Macbeth Act V Study Questions

Macbeth
Act V
Guided Reading Questions
Act V, Scene 1
 Why does the gentlewoman refuse to repeat what Lady Macbeth has been
saying?
 Why does Lady Macbeth demand to have a light by her side at all times (both
literally and figuratively)?
 What other physical action is Lady Macbeth attempting to do in this scene?
 In all of her mutterings, what is Lady Macbeth actually SAYING?
 At the end of the scene, what is the doctor’s biggest worry concerning Lady
Macbeth?
Act V, Scene 2
 Where will the Scottish rebels meet the English forces that are led by Malcolm?
 What is a hint that Macbeth knows that he is in trouble?
 What are the rumors that are floating around about Macbeth?

Act V, Scene 3
 What action (or inaction) illustrates the fact that Macbeth is losing control?
Act V, Scene 4
 What order does Malcolm give to help camouflage the troops? From the top of
the hill, what will this look like?
Act V, Scene 5
 How does Macbeth react to the news of Lady Macbeth’s suicide?
 When Macbeth receives the report that the woods appear to be moving over the
hill, what does he vow?
Act V, Scene 7
 How does Macbeth react to the death of Young Siward?
 What news does Siward report concerning the soldiers inside the castle?
Act V, Scene 8
 When Macbeth first encounters Macduff, what does he tell him?
 What news does Macduff deliver that is the final blow to Macbeth’s confidence?
 What happens to Macbeth? Be VERY specific.
 Who is proclaimed king? What are his first two orders?