Meet Macbeth

How is Macbeth introduced through in/direct characterization?
-Within the first ACT there are several instances in which we the readers are given clues via both direct and indirect characterization. Prior to the Macbeth's first appearance on stage a quote from the witches begins Macbeth's characterization.
What elements of foreshadowing do the witches provide?
-If you are at all familiar with the play "Macbeth" the witches' spells, speech, or whatever you want to call it definitely provide some interesting clues as to the plot. The first huge foreshadow of things to come resides in line 11 of ACT I scene 1 with the words, "Fair is foul, and foul is fair." These six words really set the tone for the play and action to come. They imply that things are not exactly right in the world of the play and at the same time begin to set the tone of the play. The witches return again in ACT I scene 3 right before Macbeth and Banquo enter again after the battle. The First Witch says that, "A sailor's wife had chestnuts in her lap..." which is most likely a foreshadow to the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in which Lady Macbeth for lack of a better term, wears the pants in the relationship.
How does Shakespeare's approach to exposition give the reader background information about the setting and characters and a sense of what's to come without spoiling the play?
-The first ACT is almost pure exposition. We get the traditional exposition and laing the background for what's to come, but even further Shakespeare alludes to history. This play was first written and performed for the King who was a descendent of one of the play's characters (Banquo I believe). And because Shakespeare always knew his intended audience he expects the audience to already be familiar with the story of Macbeth from a historical standpoint.
How does Shakespeare's characterization of Macbeth reflect a sense of tone (i.e., the author's attitude toward the character/s, audience, and/or subject matter)?
-Right off the bat the reader gets a sense of the dark and almost morose tone that is going to play a large factor within the performance of the play. The idea of "Foul is fair, and fair is foul..." brings that idea home. In terms of the characterization of Macbeth