Question

Read this passage: MACBETH. He's here in double trust: First, as I am his kinsman and his subject, Strong both against the deed; then, as his host, Who should against his murderer shut the door, Not bear the knife myself. William Shakespeare, Macbeth, Act I, scene vii Which translation of the passage best explains Macbeth's reasoning for not murdering Duncan? A. Duncan will be too easy to kill because he is so trusting and believes everything people tell him. B. Duncan is a guest in my house and I should be protecting him, not harming him myself. C. People are happy to have Duncan remain as their king and will be upset if he is murdered. D. People will automatically suspect that I am the murderer because they know I want to be king.

Answer 1

Answer:

b) Duncan is a guest in my house and I should be protecting him, not harming him myself.

Explanation:

The translation of the passage from Act I, Scene VII, of "The Tragedy of Macbeth" by William Shakespeare, that best explains Macbeth's reasoning for not murdering Duncan is option b. These lines show that Macbeth is aware that the crime he intends to commit goes against loyalty and hospitality. He says that as subject to the King he cannot kill him because he owes him his loyalty. Secondly as his host, due to hospitality, he should care for his safety instead of killing him.