Question

In Act IV, Scene I of Macbeth, the witches present Macbeth with a series of apparitions that deliver prophecies. What is the significance of the third apparition, and how does it influence Macbeth's actions later in the play?

• A. The third apparition is a crowned child holding a tree, which signifies that Macbeth will never be defeated until Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane Hill. This prophecy gives Macbeth a false sense of security, as he believes such an event is impossible, leading him to underestimate the threat posed by Malcolm's forces.
• B. The third apparition is a bloody child, which signifies that no man born of a woman will harm Macbeth. This prophecy emboldens Macbeth, making him overconfident and dismissive of potential threats, as he interprets it to mean he is invincible.
• C. The third apparition is an armed head, which warns Macbeth to beware Macduff. This prophecy directly influences Macbeth to order the murder of Macduff's family, although he ultimately fails to eliminate Macduff himself
• D. The third apparition is a line of eight kings, with the last king holding a mirror. This apparition signifies the continuation of Banquo's lineage, unsettling Macbeth as it reaffirms the witches' initial prophecy that Banquo's descendants will inherit the throne

Answer 1

Answer:

A. The third apparition is a crowned child holding a tree, which signifies that Macbeth will never be defeated until Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane Hill. This prophecy gives Macbeth a false sense of security, as he believes such an event is impossible, leading him to underestimate the threat posed by Malcolm's forces.

• In Act IV, Scene I, Macbeth visits the witches to learn more about his future. The third apparition is a crowned child carrying a tree, who tells Macbeth, "Macbeth shall never vanquish'd be until / Great Birnam Wood to high Dunsinane Hill / Shall come against him."

• This prophecy is meant to be deeply ironic. Macbeth interprets the apparition's message literally, concluding that he is invincible. He believes that a forest cannot physically move, so he has nothing to fear. This belief solidifies his false sense of security, making him utterly overconfident and reckless.