Read the excerpt from act 1, scene 3 of The Tragedy of Macbeth.Macbeth. [Aside.] Two truths are told,As happy prologues to the swelling actOf the imperial theme. [To ROSS and ANGUS.] I thank you, gentlemen.[Aside.] This supernatural solicitingCannot be ill, cannot be good; if ill,Why hath it given me earnest of success,Commencing in a truth? I am Thane of Cawdor:If good, why do I yield to that suggestionWhose horrid image doth unfix my hairAnd make my seated heart knock at my ribs,Against the use of nature? Present fearsAre less than horrible imaginings;My thought, whose murder yet is but fantastical,Shakes so my single state of man that functionIs smother’d in surmise, and nothing isBut what is not. Banquo. Look, how our partner’s rapt. Macbeth. [Aside.] If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me,Without my stir.
Answer
A
By analyzing the evidence of his battle victories, he determines that he has rightfully earned the title of thane of Cawdor.
B
By deliberating over the predictions of the three Weird Sisters, he reaches the conclusion that the sisters are trustworthy.
C
By evaluating the consequences of murder, he resolves to dismiss his thoughts of rising to the crown.
D
By rationalizing the Weird Sisters’ prophecies, he allows himself to contemplate the prospect of becoming king.
Explanation
Macbeth reflects that the Weird Sisters have already made two true predictions, including that he is Thane of Cawdor. Their accuracy makes him consider their prediction that he may become king, even though the thought of murder frightens him. He then reasons that if fate intends him to be king, it may happen without his taking action, so D, “By rationalizing the Weird Sisters’ prophecies, he allows himself to contemplate the prospect of becoming king,” is correct.
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