Notes on Macbeth Act 1, Scene 1 Translation

Overview

• The scene is set with thunder and lightning, indicating a dark and ominous atmosphere.
• Three witches enter the scene and engage in a conversation.

Dialogue

First Witch

• Questions when they will meet again, suggesting possible weather conditions: thunder, lightning, or rain.

Second Witch

• Replies they will meet when chaos is over, when battles are lost and won.

Third Witch

• States this meeting will occur before sunset.

Place of Meeting

• The first witch asks where they will meet.
• The second witch answers they will meet on the heath.
• The third witch reveals they will meet Macbeth there.

Familiars

• First Witch calls to her familiar, a cat named Graymalkin.
• Second Witch is called by her familiar, a toad named Paddock.
• Third Witch acknowledges the call of her familiar, indicating she will be there soon.

Famous Line

• All witches chant together: "Fair is foul, and foul is fair," symbolizing the theme of the play where appearances can be deceiving.
• They conclude the chant by stating they will fly off through the fog and filthy air.

Scene Closure

• The witches exit the scene.

Themes and Motifs

• Weather and Setting: The stormy weather sets a foreboding tone.
• Chaos and Duality: The conversation alludes to chaos and duality, as reflected in the battles and the chant "Fair is foul, and foul is fair."
• Witchcraft and the Supernatural: The presence of the witches and their familiars introduces the supernatural elements early in the play.
• Foreshadowing Macbeth: The mention of meeting Macbeth foreshadows his involvement with the witches and the pivotal role they will play in his fate.