Act 4 Discovery reading for Literary Techniques
Scene 1
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Plot summary: Macbeth seeks out the witches, and they witches prophesy further but leave
out details to set up Macbeth with “false security.” Then, Lennox tells Macbeth that
Macduff is raising an army against him. Line:_________
: 4 apparitions (see handout)
Literary terms:
1. Irony: “By the ____________________ of my thumbs, something wicked this way
comes.” Line: ______
Why is this ironic? (irony: when something is the opposite of what you would expect)
2. Imagery: The show of eight kings; ends with Banquo holding glass (glass = mirror)
Line:_____
Discuss in class the Meaning:
3. Foil: (Discuss in class the Meaning)
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Macbeth plans to kill Macduff’s wife and children in a surprise attack of the castle
Line:__________
Scene 2—Macduff’s castle
Plot summary: Assassins surprise and kill Macduff’s family at their castle.
1. Verbal irony: Lady Macduff’s speech with her son
2. Pathos: Great feeling. How has Shakespeare set this scene up with great pathos, so the
audience feels strong emotion?
Juxtaposition of Contrast: the powerful effect of two very different images side-by-side
Scene 3--
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Malcolm and Macduff discuss Scotland and Macbeth’s evil deeds there. (line:_______)
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Malcolm tests Macduff to see if he can be trusted. (line:______)
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Macduff learns that his family has been slaughtered. (line:_______)
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Malcolm resolves to work with Macduff to reclaim Scotland from Macbeth. (line:________)
Significant quotes: Look throughout Act 4 to find quotes that are significant.
Find at least 3 significant quotes.
How do you know if it is significant? IF it does one of the following--1. Gives an important insight about plot or characterization
2. Has a memorable structure, ie balanced line, that gives a meaning that has significance
not just within this scene but within the entire play.
3. Communicates an idea that is important to theme.
4. Is a paradox that gives an insight
5. Has a “ring” to it and shares a truth that transcends the play, giving a “real life insight.”
Quote
Act,
scene,
line
Why it is significant?