Purpose of Act 4 Scene 1 in Macbeth?

Question

What is the purpose of act 4 scene one in the play Macbeth? And in what ways does each phrophecey encourage a sense of false security in Macbeth?

Answer 1

This scene is trying to set up Macbeth for his ultimate demise. The prophecy tells Macbeth that a forest will move and a man not born of a woman will kill him. These are ridiculous until the end of the play. After the prophecy, Macbeth feels invincible, prompting his aggression. Try using Sparknotes if this doesn't help.

Answer 2

So now you've asked questions about Act IV, scene i, and Act IV, scene ii...are you just going to work your way through the entire play?

It's a good play; you ought to give it a read sometime.

Answer 3

To show tht the witches were evil and should not be trusted. When the witches leave, Banquo states: The earth hath bubbles, as the water has. And these are of them. (Meaning that the witches are bad)