Wiches

Question 1

‘Graymalkin’ and ‘Paddock’ (1,1).

Answer 1

These are a cat and a toad. People believed that witches had animal helpers to help them do their wicked deeds.
Shakespeare relates to these characters to show the audience that they are wicked creatures.

Question 2

‘their masters’

Answer 2

The spirits that the witches conjure (make appear by magic) are ‘their masters’. This shows that supernatural beings or creatures control them.

Question 3

‘weird sisters’

Answer 3

This is another term by which the witches are called. This term has roots in classical mythology: the three ‘wyrd’ sisters were the fates, who knew men’s destinies.

Question 4

‘Stay, you imperfect speakers. Tell me more.’ (1,3)

Answer 4

This quote shows Macbeth ordering the witches to stay, but they disappear.
When the witches speak with Macbeth and Banquo, they only give them a little information.