Summary
# Lennox's account of the kingdom's state and defiance of Macbeth
### Core idea
* The kingdom's state is characterized by growing unease and suspicion under Macbeth's rule, leading to defiance and opposition [26](#page=26).
* Lennox, along with other nobles, expresses implicit criticism and observes the disturbing changes in Scotland [26](#page=26).
### Key facts
* The initial battle was won by Macbeth and Banquo against Norway, with the Thane of Cawdor as a traitor [11](#page=11) [12](#page=12).
* The Thane of Cawdor is executed for treason [12](#page=12).
* Macbeth is proclaimed Thane of Cawdor, fulfilling one of the witches' prophecies [12](#page=12) [16](#page=16).
* King Duncan announces his eldest son, Malcolm, as the Prince of Cumberland, a step in the succession [20](#page=20).
* Macbeth interprets Malcolm's proclamation as an obstacle to his own ambition to be king [20](#page=20).
* Lady Macbeth receives Macbeth's letter detailing the witches' prophecies and the new title of Thane of Cawdor [21](#page=21).
* Lady Macbeth fears Macbeth's nature is too full of "milk of human kindness" to seize the crown [21](#page=21).
* King Duncan arrives at Macbeth's castle in Inverness, unaware of the plot against him [21](#page=21) [23](#page=23).
* Macbeth contemplates the assassination of Duncan but is held back by his conscience and Duncan's virtues [25](#page=25) [26](#page=26).
* Lady Macbeth challenges Macbeth's courage and masculinity to push him towards murder [26](#page=26).
### Key concepts
* **Prophecy and ambition:** The witches' prophecies ignite Macbeth's ambition, which is further fueled by the title of Thane of Cawdor [15](#page=15) [21](#page=21).
* **Deception and appearance:** Characters adopt deceptive appearances to mask their true intentions, notably Lady Macbeth's advice to "Look like th’ innocent flower, / But be the serpent under ’t." [23](#page=23).
* **Moral conflict:** Macbeth experiences significant internal conflict regarding the morality of assassinating Duncan, weighing his ambition against his loyalty and Duncan's character [25](#page=25) [26](#page=26).
* **Role of women in ambition:** Lady Macbeth actively manipulates Macbeth, using his ambition and pride against his moral reservations [21](#page=21) [22](#page=22) [26](#page=26).
* **Divine right of kings vs. ambition:** Duncan represents the divinely appointed king, whose virtues are seen as a shield, while Macbeth's ambition challenges this order [25](#page=25).
### Implications
* The initial presentation of Scotland under Duncan is one of order and valor, juxtaposed with the growing darkness of Macbeth's ambition [10](#page=10) [11](#page=11).
* The awarding of the Thane of Cawdor title to Macbeth, a traitor's title, foreshadows Macbeth's own downfall [12](#page=12) [16](#page=16).
* The explicit mention of Malcolm as Prince of Cumberland sets up the future succession struggle and Macbeth's primary target [20](#page=20).
* Lady Macbeth's invocation of spirits to "unsex me here" signifies her rejection of traditional feminine roles to enable the planned murder [22](#page=22).
* Macbeth's internal struggle highlights the corrupting influence of ambition and the difficulty of acting on dark desires [25](#page=25) [26](#page=26).
---
* Macbeth's reign is characterized by widespread suspicion, fear, and unnatural events, indicating a kingdom in turmoil [41](#page=41) [42](#page=42).
* The unnatural occurrences mirror the unnaturalness of Macbeth's ascension and rule, signifying a disordered state [41](#page=41).
* Despite the overt signs of distress, Macbeth maintains a facade of kingship and hosts feasts, masking the underlying decay [44](#page=44) [45](#page=45).
* The night of Duncan's murder was exceptionally violent, with storms, owls shrieking, and strange screams of death heard [37](#page=37).
* Natural order is disrupted: a falcon is killed by an owl, and Duncan's horses become wild and eat each other [41](#page=41) [42](#page=42).
* The death of Duncan is widely perceived as a "most sacrilegious murder" [37](#page=37).
* Macbeth claims to have killed Duncan's chamberlains in a fit of "violent love" and "fury" for their suspected involvement [39](#page=39).
* Malcolm and Donalbain, Duncan's sons, flee the country, suspecting that "daggers in men's smiles" and the "near in blood" pose a threat [40](#page=40) [41](#page=41).
* Macbeth is proclaimed as the successor and is going to Scone to be invested as king [42](#page=42).
* Banquo suspects Macbeth of foul play in achieving his titles and fears for his own lineage's future [44](#page=44).
* Macbeth is deeply fearful of Banquo and his prophecy of fathering kings, leading him to plot Banquo's death [46](#page=46).
* Macbeth hires murderers to kill Banquo and his son Fleance, fearing Banquo's "royalty of nature" [46](#page=46) [48](#page=48).
* Macbeth believes that the death of Banquo and Fleance will secure his own reign and secure the prophecy of his lineage [49](#page=49).
* **Divine Right of Kings:** The unnatural events signify a violation of the natural and divine order, reflecting the illegitimacy of Macbeth's rule [37](#page=37) [41](#page=41).
* **Appearance vs. Reality:** Macbeth and Lady Macbeth maintain a show of normalcy and hospitality while engaging in murder and conspiracy [28](#page=28) [45](#page=45).
* **Paranoia and Fear:** Macbeth's increasing paranoia, particularly regarding Banquo, drives his actions to consolidate power [46](#page=46).
* **Fate and Free Will:** The conflict between the witches' prophecies and the characters' choices, especially Macbeth's, is central to the unfolding tragedy [46](#page=46).
* The widespread unnatural events create an atmosphere of unease and foreboding throughout Scotland [37](#page=37) [41](#page=41).
* The sons' flight and Macbeth's quick accession sow seeds of doubt and suspicion about the true killer [42](#page=42).
* Macbeth's increasing reliance on violence and deception to maintain power suggests a descent into tyranny [46](#page=46) [48](#page=48).
* The kingdom's state under Macbeth implies a breakdown of trust and social order [40](#page=40).
### Common pitfalls
* Misinterpreting the porter scene as purely comic relief, ignoring its thematic significance regarding hell and equivocation [35](#page=35).
* Overlooking the subtle defiance and suspicion shown by characters like Banquo and Macduff in the face of Macbeth's rule [36](#page=36) [42](#page=42).
---
## Macbeth's paranoia and the order for Banquo's murder
* Macbeth's growing paranoia and fear center on Banquo and his potential heirs, leading him to plot Banquo's assassination and Fleance's death [50](#page=50).
* This paranoia is fueled by the witches' prophecy that Banquo's descendants will be kings, directly challenging Macbeth's own reign [50](#page=50).
* Macbeth orders the murder of Banquo and Fleance to secure his lineage, demonstrating his increasing ruthlessness [51](#page=51).
* Macbeth expresses that he and Lady Macbeth have "scorched the snake, not killed it," referring to Duncan's murder, and that their "poor malice" remains in danger [50](#page=50).
* He laments the "terrible dreams that shake us nightly" and feels that "better be with the dead" than live in "restless ecstasy" of fear [50](#page=50).
* Macbeth instructs Lady Macbeth to be cheerful and to "present him eminence" to Banquo, while internally noting the need to disguise their true feelings [50](#page=50).
* He states, "O, full of scorpions is my mind, dear wife! Thou know’st that Banquo and his Fleance lives." [50](#page=50).
* Macbeth tells Lady Macbeth that "Things bad begun make strong themselves by ill." [51](#page=51).
* Three murderers are hired by Macbeth to kill Banquo and Fleance [51](#page=51).
* Banquo and Fleance are attacked; Banquo is killed, but Fleance escapes [52](#page=52).
* Macbeth's internal conflict and psychological distress are highlighted by his comparison of his mind to being "full of scorpions." [50](#page=50).
* The concept of "making our faces vizards to our hearts" signifies the act of deception and hiding true intentions [50](#page=50).
* The escape of Fleance is crucial, as it preserves the lineage prophesied to rule, leaving Macbeth's future still threatened [52](#page=52).
* Macbeth's decision to eliminate Banquo and Fleance is a proactive measure to prevent future challenges to his kingship [51](#page=51).
* The failure to kill Fleance means the prophecy concerning Banquo's heirs remains a significant threat to Macbeth [52](#page=52).
* Macbeth's paranoia escalates, demonstrating a descent into tyranny driven by fear rather than secure power. [50-52](#page=50-52)
* The success of the murder plot, despite Fleance's escape, emboldens Macbeth to continue down a path of violence [52](#page=52).
- > **Tip:** Pay close attention to Macbeth's dialogue about his "mind" and "dreams"; these reveal his deteriorating mental state and the psychological cost of his actions
## The banquet scene and Banquo's ghost
* Macbeth's paranoia manifests during a royal banquet when he hallucinates and sees the ghost of Banquo, causing a scene and revealing his guilt to the assembled guests. [54-55](#page=54-55)
* Lady Macbeth attempts to cover for Macbeth's erratic behavior, attributing it to a recurring illness from his youth, but the disruption deeply unsettles the court. [55-57](#page=55-57)
* Macbeth hosts a banquet where he is meant to "mingle with society and play the humble host." [53](#page=53).
* A murderer informs Macbeth that Banquo is dead, but Fleance has escaped [53](#page=53).
* Macbeth reacts to the news of Fleance's escape with alarm, stating, "Then comes my fit again. I had else been perfect." [53](#page=53).
* As Macbeth sits down, he sees the ghost of Banquo in his seat [54](#page=54).
* Macbeth exclaims, "Thou canst not say I did it. Never shake thy gory locks at me," directly addressing the ghost [55](#page=55).
## Macbeth's foreboding and decision to consult the witches
## The witches' incantations and Hecate's displeasure
## Lennox and a Lord's discussion of the kingdom's state
## Macbeth's consultation with the apparitions
## The tragedy of Macduff's family
---
* Macbeth's tyrannical rule has plunged Scotland into suffering, marked by widespread grief, violence, and moral decay [73](#page=73) [78](#page=78).
* Malcolm, feigning extreme vice, tests Macduff's loyalty and assesses Scotland's readiness for liberation [74](#page=74) [75](#page=75).
* Lady Macbeth's descent into madness, characterized by sleepwalking and guilt, reveals the psychological toll of their crimes [83](#page=83) [84](#page=84).
* Macbeth faces increasing defiance and foreboding omens as the English forces, led by Malcolm and Macduff, advance [85](#page=85) [86](#page=86) [91](#page=91).
* Macduff expresses profound sorrow for Scotland's suffering, lamenting that "Great tyranny, lay thou thy basis sure, For goodness dare not check thee" [73](#page=73).
* Malcolm initially presents himself as more vicious than Macbeth, detailing vices like lust and avarice to gauge Macduff's reaction [74](#page=74) [75](#page=75).
* Macduff's despair deepens upon hearing of his wife and children's slaughter, fueling his desire for revenge [79](#page=79) [80](#page=80).
* Malcolm reveals his true virtuous nature after Macduff's genuine grief and unwavering loyalty, declaring he is not "Unknown to woman, never was forsworn" [76](#page=76).
* An English army of ten thousand men, led by Siward, is ready to support the invasion of Scotland [76](#page=76) [79](#page=79).
* Lady Macbeth sleepwalks, attempting to wash imaginary bloodstains from her hands and murmuring about past crimes [83](#page=83).
* The Doctor declares Lady Macbeth's illness beyond his medical practice, suggesting she needs divine help [84](#page=84) [87](#page=87).
* Macbeth is told Dunsinane is heavily fortified but feels his power weakening as "minutely revolts upbraid his faith-breach" [85](#page=85).
* Macbeth dismisses fear due to the prophecies, believing "No man that’s born of woman Shall e’er have power upon thee" [86](#page=86).
* A messenger reports that Birnam Wood appears to be moving towards Dunsinane, a detail that begins to shake Macbeth's confidence [91](#page=91).
* **Testing loyalty:** Malcolm employs a stratagem of self-vilification to test Macduff's integrity and ensure he is not a dupe of Macbeth [73](#page=73) [74](#page=74) [75](#page=75).
* **The "evil" disease:** The English king's touch is described as having a "heavenly gift" to cure a disease called "the evil," a contrast to Macbeth's corrupting influence [77](#page=77).
* **Psychological unraveling:** Lady Macbeth's guilt manifests in disturbing sleepwalking episodes, highlighting the internal consequences of their actions [82](#page=82) [83](#page=83) [84](#page=84).
* **The weight of tyranny:** Macbeth's reign is characterized by a lack of genuine loyalty; his subjects serve him only out of compulsion [85](#page=85).
* **Prophetic deceit:** Macbeth clings to the witches' prophecies, but the advancing army and the moving wood suggest a sophisticated deception [86](#page=86) [91](#page=91).
* **The nature of grief:** Macduff is encouraged to channel his profound grief into a manful rage and revenge [80](#page=80).
* Scotland is in a state of extreme distress, likened to a grave rather than a motherland, signifying the depth of Macbeth's tyranny [78](#page=78).
* Malcolm's feigned vices serve to test the character of those who would oppose Macbeth and to solidify his own virtuous claim to the throne [75](#page=75) [76](#page=76).
* Lady Macbeth's psychological breakdown signifies the inevitable unraveling that follows extreme moral transgression [83](#page=83) [84](#page=84).
* The apparent violation of natural order (the moving wood) directly challenges Macbeth's perceived invincibility and fuels his despair [91](#page=91).
* The coming invasion represents Scotland's chance for liberation and restoration of order, a "medicine of the sickly weal" [85](#page=85).
---
# Macbeth's military victory and initial prophecies
### Core idea
* Macbeth achieves a decisive military victory, personally defeating the rebel Macdonwald [10](#page=10).
* He is rewarded for his bravery and loyalty with new titles and honors [12](#page=12) [16](#page=16).
* The Weird Sisters deliver a series of prophecies that deeply affect Macbeth and Banquo [14](#page=14).
### Key facts
* The Scottish forces were fighting on two fronts: against the rebel Macdonwald and then against the invading Norwegian forces led by Sweno [10](#page=10) [11](#page=11) [12](#page=12).
* Macbeth is described as a valiant soldier, "like Valor’s minion," who "carved out his passage" through enemies [10](#page=10).
* Macbeth unseamed Macdonwald from the "nave to th’ chops" and displayed his head on the battlements [10](#page=10).
* The Norwegian invasion was aided by the traitorous Thane of Cawdor [12](#page=12).
* Norway's king, Sweno, was defeated and sought terms for burying his men, paying ten thousand dollars [12](#page=12).
* King Duncan orders the immediate execution of the Thane of Cawdor and that Macbeth be granted his title [12](#page=12).
* Macbeth and Banquo encounter three "weird sisters" (witches) on a heath [14](#page=14).
### Key concepts
* **Macbeth's bravery:** Portrayed as a fearless and exceptional warrior, essential to securing Scotland's victory [10](#page=10) [11](#page=11).
* **Betrayal and reward:** The play contrasts the disloyalty of Cawdor with Macbeth's valor, leading to a transfer of title [12](#page=12) [16](#page=16).
* **Prophetic ambiguity:** The witches' pronouncements are presented as "imperfect speakers," holding truths but also the potential for misinterpretation [15](#page=15).
* **Supernatural influence:** The witches' appearance and prophecies introduce an element of the uncanny and foreshadow future events [14](#page=14) [15](#page=15).
* **The "imperfect speakers":** The witches' cryptic language and partial truths are designed to intrigue and potentially mislead [15](#page=15).
### Implications
* The victory solidifies Macbeth's reputation as a heroic figure [10](#page=10) [16](#page=16).
* The prophecy of becoming Thane of Cawdor is immediately fulfilled, lending credence to the witches' words [12](#page=12) [16](#page=16).
* The prophecy that Macbeth will be king plants a seed of ambition, causing him internal conflict [15](#page=15) [17](#page=17).
* Banquo's prophecy (that he will father kings) also raises expectations and a sense of potential rivalry [15](#page=15) [17](#page=17).
* Macbeth grapples with the "horrible imaginings" stirred by the prophecies, revealing his immediate psychological impact [17](#page=17).
- > **Tip:** Pay close attention to the language used to describe Macbeth's fighting – it establishes his initial heroic status before his descent
- > **Tip:** Note how the witches' prophecies are delivered in threes and how Macbeth and Banquo react differently to them
---
# Lady Macbeth's resolve and preparation for Duncan's murder
### Core idea
* Lady Macbeth actively suppresses her conscience and calls upon dark spirits to empower her for the murder [22](#page=22).
* She instructs Macbeth to hide his true intentions, appearing welcoming while planning foul deeds [23](#page=23).
### Key facts
* She reads a letter from Macbeth detailing the witches' prophecies and Duncan's impending visit [21](#page=21).
* She fears Macbeth's nature is too kind to seize the throne through direct action [21](#page=21).
* She invokes spirits to "unsex" her, filling her with cruelty and blocking remorse [22](#page=22).
* She desires to be filled with "direst cruelty" and have her milk replaced with "gall." [22](#page=22).
* She wishes for the darkness of hell to conceal the murder from heaven and herself [22](#page=22).
* She learns King Duncan will arrive at their castle that very night [22](#page=22).
* She commands Macbeth to appear innocent and welcoming, like a flower, while hiding his serpent-like intentions [23](#page=23).
* She declares she will handle the "great business" of the night, ensuring their future reign [23](#page=23).
### Key concepts
* **Ambition vs. "milk of human kindness":** Lady Macbeth recognizes Macbeth's ambition but fears his inherent kindness will prevent him from taking ruthless action [21](#page=21).
* **Suppression of natural feelings:** She actively seeks to remove natural feelings of remorse and womanhood to commit the murder [22](#page=22).
* **Appearance vs. Reality:** The central theme of deception; looking innocent while harboring murderous intent [23](#page=23).
* **Embracing darkness:** Her appeal to "thick night" and hellish smoke signifies her willingness to embrace evil for power [22](#page=22).
### Implications
* Lady Macbeth's resolve is stronger and more immediate than Macbeth's at this point [21](#page=21) [22](#page=22).
* Her transformation requires a supernatural or spiritual intervention to overcome her natural humanity [22](#page=22).
* She manipulates Macbeth by taking charge of the plan and ensuring his compliance through deception [23](#page=23).
- > **Tip:** Note how Lady Macbeth's language becomes increasingly violent and dark as she prepares for the murder, reflecting her inner turmoil and resolve [22](#page=22)
- > **Tip:** The contrast between the welcoming exterior shown to Duncan and the dark intentions being plotted highlights the play's theme of deception [23](#page=23)
---
# Macbeth's dagger hallucination and the execution of the murder
### Core idea
- Macbeth's internal conflict and psychological state lead to a hallucination of a dagger before committing regicide [30](#page=30) [31](#page=31).
- Lady Macbeth manipulates Macbeth, overcoming his hesitations and ensuring the murder is carried out [26](#page=26) [27](#page=27).
- The immediate aftermath of the murder reveals Macbeth's profound psychological distress and guilt, contrasted with Lady Macbeth's pragmatic resolve [32](#page=32) [33](#page=33) [34](#page=34).
### Key facts
- Macbeth initially expresses deep reservations about murdering Duncan due to loyalty, kinship, and Duncan's virtuous nature [25](#page=25).
- Lady Macbeth questions Macbeth's manhood and courage, comparing his faltering resolve to a cowardly cat [26](#page=26).
- Lady Macbeth vows to kill her own child if she had made the same promise to Macbeth as he did to her [27](#page=27).
- Macbeth hallucinates a dagger, which he initially believes is real, pointing him towards Duncan's chamber [30](#page=30) [31](#page=31).
- The hallucinated dagger is described as a "dagger of the mind," a "false creation" from a tormented brain [31](#page=31).
- Macbeth sees imaginary blood on the dagger's blade and hilt, which then disappears [31](#page=31).
- Lady Macbeth drugs Duncan's chamberlains, ensuring they will be deeply asleep and unable to prevent the murder [27](#page=27) [32](#page=32).
- Macbeth hears cries of "Murder!" and "God bless us" from the drugged chamberlains, increasing his agitation [33](#page=33).
- Macbeth is unable to say "Amen" when the chamberlains pray, signifying his spiritual damnation [33](#page=33).
- Macbeth hears a voice proclaiming "Sleep no more! Macbeth does murder sleep" [33](#page=33).
- Lady Macbeth takes the bloody daggers from Macbeth to plant them on the sleeping grooms [34](#page=34).
- Macbeth's hands are described as stained with blood that "all great Neptune's ocean" cannot wash clean [34](#page=34).
### Key concepts
- "Vaulting ambition" is identified as Macbeth's sole motivation for the deed [26](#page=26).
- The concept of "bloody instructions" returning to plague the inventor highlights the cyclical nature of violence [25](#page=25).
- Lady Macbeth uses extreme rhetoric, including the threat of infanticide, to shame Macbeth into action [27](#page=27).
- The murder of sleep symbolizes the loss of innocence and peace for Macbeth [33](#page=33).
- The contrast between Macbeth's psychological torment and Lady Macbeth's outward composure after the murder is significant [32](#page=32) [33](#page=33) [34](#page=34).
- The ringing bell serves as a summoner, signaling the inevitability of the deed and Duncan's death [31](#page=31).
### Implications
- The dagger hallucination demonstrates Macbeth's psychological breakdown and the supernatural influence at play [30](#page=30) [31](#page=31).
- Lady Macbeth's manipulation reveals her ruthless ambition and psychological dominance over Macbeth [26](#page=26) [27](#page=27).
- The inability to say "Amen" signifies Macbeth's immediate and profound spiritual guilt [33](#page=33).
- The murder of sleep foretells the ongoing psychological torment and sleeplessness Macbeth will endure [33](#page=33).
### Common pitfalls
---
# Macbeth's insecurity and plotting against Banquo
### Core idea
* Macbeth's reign is plagued by insecurity, primarily driven by his fear of Banquo and his descendants inheriting the throne [46](#page=46).
* This insecurity fuels his paranoia and leads him to plot Banquo's murder to secure his own lineage and the crown [46](#page=46) [47](#page=47).
### Key facts
* Banquo recalls the witches' prophecies, noting Macbeth now holds all titles but fears Macbeth "played'st most foully for 't" [44](#page=44).
* Banquo also remembers the prophecy that he would father kings, creating a direct threat to Macbeth's ambition [44](#page=44).
* Macbeth outwardly maintains a pleasant demeanor towards Banquo, inviting him to a feast [44](#page=44).
* Privately, Macbeth hires murderers to kill Banquo and his son Fleance [46](#page=46) [47](#page=47) [48](#page=48).
* Macbeth frames the murders as revenge for the "vile blows and buffets of the world" Banquo inflicted upon the murderers [47](#page=47).
* Macbeth insists Fleance must also be killed, stating his absence is as crucial as Banquo's to remove the threat of his lineage [49](#page=49).
* Macbeth admits his "genius is rebuked" by Banquo's presence and wisdom [46](#page=46).
* Macbeth laments placing a "fruitless crown" on his head, destined to be taken by an "unlineal hand" [46](#page=46).
* Macbeth reveals his eternal soul is "given to the common enemy of man" for Banquo's issue to become kings [46](#page=46).
### Key concepts
* **Insecurity of power:** Macbeth's fear of losing his ill-gotten throne drives his actions [46](#page=46).
* **Legitimate vs. illegitimate succession:** Macbeth is threatened by Banquo's prophecy of a legitimate royal line, contrasting with his own violent usurpation [44](#page=44) [46](#page=46).
* **Paranoia and delusion:** Macbeth's mind is described as being "full of scorpions," indicating extreme psychological distress and paranoia [50](#page=50).
* **Machiavellian manipulation:** Macbeth uses deception and psychological manipulation to convince the murderers to kill Banquo [47](#page=47) [48](#page=48).
* **The "bloody deed":** Macbeth views the murder of Banquo and Fleance as necessary to secure his reign, comparing it to "scorching the snake, not killing it" [50](#page=50).
### Implications
* The murder of Banquo and the attempt on Fleance directly escalate Macbeth's tyranny and descent into barbarity [46](#page=46) [51](#page=51).
* Macbeth's actions demonstrate the corrosive effect of guilt and fear on his mental state [50](#page=50).
* The survival of Fleance leaves the door open for the fulfillment of the witches' prophecy regarding Banquo's lineage [49](#page=49).
* Macbeth's attempt to control fate through violence proves futile, as his actions only create more danger [51](#page=51).
- > **Tip:** Pay close attention to Macbeth's soliloquies in Act 3, Scene 1, as they reveal his deepest fears and motivations regarding Banquo
---
# Macbeth's growing paranoia and attempts to secure his power
### Core idea
* Macbeth experiences intense paranoia, stemming from the knowledge that Banquo and Fleance survived, and fears they will be a threat to his reign [50](#page=50).
* He becomes increasingly ruthless, resorting to murder and surveillance to maintain control and eliminate potential rivals [51](#page=51) [58](#page=58).
* His mental state deteriorates, marked by hallucinations and a desperate need for reassurance that his actions are irreversible [55](#page=55) [56](#page=56).
### Key facts
* Macbeth orders the murder of Banquo and Fleance because they are a threat to his power [51](#page=51).
* Three murderers are hired by Macbeth to carry out the assassination [51](#page=51).
* Banquo is murdered, but Fleance escapes, which deeply distresses Macbeth [52](#page=52) [53](#page=53).
* During a banquet, Macbeth is haunted by the ghost of Banquo, visible only to him [54](#page=54).
* Macbeth's erratic behavior at the banquet causes alarm among his guests [55](#page=55).
* He orders spies to be placed in the homes of his lords, indicating a pervasive sense of distrust [58](#page=58).
* Macbeth resolves to consult the Weird Sisters again to understand his future and potential threats [58](#page=58).
### Key concepts
* **The corrupting influence of power:** Macbeth's pursuit and maintenance of power lead him to commit increasingly heinous acts, eroding his morality [50](#page=50) [58](#page=58).
* **The burden of guilt and fear:** Macbeth is consumed by fear of discovery and the consequences of his actions, manifesting as psychological torment [50](#page=50) [53](#page=53).
* **The illusion of control:** Despite his efforts to secure his position, Macbeth remains vulnerable and unable to achieve true peace or security [50](#page=50) [54](#page=54).
* **The cyclical nature of violence:** Macbeth believes that his current actions are so deep that further violence is inevitable and less burdensome than retreat [58](#page=58).
### Implications
* The escape of Fleance suggests a potential future threat to Macbeth's lineage and power [53](#page=53).
* Macbeth's hallucinations and paranoia demonstrate the psychological toll of his tyranny [55](#page=55).
* Lady Macbeth's attempts to control Macbeth's behavior highlight the strain on their relationship and her dwindling influence over his descent [55](#page=55) [57](#page=57).
* Macbeth's decision to seek out the Weird Sisters again signals his reliance on supernatural prophecies to navigate his increasingly unstable reign [58](#page=58).
### Common pitfalls
* Overlooking the significance of Fleance's escape as a continuing threat [53](#page=53).
* Misinterpreting Macbeth's visions as simple madness rather than manifestations of guilt and fear [55](#page=55).
---
# Macbeth's growing paranoia and his consultation with the witches
### Core idea
* Macbeth's escalating paranoia drives him to seek further counsel from the witches, seeking confirmation and control over his fate [58](#page=58).
* The witches' prophecies, though seemingly reassuring, ultimately fuel Macbeth's hubris and lead to his downfall [65](#page=65) [66](#page=66).
### Key facts
* Macbeth expresses his intent to visit the witches again, stating, "I will tomorrow... More shall they speak" [58](#page=58).
* He feels he is too deeply involved in his violent actions to turn back, saying, "Returning were as tedious as go o'er" [58](#page=58).
* Lady Macbeth attributes his state to a lack of sleep and "young" fear [58](#page=58).
* Hecate, the mistress of the witches, is angered that they consulted with Macbeth without her [59](#page=59).
* Hecate plans a magical illusion to "draw him on to his confusion" [59](#page=59).
* Lennox and another Lord discuss how "things have been strangely borne," questioning Macbeth's actions and the suspicious deaths [60](#page=60).
* Macduff is in disgrace for not attending Macbeth's feast [61](#page=61).
* Macduff has gone to the English court to seek aid from King Edward against Macbeth [61](#page=61).
* Macbeth is preparing for war due to Macduff's actions [61](#page=61).
* The witches are preparing a powerful potion in a cauldron [62](#page=62) [63](#page=63).
### Key concepts
* **Escalating Paranoia:** Macbeth's anxieties are intensified by Macduff's absence and the general unease surrounding his reign [58](#page=58).
* **Supernatural Influence:** The witches and Hecate actively manipulate events and Macbeth's perception of his destiny [59](#page=59).
* **Prophetic Ambiguity:** The prophecies are designed to be interpreted in a way that fosters overconfidence, rather than providing clear guidance [65](#page=65) [66](#page=66).
* **Security as Enemy:** The witches warn that "security is mortals’ chiefest enemy" [60](#page=60).
### Implications
* Macbeth's reliance on the witches, rather than sound judgment, directly contributes to his rash decisions [58](#page=58).
* Hecate's involvement signals a more deliberate and powerful manipulation aimed at Macbeth's ultimate destruction [59](#page=59).
* The conversation between Lennox and the Lord reveals growing dissent and a desire for change among the Scottish nobility [60](#page=60) [61](#page=61).
* Macbeth receives three apparitions from the witches, each offering a prophecy meant to mislead him [65](#page=65) [66](#page=66).
### Common pitfalls
* Macbeth misinterprets the prophecy "none of woman born / Shall harm Macbeth" as absolute invincibility [65](#page=65).
* He places too much faith in the prophecy that he cannot be vanquished "until Great Birnam Wood to high Dunsinane Hill / Shall come against him" [66](#page=66).
* Seeing Banquo's descendants reign leads Macbeth to realize the trickery and the futility of his actions [67](#page=67).
---
# Malcolm's assessment of his own vices and fitness to rule
### Core idea
* Malcolm tests Macduff by feigning extreme vices to gauge his loyalty and judgment before revealing his true character [73](#page=73) [76](#page=76).
### Key facts
* Malcolm claims he is too lustful, avaricious, and prone to intemperance to be a good ruler [74](#page=74) [75](#page=75).
* He states his lust is boundless and would corrupt all women in Scotland [74](#page=74).
* He claims his avarice would lead him to seize nobles' lands and jewels [75](#page=75).
* Malcolm asserts his intemperance would lead to tyranny [74](#page=74).
* He claims he would overturn universal peace and confound all unity [75](#page=75).
* Malcolm denies possessing king-becoming graces like justice, temperance, and mercy [75](#page=75).
* He states his first false speaking was the self-accusation of these vices [76](#page=76).
* Malcolm reveals his true nature: never forsworn, rarely covetous, faithful, and truthful [76](#page=76).
* He has not yet touched women and desires truth as much as life [76](#page=76).
* Malcolm's honest self-disclosure is motivated by Macduff's integrity [76](#page=76).
### Key concepts
* **Testing loyalty:** Malcolm uses a feigned "test" to ensure Macduff's motivations are pure and not influenced by Macbeth [73](#page=73) [76](#page=76).
* **Vices as a barrier:** By presenting himself as flawed, Malcolm creates a deliberate barrier to assess Macduff's reaction and discern his true character [73](#page=73) [74](#page=74).
* **King-becoming graces:** These are the virtues Malcolm lists that a ruler should possess, which he initially claims to lack [75](#page=75).
* **Truth and honesty:** Malcolm's eventual revelation of his true character highlights the importance of these qualities in leadership [76](#page=76).
### Implications
* Malcolm's rigorous testing prevents him from being deceived by Macbeth's agents [76](#page=76).
* His revealed virtues make him a suitable and hopeful alternative to Macbeth's tyranny [76](#page=76).
* Malcolm's honest approach builds trust and solidifies the alliance with Macduff [76](#page=76).
* The scene underscores the contrast between genuine leadership qualities and Macbeth's corrupted rule [75](#page=75) [76](#page=76).
### Common pitfalls
* Macduff initially questions Malcolm's judgment for leaving his family vulnerable [73](#page=73).
* Macduff's despair at Malcolm's feigned vices could have led him to abandon the cause [73](#page=73) [75](#page=75).
---
# The approaching invasion and Macbeth's defiance
### Core idea
* An invading English army, led by Malcolm, Siward, and Macduff, is approaching Scotland [84](#page=84).
* Macbeth faces this threat with a combination of bravado and underlying fear, relying on prophecies for reassurance [86](#page=86).
* Macbeth's defiance stems from his belief in prophecies that he cannot be harmed by anyone born of woman [86](#page=86).
### Key facts
* The English forces are near Birnam Wood, where they are expected to meet the Scottish rebels [85](#page=85).
* Donalbain is not with Malcolm; Siward's son and other young men are part of the invading army [85](#page=85).
* Macbeth is heavily fortifying Dunsinane Castle [85](#page=85).
* Macbeth's subjects are loyal out of command, not love [85](#page=85).
* Macbeth demands his armor and prepares for battle, despite his inner turmoil [86](#page=86) [87](#page=87).
* Macbeth's own condition is described as "sick at heart" [86](#page=86).
* Macbeth's wife is suffering from sleepwalking and mental distress [84](#page=84).
* Macbeth is disillusioned with his life and the accompanying lack of honor and love [87](#page=87).
### Key concepts
* **Prophetic reassurance:** Macbeth clings to the prophecy that "No man that’s born of woman Shall e’er have power upon thee" [86](#page=86).
* **Psychological turmoil:** Macbeth exhibits signs of madness and "valiant fury," struggling to control his "distempered cause" [85](#page=85).
* **Guilt and paranoia:** Macbeth feels his "secret murders sticking on his hands" and is suspicious of those around him [85](#page=85) [86](#page=86).
* **Macbeth's defiance:** He declares he will fight until his flesh is hacked from his bones [87](#page=87).
* **Doctor's helplessness:** The doctor notes that Lady Macbeth's illness is beyond his medical practice and requires divine intervention [84](#page=84).
* **Macbeth's demand for healing:** He implores the doctor to cure his wife, asking if he can "minister to a mind diseased" [87](#page=87).
* **Macbeth's rejection of medicine:** He dismisses medical remedies, stating "Throw physic to the dogs. I’ll none of it" [88](#page=88).
### Implications
* Macbeth's reliance on prophecies might lead to his downfall due to misinterpretation or trickery [86](#page=86).
* The internal division and lack of loyalty within Scotland weaken Macbeth's position [85](#page=85).
* Macbeth's mental state deteriorates as he faces the consequences of his actions [85](#page=85) [87](#page=87).
* The invasion represents the collective will of Scotland to purge itself of Macbeth's tyranny [85](#page=85).
### Common pitfalls
* Overconfidence based on incomplete prophecies [86](#page=86).
* Misjudging the enemy's strength and resolve [86](#page=86).
* Relying on a crumbling inner circle of supporters [85](#page=85).
---
# The final battle and Macbeth's despair
### Core idea
* Macbeth's despair intensifies as his kingdom crumbles and prophecies are revealed as deceptive [90](#page=90) [91](#page=91).
* He faces the imminent collapse of his reign, feeling utterly alone and devoid of hope [90](#page=90) [91](#page=91).
### Key facts
* Macbeth orders his armor put on, despite his physician's inability to cure Scotland [88](#page=88).
* He expresses disbelief and anger at the news of the approaching army and the moving Birnam Wood [90](#page=90) [91](#page=91).
* The cry of women announces the death of Lady Macbeth [90](#page=90).
* Macbeth laments that his wife's death was not postponed to a more opportune moment [90](#page=90).
* A messenger reports that Birnam Wood appears to be moving towards Dunsinane [91](#page=91).
* Macbeth realizes the witches' prophecies may be lies and calls for immediate action [91](#page=91).
### Key concepts
* **Loss of sensation to fear:** Macbeth claims he has "almost forgot the taste of fears" due to his constant exposure to horror [90](#page=90).
* **Life as meaningless:** He delivers a soliloquy likening life to a brief, insignificant performance ending in oblivion [90](#page=90).
* **"Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow":** This phrase encapsulates the relentless, monotonous passage of time leading to death [90](#page=90).
* **"Walking shadow," "poor player," "tale told by an idiot":** These metaphors emphasize the ephemeral and senseless nature of existence from Macbeth's perspective [90](#page=90).
* **Doubt of equivocation:** Macbeth begins to question the deceptive nature of the prophecies that have guided him [91](#page=91).
### Implications
* The moving Birnam Wood directly contradicts a prophecy, shattering Macbeth's sense of security [91](#page=91).
* Macbeth's despair is a direct result of the prophecies proving to be treacherous illusions [91](#page=91).
* The death of Lady Macbeth removes his last remaining companion, deepening his isolation [90](#page=90).
* Macbeth's final realization of the prophecies' falsehood triggers a desperate, last-ditch effort to fight [91](#page=91).
- > **Tip:** Focus on Macbeth's language in his soliloquies to understand the depth of his despair and his philosophical outlook on life [90](#page=90)
---
# The fulfillment of prophecies and Macbeth's downfall
### Core idea
* Macbeth's downfall is intricately linked to his misinterpretation and overconfidence stemming from the witches' prophecies [91](#page=91) [94](#page=94).
* The apparent fulfillment of the prophecies ultimately leads to his destruction by revealing their deceptive nature [91](#page=91) [95](#page=95).
### Key facts
* A messenger reports that Birnam Wood appears to be moving towards Dunsinane [91](#page=91).
* Macbeth realizes this fulfills the prophecy: "Fear not till Birnam Wood / Do come to Dunsinane" [91](#page=91).
* The invading army uses branches from Birnam Wood as camouflage, making the forest seem to move [92](#page=92).
* Macbeth confronts young Siward, who states he was not "born of woman" [92](#page=92) [93](#page=93).
* Macbeth kills young Siward, further believing his invincibility due to the prophecy that he need not fear any man "born of woman" [93](#page=93).
* Macduff reveals he was "Untimely ripped" from his mother's womb, meaning he was not "born of woman" in the natural sense [94](#page=94).
* This revelation directly challenges Macbeth's belief in the prophecy and his security [94](#page=94) [95](#page=95).
### Key concepts
* **Equivocation of the fiend:** Macbeth begins to doubt the deceptive nature of the witches' prophecies, which "lies like truth" [91](#page=91).
* **Invincibility through prophecy:** Macbeth's belief in his invincibility is based on the prophecy that he will not be harmed by anyone "born of woman" [93](#page=93) [94](#page=94).
* **The loophole:** Macduff's birth circumvents the literal interpretation of the prophecy, exposing the witches' trickery [94](#page=94).
* **Despair and defiance:** Faced with the true meaning of the prophecies, Macbeth initially despairs but then defiantly resolves to fight to the last [95](#page=95).
### Implications
* Macbeth's misinterpretation leads him to a false sense of security, hindering his strategic decisions and ultimately his survival [91](#page=91) [95](#page=95).
* The "moving grove" prophecy's fulfillment signifies the imminent collapse of Macbeth's reign [91](#page=91) [92](#page=92).
* The revelation about Macduff's birth directly causes Macbeth to abandon his charmèd life belief and fight on sheer will [94](#page=94) [95](#page=95).
* The final battle and Macbeth's death represent the culmination of the prophecies' complex and misleading fulfillment [95](#page=95).
### Common pitfalls
* **Literal interpretation:** Macbeth falls into the trap of taking prophecies at their most literal and obvious meaning, missing their nuanced or deceptive intent [91](#page=91) [94](#page=94).
* **Overconfidence:** The prophecies breed overconfidence, making Macbeth reckless and unwilling to acknowledge danger until it is too late [91](#page=91) [95](#page=95).
---
## Common mistakes to avoid
- Review all topics thoroughly before exams
- Pay attention to formulas and key definitions
- Practice with examples provided in each section
- Don't memorize without understanding the underlying concepts
Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|------|------------|
| Vices | These are immoral or wicked behaviors or habits. In the context of Malcolm's self-assessment, they refer to his deliberately exaggerated negative qualities presented to Macduff to test his loyalty and judgment. |
| Fitness to Rule | This refers to the qualities, character, and capabilities that make an individual suitable to govern a kingdom or hold a position of leadership. Malcolm's assessment of his own fitness involves a complex act of self-presentation and testing. |
| Self-Assessment | The process of evaluating one's own character, abilities, and suitability for a particular role or task. Malcolm engages in a strategic self-assessment, not to understand himself, but to gauge Macduff's integrity. |
| Deception | The act of misleading or tricking someone, often for personal gain or to achieve a specific objective. Malcolm employs deception by feigning extreme vices to ascertain Macduff's true motives and loyalty. |
| Test of Loyalty | A situation or action designed to determine the faithfulness and commitment of an individual. Malcolm's exaggerated confession of vices serves as a crucial test of Macduff's loyalty to Scotland and its potential future leadership. |
| King-Becoming Graces | These are the virtues and qualities considered essential for a just and effective ruler. Malcolm lists these, such as justice, temperance, and mercy, to contrast them with the vices he claims to possess. |
| Tyranny | Cruel and oppressive government or rule. Malcolm refers to Macbeth as a "tyrant" and expresses concern that Scotland suffers under his oppressive reign. |
| Voluptuousness | The quality of being highly sensual or licentious. Malcolm claims to possess an immoderate level of this vice, suggesting an insatiable sexual appetite that would be detrimental to the kingdom. |
| Avarice | Extreme greed for wealth. Malcolm also claims to be consumed by avarice, stating he would seize nobles' lands and jewels for personal gain, further highlighting his feigned unsuitability. |
| Imperfect Ruler | An individual who lacks the necessary virtues and possesses significant flaws, making them unfit to govern. Malcolm presents himself as the epitome of an imperfect ruler to Macduff. |
| Judicious | Having, showing, or done with good judgment or sense. Malcolm tests Macduff's judiciousness by presenting him with a seemingly terrible choice between Macbeth and a ruler with Malcolm's claimed vices. |
| Integrity | The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness. Malcolm is ultimately looking for Macduff's integrity, which he finds when Macduff rejects the idea of serving a ruler as corrupt as Malcolm claims to be. |
| Physic | A medicinal substance or remedy, often referring to a purgative or laxative drug used to cleanse the body. Macbeth dismisses the idea of using such remedies to cure the ills of his land. |
| Purgative Drug | A substance that induces purging, typically by causing vomiting or a bowel movement, used to cleanse the body of impurities or disease. Macbeth questions what such drugs could do to remove his enemies. |
| Birnam Forest | A forest located near Dunsinane Castle. A prophecy states that Macbeth will not be defeated until Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane, a condition that is met by the invading army carrying branches from the forest. |
| Dunsinane | The location of Macbeth's castle, which is under siege by Malcolm's forces. Macbeth believes his castle's strength will protect him from the approaching army. |
| Constrainèd Things | In this context, it refers to people who are serving Macbeth not out of loyalty or willingness, but due to coercion or lack of any other option. Their hearts are not with him. |
| Famine and the Ague | Famine refers to extreme hunger and starvation, while ague refers to a fever or illness. Macbeth suggests that his castle's defenses are so strong that the besieging army will be destroyed by these forces. |
| Slaughterous Thoughts | Macbeth's thoughts are characterized by violence and bloodshed. He has become so accustomed to these dark and horrific thoughts that they no longer startle him. |
| Direness | Extreme or terrible circumstances. Macbeth states that he has become so desensitized by his own horrific actions that even the most dire situations can no longer shock him. |
| Recorded Time | The entirety of human history as it is documented or remembered. Macbeth views his life and all of history as a progression towards an inevitable and meaningless end. |
| Petty Pace | A slow, insignificant, and uneventful manner. Macbeth describes the progression of time as slow and tedious, leading to the ultimate end of existence. |
| Walking Shadow | A metaphor for life, suggesting its insubstantial, fleeting, and ultimately insignificant nature. Macbeth compares life to a shadow that moves but has no real substance. |
| Poor Player | A derogatory term for an actor, implying a lack of skill or importance. Macbeth likens life to a mediocre actor who performs briefly and then disappears without lasting impact. |
| Practice (medical) | Refers to the medical profession or the art and science of healing, indicating the Doctor's inability to cure Lady Macbeth's affliction. |
| Holily | In a manner that is devout, religious, and morally upright, suggesting a peaceful and spiritual end to life. |
| Grave | The place of burial for the dead; in this context, it implies that Banquo is deceased and cannot return from death. |
| Gate | An entrance or opening, often a large one, to a building or enclosed area; here, it signifies an approaching presence. |
| Foul whisperings | Malicious or sinister rumors and gossip that are circulating, contributing to an atmosphere of unease and suspicion. |
| Unnatural deeds | Actions that are morally wrong, wicked, or go against the natural order of things, leading to severe consequences. |
| Infected minds | Psychological states of individuals who are disturbed, troubled, or corrupted by guilt, fear, or madness. |
| Deaf pillows | A metaphorical reference to the inability of inanimate objects, like pillows, to hear or offer solace to troubled minds. |
| Divine | Relating to God or a god; in this context, it refers to spiritual or religious aid, suggesting Lady Macbeth needs heavenly intervention more than medical treatment. |
| Annoyance | The state of being irritated, frustrated, or bothered; here, it refers to anything that could cause Lady Macbeth further distress or harm. |
| Mated | In this context, it means to be outmatched, defeated, or bewildered, indicating the Doctor is overwhelmed by Lady Macbeth's condition. |
| Amazed | Filled with great surprise or wonder; the Doctor is astonished by the severity of Lady Macbeth's mental state. |
| Sound and fury | An expression signifying a great deal of noise and commotion that ultimately lacks any real meaning or substance, reflecting Macbeth's nihilistic view of existence. |
| Equivocation | The use of ambiguous language or misleading statements, often with a double meaning, which can be interpreted in multiple ways, as employed by the prophecies Macbeth received. |
| Moving grove | A reference to the prophecy that Macbeth would not be vanquished until Birnam Wood came to Dunsinane; this is fulfilled when Malcolm's soldiers camouflage themselves with branches from the wood. |
| Harness | Armor or protective clothing worn by a soldier, signifying readiness for battle and a commitment to fight until death, as Macbeth resolves to do. |
| Bear-like, I must fight the course | A simile describing Macbeth's predicament; like a bear tied to a stake in a bear-baiting, he is trapped and must fight his attackers without the ability to escape. |
| Charmèd life | Macbeth's belief that he is protected by a magical or supernatural enchantment, making him invulnerable to any man born of woman, a belief stemming from the witches' prophecies. |
| Untimely ripped | Refers to Macduff's birth, as he was delivered by Cesarean section, meaning he was not "born of woman" in the natural sense, thus fulfilling the prophecy that Macbeth could be defeated by someone not naturally born. |
| Juggling fiends | A term used by Macbeth to describe the witches or other supernatural entities whose prophecies are deceptive and misleading, offering promises that are broken in their ultimate fulfillment. |
| Palter | To speak or act in an insincere or deceitful manner, often by using ambiguous language or making false promises, as Macbeth accuses the "juggling fiends" of doing. |
| Resolve | A firm decision to do or not to do something, indicating a strong will and determination to achieve a particular goal, even in the face of obstacles. |
| Preparation | The action or process of making ready or being made ready for use or consideration, involving planning, gathering resources, and strategizing to ensure successful execution of a task. |
| Ambition | A strong desire to do or achieve something, often implying a drive for power, success, or advancement, which can motivate individuals to undertake significant actions. |
| Illness (in the context of ambition) | Refers to the ruthless or unscrupulous quality that should accompany ambition, suggesting that a certain degree of ruthlessness is necessary to achieve great things. |
| "Golden round" | This metaphor refers to the crown and the royal power associated with it, symbolizing the ultimate prize of kingship that Lady Macbeth desires for her husband. |
| "Metaphysical aid" | Refers to supernatural or otherworldly assistance, such as that provided by the witches, which is believed to influence or facilitate the attainment of destiny. |
| "Unsex me here" | Lady Macbeth's plea to be divested of her feminine qualities, which she perceives as hindrances to committing murder, and to be filled with masculine cruelty. |
| "Direst cruelty" | The most extreme and intense form of harshness and brutality, which Lady Macbeth invokes to enable her to carry out the heinous act of murder. |
| "Compunctious visitings of nature" | These are the natural feelings of remorse or guilt that arise from one's conscience, which Lady Macbeth wishes to suppress to avoid hindering her murderous intent. |
| "Fell purpose" | A cruel, fierce, and deadly intention or plan, specifically referring to the premeditated murder of King Duncan. |
| "Milk for gall" | Lady Macbeth desires her nurturing maternal qualities (symbolized by milk) to be replaced by bitterness and venom (gall), signifying a complete transformation into a merciless being. |
| "Sightless substances" | Refers to the invisible or intangible forms of spirits or supernatural entities that Lady Macbeth calls upon to assist her in her dark deeds. |
| Assassination | The act of murdering a prominent person, often for political or religious reasons, which Macbeth contemplates as a means to achieve his ambitions. |
| Bloody Instructions | The actions and consequences of violence that, once initiated, tend to be repeated and ultimately harm the perpetrator. |
| Vaulting Ambition | An excessive and unchecked desire for power or achievement that can lead to self-destruction and downfall, as described by Macbeth. |
| Golden Opinions | The positive reputation and respect Macbeth has earned from others, which he fears losing by committing the murder. |
| Undaunted Mettle | Macbeth's strong and courageous spirit, which Lady Macbeth believes is capable of great deeds and should only produce male offspring. |
| Dagger Hallucination | A supernatural or psychological manifestation where Macbeth perceives a dagger before him, symbolizing his murderous intent and the deed he is about to commit. |
| Fatal Vision | A deceptive or supernatural apparition, such as the dagger Macbeth sees, that appears to guide or influence his actions towards a tragic outcome. |
| Gouts of Blood | Drops or stains of blood, which Macbeth sees on the spectral dagger, representing the violence and guilt associated with the impending murder. |
| Witchcraft | The practice of magic, often associated with evil or supernatural forces, which is depicted as being active during the night of Duncan's murder. |
| Hecate | In Greek mythology, the goddess of witchcraft, magic, and the night; here, she is invoked to represent the dark forces at play. |
| Tarquin's Ravishing Strides | A reference to the legendary rape of Lucretia by Sextus Tarquinius, symbolizing a violent and predatory approach towards a goal. |
| Bellman | A person who rings a bell, often to announce something or to signal the end of a period; here, the bell signifies the summons to murder and death. |
| Filthy witness | Refers to the blood on Macbeth's hands, which he perceives as undeniable evidence of his guilt and the crime he has committed. |
| Infirm of purpose | A phrase used by Lady Macbeth to criticize Macbeth's wavering resolve and fear, highlighting his lack of steadfastness in the face of their actions. |
| Sleepy grooms | The servants who were drugged and are now asleep, and whom Lady Macbeth intends to frame for Duncan's murder by smearing them with blood. |
| Multitudinous seas | An expression of Macbeth's overwhelming guilt, suggesting that even the vastness of all oceans would be insufficient to cleanse the blood from his hands. |
| Equivocator | In this context, a person who speaks ambiguously or misleadingly, often for personal gain or to deceive. The Porter humorously describes one who could swear falsely in legal matters and still not reach heaven. |
| Lechery | Excessive indulgence in sexual desire. The Porter humorously describes how drink can provoke and then impair the performance of lechery, making it an "equivocator." |
| Primrose way | A metaphorical path leading to pleasure and indulgence, which ultimately ends in damnation or "everlasting bonfire." |
| Alarum bell | A bell rung to signal an alarm, typically in times of danger or emergency, used here to alert the household to the discovery of Duncan's murder. |
| Death's counterfeit | A metaphor for sleep, suggesting it is a temporary state that mimics death, from which one must awaken to face the grim reality of the situation. |
| Gorgon | In Greek mythology, a monstrous creature whose gaze could turn people to stone. Macduff uses this imagery to describe the horrific sight of Duncan's murdered body. |
| The wine of life | A metaphor for the vitality, joy, and purpose of existence. Macbeth feels that with Duncan's death, this "wine" has been drained, leaving only the worthless residue of life. |
| Undivulged pretense | Refers to the hidden motive or scheme behind the murder, which remains unknown and is suspected to be treasonous malice. |
| Unnatural | Deviating from what is normal or expected, often implying a disruption of the natural order, as seen in the strange events following Duncan's murder. |
| Sovereignty | The supreme power or authority of a state or ruler; in this context, it refers to the kingship that is expected to pass to Macbeth. |
| Invested | Formally given the powers and symbols of an office or rank, specifically referring to Macbeth's coronation as king. |
| Unlineal hand | A hand or lineage that is not descended from the rightful heir, indicating a succession that is illegitimate or unexpected. |
| Filed my mind | To have corrupted or defiled one's own thoughts or conscience, implying a moral compromise made for a specific purpose. |
| Rancors | Bitter feelings of resentment or ill will, which Macbeth has allowed to fill his mind and peace. |
| Eternal jewel | Refers to the soul or one's eternal salvation, which Macbeth has given away to the "common enemy of man" (the devil). |
| Fate into the list | To accept and confront destiny or fate directly in a contest or struggle. |
| Champion me to th’ utterance | To fight for me until the very end or to the utmost extent. |
| Station in the file | A recognized position or rank within a hierarchy or group, implying a level of worth or capability among men. |
| Grapples you to the heart | To bind you closely to someone's affection or loyalty, suggesting a deep connection and commitment. |
| Bear-like | In the context of Macbeth's fight, this refers to the practice of tying a bear to a stake and allowing dogs to attack it, a brutal form of entertainment where the bear is trapped and must fight for its life. |
| Intrenchant air | The intangible and unresisting air; Macbeth claims his "charmed life" makes him as impervious to a sword as the air is to being cut. |
| Rabble's curse | The insults and condemnation of the common people; Macbeth refuses to surrender and be subjected to public humiliation. |
| Usurper | A person who has obtained power and position by force, violence, or illegal means; this term refers to Macbeth's illegitimate rule over Scotland. |
| Self and violent hands | Refers to suicide; the text suggests that Lady Macbeth took her own life. |
| Butcher | A cruel and violent person; this epithet is used to describe Macbeth due to his tyrannical and bloody reign. |
| Scorched the snake, not killed it | This metaphor signifies that Macbeth has eliminated King Duncan but has not eradicated the threat to his power, as Banquo and Fleance still pose a danger, like a wounded snake that can still strike. |
| Malice domestic | Refers to internal threats and ill will originating from within Scotland, as opposed to external invasions or foreign attacks, highlighting Macbeth's fear of his own subjects. |
| Vizards to our hearts | This phrase describes the act of wearing masks or disguises to conceal one's true feelings and intentions, indicating Macbeth and Lady Macbeth's need to appear cheerful while harboring dark thoughts. |
| O, full of scorpions is my mind | Macbeth uses this vivid metaphor to express the torment and poisonous thoughts that plague his conscience, illustrating his deep-seated anxiety and guilt over his actions. |
| Nature’s copy’s not eterne | This means that the natural lifespan of all living things is not eternal; they are mortal and will eventually die, offering Macbeth a grim comfort that Banquo and Fleance will not live forever. |
| Seeling night | This refers to the act of blinding or closing the eyes of the day, symbolizing the onset of darkness and the concealment of deeds that cannot be seen in the light, facilitating Macbeth's murderous plans. |
| Vizards | Masks or disguises worn to conceal one's true identity or intentions. |
| Offices | Duties or tasks assigned to someone. |
| Lated traveler | A traveler who is behind schedule or traveling late. |
| Note of expectation | A list or group of people who are expected to be present. |
| Jocund | Cheerful and lighthearted. |
| Eterne | Eternal or everlasting. |
| Kerns and Gallowglasses | These terms refer to types of soldiers. Kerns were lightly armed Irish foot soldiers, while gallowglasses were heavily armed mercenaries, often of Norse-Gaelic descent, who served in Ireland. |
| Bellona’s bridegroom | This is a metaphor referring to Macbeth, comparing him to Bellona, the Roman goddess of war, and her husband, signifying Macbeth's ferocity and prowess in battle. |
| Thane of Cawdor | A Scottish noble title, equivalent to an earl. The original Thane of Cawdor was a traitor who supported the Norwegian invasion and was subsequently executed, with his title and lands being bestowed upon Macbeth. |
| Sweno | The King of Norway, who initiated an invasion of Scotland. After suffering significant losses at the hands of Macbeth and Banquo, he sued for peace and paid a tribute to the Scottish king. |
| Saint Colme’s Inch | A location where the tribute from the defeated Norwegian king, Sweno, was to be paid to the Scottish forces. |
| The Weïrd Sisters | These are the three witches who deliver prophecies to Macbeth and Banquo. The term "Weïrd" relates to fate or destiny, suggesting their supernatural and prophetic nature. |
| Blasted heath | A desolate and barren piece of land where Macbeth and Banquo first encounter the witches. The bleak environment reflects the unsettling and supernatural nature of the prophecies. |
| Imperfect speakers | This term is used by Macbeth to describe the witches, indicating that their prophecies are not fully clear or complete, leaving room for interpretation and uncertainty. |
| Sinel | The father of Macbeth. Macbeth's knowledge of his own title as Thane of Glamis comes from his lineage, as he inherited it upon his father's death. |
| Instruments of darkness | This phrase, used by Banquo, refers to the witches and their prophecies. He suspects that these supernatural beings may be using deceptive truths to lead them towards evil actions. |
| Imperial theme | This refers to the grand ambition of becoming king. Banquo suggests that the prophecies, particularly Macbeth's, are the initial steps or "prologues" to this ultimate goal. |
| Supernatural soliciting | Macbeth uses this phrase to describe the influence of the witches' prophecies. He is unsure whether this supernatural intervention is benevolent or malevolent, given that it has already presented him with a truthful prediction. |
| Augurs | These are individuals who interpret omens and signs, often from the flight of birds, to predict future events or divine the will of the gods. In this context, Macbeth refers to them as a source of hidden knowledge. |
| Weïrd Sisters | This refers to the three witches in the play, who are supernatural beings that possess prophetic abilities and engage in dark magic. Macbeth seeks them out to gain further insight into his future. |
| Paranoia | A mental condition characterized by delusions of persecution, unwarranted jealousy, or exaggerated self-importance. Macbeth exhibits increasing paranoia as he fears discovery and plots to maintain his power. |
| Apparition | A ghostly or spectral figure, often appearing as a supernatural manifestation. In Macbeth's consultation with the witches, various apparitions are conjured to deliver prophecies. |
| Charm | A spoken spell or incantation used to invoke supernatural powers or to influence events. The witches use charms in their rituals to create potent brews and deliver their prophecies. |
| Cauldron | A large metal pot, typically used for cooking over an open fire, but in this context, it is a vessel used by the witches for brewing magical concoctions. |
| Security | In this context, security refers to a state of overconfidence or complacency, which the witches identify as a mortal's greatest weakness and a path to downfall. |
| Delinquents | Individuals who have committed a crime or offense. Macbeth refers to the guards he murdered as delinquents, implying they were responsible for Duncan's death, a false accusation to cover his own guilt. |
| Tyrant | A cruel and oppressive ruler. Lennox uses this term to describe Macbeth, highlighting his illegitimate and oppressive reign. |
| Malevolence | The state or condition of being malevolent; ill will. This refers to the ill-intentioned nature of fortune or circumstances that do not diminish the respect received by Malcolm. |
| Exasperate | To irritate or provoke to a high degree; infuriate. The King (Macbeth) is exasperated by the news of Macduff's defiance and prepares for war. |
| Pernicious | Having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way. Macbeth curses this hour, indicating its profoundly damaging and destructive nature. |
| Thane | A Scottish title of nobility, ranking below an earl. In the context of Macbeth, it signifies a lord or chieftain of a district. |
| Prophecy | A prediction of future events, often delivered by supernatural means. The Weïrd Sisters' prophecies are central to the unfolding of Macbeth's destiny. |
| Assassinate | To murder a prominent person, especially for political or religious reasons. Macbeth and Lady Macbeth plot to assassinate King Duncan to seize the throne. |
| Synopsis | A brief summary or general statement of the main points of something. The synopsis provides an overview of the plot and key events in the play Macbeth. |
| Thane of Glamis | The title held by Macbeth before he becomes Thane of Cawdor and subsequently king. It is one of the initial prophecies given to him by the Weïrd Sisters. |
| Prince of Cumberland | The title given to Malcolm, Duncan's elder son, signifying his status as heir to the throne. This designation becomes a direct obstacle for Macbeth's aspirations. |
| Inverness | The location of Macbeth's castle, where King Duncan plans to stay. It becomes the site of Duncan's murder. |
| Grooms | Servants in a castle, particularly those attending to the king or nobility. In Macbeth, the grooms are drugged and framed for Duncan's murder. |