"Macbeth": Summary and Analysis of Acts I-IV

Act 1 Scene 1 Summary: The three witches gather, and discuss what they should do about Macbeth. They conclude when they will meet with Macbeth. Significance: This scene introduces Macbeth and the witches. It also brings forth the quote "Fair is foul, and foul is fair" which sets the stage for much of the story and how the characters will react. This quote defines the "flip-flopped" standing that much of the characters will partake in. Act 1 Scene 2 …

…Malcolm discusses what the true nature of a good kingship should be, and Macbeth's is the farthest from that. As Malcolm tests Macduff, he realizes that Macduff does know the true meaning of a good kingship and supports it. An alliance has begun to form and the final straw was broken with the news that Macduff's family was slain. The alliance is now in a do or die situation, and die is not an option.