Question 12 • English 2 Sem 2 (10013400) BCPS 2025-26
Read the excerpt from act 4, scene 3 of The Tragedy of Macbeth. Malcolm is explaining to Macduff that the time has come do something about Macbeth.Malcolm. This tune goes manly.Come, go we to the king; our power is ready;Our lack is nothing but our leave; MacbethIs ripe for shaking, and the powers abovePut on their instruments. Receive what cheer you may:The night is long that never finds the day.
Answer
A
It implies that the reign of Macbeth will finally be over when the sun rises.
B
It suggests that oppressive times will continue until Macbeth is dethroned.
C
It highlights that each person must make amends with Macbeth and move on.
D
It suggests that the only happiness available is in siding with Macbeth.
Explanation
The “night” represents the dark, oppressive period under Macbeth, while “day” represents the hope and freedom that can follow. Malcolm says Macbeth is “ripe for shaking” and that their forces are ready, suggesting that the oppression will end when they act to dethrone him. So the line suggests that hard times continue until Macbeth is removed.
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