Sets a dramatic and eerie tone with lightning and thunder.
Three witches, known as the Weird Sisters, agree to meet Macbeth after a battle.
They utter the famous paradox: "Fair is foul, and foul is fair," suggesting the play's central theme of appearance vs. reality.
The supernatural and ominous atmosphere is established, foreshadowing events in the play.
Scene 2: Reports of Battle
Scotland is at war against rebels (led by MacDonwald) and an invading Norwegian army (led by King Swaino).
King Duncan receives news of Macbeth and Banquo's bravery and victory.
Macbeth kills MacDonwald; Macbeth and Banquo defeat the Norwegians.
Thane of Cawdor is revealed as a traitor; Duncan orders his execution and grants the title to Macbeth.
Key Quote: Macbeth is described as "disdaining fortune," hinting at themes of fate and free will.
Scene 3: The Witches' Prophecies
The witches reappear and give prophecies to Macbeth and Banquo.
Macbeth will be Thane of Cawdor and king.
Banquo's descendants will be kings, though he won't.
Part of the prophecy comes true immediately as Macbeth is named Thane of Cawdor.
Macbeth ponders whether to let fate make him king or take action.
Key Quote: "If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me, without my stir."
Scene 4: Succession and Ambition
Duncan names his son Malcolm as Prince of Cumberland, a stepping stone to kingship.
Macbeth sees Malcolm as an obstacle to becoming king.
Macbeth's ambition is revealed in his aside: "Stars, hide your fires. Let not light see my black and deep desires."
The theme of guilt and the contrast between light and dark are introduced.
Scene 5: Lady Macbeth's Ambition
Lady Macbeth reads Macbeth's letter about the witches.
She doubts Macbeth's resolve and calls upon spirits to "unsex" her so she can commit cruel deeds.
Lady Macbeth plans to manipulate Macbeth to murder Duncan.
Key Quote: Lady Macbeth asks to be filled "with direst cruelty."
Scene 6: Duncan's Arrival
Duncan arrives at Macbeth's castle, praising the pleasant atmosphere.
Dramatic irony as the audience knows the castle is to be his place of death.
Lady Macbeth warmly welcomes Duncan, appearing duplicitous.
Scene 7: Macbeth's Doubt and Lady Macbeth's Manipulation
Macbeth contemplates the murder, concerned about consequences and his "vaulting ambition."
Lady Macbeth scolds him for his hesitation, challenges his masculinity, and reveals the murder plan.
The plan involves drugging Duncan’s guards and framing them.
Lady Macbeth's manipulation is evident; she is portrayed as more ambitious and ruthless.
Key Quote: Lady Macbeth’s willingness to commit horrific acts to fulfill her ambition.
Themes and Motifs
Paradox and Contradiction: "Fair is foul, and foul is fair."
Ambition vs. Morality: Macbeth's struggle with his desires.
Fate and Free Will: Macbeth's consideration of fate and action.
Appearance vs. Reality: Lady Macbeth's dual nature.
Guilt and Consequence: Macbeth's internal conflict.
Conclusion
The act sets the stage for the central conflict: Macbeth’s moral struggle and the influence of ambition. The tension builds as the Macbeths plan Duncan's murder, with Lady Macbeth as the driving force behind the plot.