Read the excerpt from act 1, scene 3 of The Tragedy of Macbeth.Macbeth. [Aside.] Two truths are told,As happy prologues to the swelling actOf the imperial theme. [To ROSS and ANGUS.] I thank you, gentlemen.[Aside.] This supernatural solicitingCannot be ill, cannot be good; if ill,Why hath it given me earnest of success,Commencing in a truth? I am Thane of Cawdor:If good, why do I yield to that suggestionWhose horrid image doth unfix my hairAnd make my seated heart knock at my ribs,Against the use of nature? Present fearsAre less than horrible imaginings;My thought, whose murder yet is but fantastical,Shakes so my single state of man that functionIs smother’d in surmise, and nothing isBut what is not. Banquo. Look, how our partner’s rapt. Macbeth. [Aside.] If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me,Without my stir.
Answer
A
By analyzing the evidence of his battle victories, he determines that he has rightfully earned the title of thane of Cawdor.
B
By deliberating over the predictions of the three Weird Sisters, he reaches the conclusion that the sisters are trustworthy.
C
By evaluating the consequences of murder, he resolves to dismiss his thoughts of rising to the crown.
D
By rationalizing the Weird Sisters’ prophecies, he allows himself to contemplate the prospect of becoming king.