Name: _____________________
Question Guide for Macbeth Act 3, Scenes 2 & 3
Scene 2
1. What does Lady Macbeth mean when she says, “’Tis safer to be which we destroy/ Than by
destruction dwell in doubtful joy”? (page 91, lines 8-9)
2. Does Lady Macbeth follow her own advice about forgetting about Duncan’s murder? Why or why
not?
3. Explain lines 18-25 in your own words.
4. According to Macbeth, is there anything worse than killing Duncan? Why or why not?
5. What warning does Macbeth give to his wife?
6. Why is it bad for them if Banquo and Fleance live?
7. Why doesn’t Macbeth tell his wife the plan he has set for Banquo and Fleance?
8. Explain “Things bad begun make strong themselves by ill.” (page 95, line 62)
Scene 3
9. Do the murderers succeed in killing both men?
10. Explain the significance behind the name Fleance.