Read the excerpt from act 4, scene 1 of The Tragedy of Macbeth. Macbeth goes to the witches to ask them about his future. They call up an apparition, or ghost, who tells Macbeth to beware of Macduff. They then call up a second apparition, who also speaks to Macbeth.Second Apparition. Be bloody, bold, and resolute; laugh to scornThe power of man, for none of woman bornShall harm Macbeth.[Second Apparition descends.]Macbeth. Then live, Macduff: what need I fear of thee?But yet I’ll make assurance double sure,And take a bond of fate: thou shalt not live;That I may tell pale-hearted fear it lies,And sleep in spite of thunder.
Answer
A
Macbeth’s realization that he has nothing to fear.
B
Macbeth’s decision to kill Macduff for reassurance.
C
the Second Apparition’s description of Macbeth’s manner.
D
the Second Apparition’s statement that no one can hurt Macbeth.
Explanation
The Second Apparition says that no one “of woman born” will harm Macbeth, so Macbeth briefly thinks he can let Macduff live. But he then says he will “make assurance double sure” and declares that Macduff “shalt not live.” This shows Macbeth deciding to kill Macduff to reassure himself, even after hearing the prophecy.
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