and a gentlewoman are discussing Lady Macbeth’s sleepwalking. A new stage direction has been added to describe the doctor’s actions.Doctor. I have two nights watched with you, but can perceive no truth in your report. When was it she last walked?Gentlewoman. Since his majesty went into the field, I have seen her rise from her bed, throw her night-gown upon her, unlock her closet, take forth paper, fold it, write upon’t, read it, afterwards seal it, and again return to bed; yet all this while in a most fast sleep.Doctor. [Looking pensive and writing on a notepad.] A great perturbation in nature, to receive at once the benefit of sleep, and do the effects of watching! In this slumbery agitation, besides her walking and other actual performances, what, at any time, have you heard her say?
Answer
A
The doctor is concerned about misinterpreting the gentlewoman’s words.
B
The doctor is doubtful that the gentlewoman has seen what she claims.
C
The doctor is committed to understanding Lady Macbeth’s condition.
D
The doctor is skeptical that Lady Macbeth is unwell.
Explanation
The doctor watches Lady Macbeth and records his observations while thinking carefully about her behavior. His pensive note-taking suggests he is trying to understand and assess her condition, rather than dismissing her as unwell. The best choice is “The doctor is committed to understanding Lady Macbeth’s condition.”
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