MACBETH

“You know your own degrees; sit down. At first
And last, the hearty welcome.”

• Explanation: Macbeth tells the guests to sit according to their rank (“degrees”) and welcomes them warmly.
• Analysis: The phrase “at first and last” suggests that his welcome applies to everyone, whether they are just arriving or have been there. The word “hearty” implies a strong and warm greeting, though we know his inner turmoil contrasts with this outward hospitality.
• Themes: Appearance vs. Reality – Macbeth appears as a gracious host, but he is preoccupied with Banquo’s murder.

LORDS

“Thanks to your Majesty.”

• Explanation: The lords express their gratitude.
• Analysis: This is formal and respectful, highlighting how Macbeth is being treated as a legitimate king despite his violent rise to power.
• Themes: Power and Kingship – The lords respect Macbeth, but his authority is based on fear rather than legitimacy.

MACBETH

“Ourself will mingle with society
And play the humble host.”

• Explanation: Macbeth says he will move among the guests and act as a modest host.
• Analysis: The phrase “play the humble host” suggests that Macbeth is merely pretending to be a welcoming king. The word “play” implies deception, reinforcing the theme of Appearance vs. Reality.

“Our hostess keeps her state, but in best time
We will require her welcome.”

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth remains seated in a position of honor, but at the right moment, she will also welcome the guests.
• Analysis: “Keeps her state” shows her high social position, but Macbeth dictates when she should speak, reinforcing the gender roles of the time.

LADY MACBETH

“Pronounce it for me, sir, to all our friends,
For my heart speaks they are welcome.”

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth asks Macbeth to give the formal welcome on her behalf, but she insists that she truly feels glad to have them there.
• Analysis: This line shows her continuing role as a supportive wife, though her power is beginning to fade compared to earlier scenes. Her words suggest sincerity, but we know that she and Macbeth are hiding their crimes.
• Themes: Deception – Like Macbeth, Lady Macbeth puts on a false appearance of joy.

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The Murderer’s Arrival

MACBETH

“See, they encounter thee with their hearts’ thanks.
Both sides are even.”

• Explanation: Macbeth comments that the guests are thanking them warmly. “Both sides are even” likely means that both the host and guests are showing courtesy to each other.
• Analysis: This phrase has a double meaning. While it refers to the hospitality, it could also hint at his desire to balance the situation—Banquo’s murder was meant to “even” out the threat he posed.

“Here I’ll sit i’ th’ midst.
Be large in mirth. Anon we’ll drink a measure
The table round.”

• Explanation: Macbeth chooses to sit among his guests and encourages them to be merry, promising a toast soon.
• Analysis: He wants to appear relaxed and in control, but the audience knows he is anxious about Banquo. “Be large in mirth” (be very joyful) contrasts with his growing paranoia.
• Themes: Appearance vs. Reality – Macbeth outwardly celebrates, but inwardly he is consumed with guilt and fear.

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The Murderer’s Report

MACBETH

“There’s blood upon thy face.”

• Explanation: Macbeth immediately notices the murderer’s bloody face.
• Analysis: Blood is a symbol of guilt and violence throughout the play. Macbeth’s obsession with blood foreshadows his increasing paranoia.

MURDERER

“’Tis Banquo’s then.”

• Explanation: The murderer confirms that the blood belongs to Banquo.
• Analysis: This blunt response shows that the murder was carried out without hesitation.

MACBETH

“’Tis better thee without than he within.”

• Explanation: Macbeth means that it is better for the blood to be on the murderer’s face than inside Banquo’s body (meaning Banquo is dead).
• Analysis: This gruesome statement shows Macbeth’s growing comfort with violence. The contrast between “thee without” and “he within” emphasizes death and bloodshed.

“Is he dispatched?”

• Explanation: Macbeth asks if Banquo is completely dead.
• Analysis: The word “dispatched” dehumanizes Banquo, treating his murder as a task rather than a crime.

MURDERER

“My lord, his throat is cut. That I did for him.”

• Explanation: The murderer confirms Banquo’s death, saying he personally cut his throat.
• Analysis: This cold, matter-of-fact tone highlights how brutality has become casual in Macbeth’s reign.

MACBETH

“Thou art the best o’ th’ cutthroats,
Yet he’s good that did the like for Fleance.
If thou didst it, thou art the nonpareil.”

• Explanation: Macbeth praises the murderer, calling him the best of all killers. He adds that whoever killed Fleance would also be great and, if the murderer succeeded, he would be unmatched (“nonpareil”).
• Analysis: Macbeth’s praise for murder reveals his deep moral corruption. The word “cutthroats” has a sinister tone, emphasizing how Macbeth now values ruthless killers.

MURDERER

“Most royal sir, Fleance is ’scaped.”

• Explanation: The murderer informs Macbeth that Fleance has escaped.
• Analysis: The title “Most royal sir” is ironic—Macbeth’s kingship is built on murder and deceit, not legitimacy.

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Macbeth’s Reaction

MACBETH (aside)

“Then comes my fit again. I had else been perfect—”

• Explanation: Macbeth reacts with distress, saying that if Fleance had been killed, he would have felt secure. Instead, his fear returns.
• Analysis: The word “fit” suggests both a physical reaction (panic attack) and a mental breakdown. “Perfect” means complete peace of mind, showing that Macbeth is obsessed with eliminating all threats.

“Whole as the marble, founded as the rock, As broad and general as the casing air.”

• Explanation: Macbeth says that he used to feel strong, stable, and unshakable—like solid marble or a firm rock. He also felt free and powerful, like the air that surrounds everything.
• Analysis: The similes (“as the marble,” “as the rock”) emphasize Macbeth’s past confidence. The comparison to air suggests freedom and limitless power.

“But now I am cabined, cribbed, confined, bound in To saucy doubts and fears.”

• Explanation: Now, he feels trapped and surrounded by fear and doubt.
• Analysis: The alliteration (“cabined, cribbed, confined”) highlights how restricted he feels, as if physically locked in. The word “saucy” (bold or insolent) shows that his fears are actively challenging him.

“But Banquo’s safe?”

• Explanation: Macbeth wants confirmation that Banquo is dead.
• Analysis: The word “safe” is ironic—Macbeth means “dead,” showing his twisted view of security.

“Ay, my good lord. Safe in a ditch he bides, With twenty trenchèd gashes on his head, The least a death to nature.”

• Explanation: The murderer confirms that Banquo is dead, lying in a ditch with deep cuts on his head. Even the smallest of these wounds could have killed him.
• Analysis: The phrase “trenchèd gashes” is vivid imagery, making Banquo’s death seem brutal. Hyperbole (exaggeration) in “twenty gashes” emphasizes the violence.

“Thanks for that. There the grown serpent lies. The worm that’s fled Hath nature that in time will venom breed, No teeth for th’ present.”

• Explanation: Macbeth is relieved Banquo is dead (the “grown serpent”), but he worries about Banquo’s son, Fleance (the “worm”). Fleance is not dangerous now, but he could become a threat in the future.
• Analysis: The metaphor of the snake and worm shows how Macbeth views threats. “Venom breed” suggests that Fleance will one day take revenge.

“Get thee gone. Tomorrow We’ll hear ourselves again.”

• Explanation: Macbeth dismisses the murderer and tells him they will talk later.
• Analysis: This shows Macbeth’s growing control and secrecy—he does not want to discuss murder in public.

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The Banquet Scene – Lady Macbeth & the Ghost of Banquo

“My royal lord, You do not give the cheer. The feast is sold That is not often vouched, while ’tis a-making, ’Tis given with welcome.”

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth reminds Macbeth that he is not acting like a good host. A feast is meaningless if the host does not properly welcome guests.
• Analysis: The metaphor of the feast being “sold” suggests that without warmth and hospitality, it is just a transaction, not a celebration.

“To feed were best at home; From thence, the sauce to meat is ceremony; Meeting were bare without it.”

• Explanation: She says that if people only wanted food, they could eat at home. What makes a feast special is the social interaction and traditions. Without these, a gathering is empty.
• Analysis: The metaphor of “sauce to meat” suggests that ceremony and atmosphere add flavor to life, just as sauce enhances food.

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Enter Banquo’s Ghost – Macbeth’s Breakdown

“Sweet remembrancer!”

• Explanation: Macbeth sarcastically thanks Lady Macbeth for reminding him of his duties.
• Analysis: The sarcasm shows his irritation—his mind is too occupied with guilt and fear.

“Now, good digestion wait on appetite And health on both!”

• Explanation: Macbeth raises a toast, hoping that everyone enjoys their meal and stays healthy.
• Analysis: Dramatic irony—Macbeth is anything but healthy, and his appetite for power has ruined his peace.

“Here had we now our country’s honor roofed, Were the graced person of our Banquo present,”

• Explanation: Macbeth says that the gathering would be complete if Banquo were here.
• Analysis: Irony—Macbeth knows Banquo is dead but pretends he is only absent. This also foreshadows the ghost’s entrance.

“Who may I rather challenge for unkindness Than pity for mischance.”

• Explanation: Macbeth says he would rather believe Banquo was rude for not coming than pity him for misfortune.
• Analysis: Dramatic irony—Banquo’s “mischance” (bad luck) is that he was murdered under Macbeth’s orders.

“His absence, sir, Lays blame upon his promise. Please ’t your Highness To grace us with your royal company?”

• Explanation: Ross says Banquo’s absence makes it seem like he broke a promise. He then invites Macbeth to sit.
• Analysis: This moment builds suspense—Macbeth is about to see Banquo’s ghost.

“The table’s full.”

• Explanation: Macbeth refuses to sit because he sees Banquo’s ghost in his place.
• Analysis: This simple statement is terrifying. Imagery of an occupied seat signals Macbeth’s growing paranoia and guilt.

LENNOX: Here is a place reserved, sir.
MACBETH: Where?

• Explanation: Lennox points out an empty seat for Macbeth. Macbeth is confused because he sees Banquo’s ghost sitting there.
• Analysis: This moment builds suspense. The audience knows Banquo is dead, yet Macbeth believes he is still present.
• Literary Device: Dramatic irony—other characters do not see the ghost, but the audience and Macbeth do.

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LENNOX: Here, my good lord. What is ’t that moves your Highness?

• Explanation: Lennox reassures Macbeth that the seat is empty. He is confused by Macbeth’s reaction.
• Analysis: Lennox’s question highlights Macbeth’s disturbed state.
• Theme: Madness—Macbeth is losing control of reality.

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MACBETH: Which of you have done this?
LORDS: What, my good lord?

• Explanation: Macbeth believes someone is playing a trick on him. The lords are confused because they do not see Banquo’s ghost.
• Analysis: Macbeth’s paranoia is increasing.
• Theme: Guilt—Macbeth cannot escape the consequences of his actions.

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MACBETH, to the Ghost:
Thou canst not say I did it. Never shake thy gory locks at me.

• Explanation: Macbeth speaks directly to Banquo’s ghost, denying responsibility for the murder.
• Analysis: Macbeth’s guilt manifests as a hallucination.
• Literary Device: Personification—Banquo’s ghost is given the human action of “shaking” its head in accusation.

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ROSS: Gentlemen, rise. His Highness is not well.

• Explanation: Ross suggests ending the feast because Macbeth is acting strangely.
• Analysis: Macbeth’s behavior is alarming the guests, threatening his public image.
• Theme: Power—Macbeth’s authority is weakened by his instability.

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LADY MACBETH:
Sit, worthy friends. My lord is often thus and hath been from his youth.

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth tries to calm the guests, claiming Macbeth has had such episodes since childhood.
• Analysis: She is protecting Macbeth’s reputation.
• Theme: Deception—Lady Macbeth covers up Macbeth’s instability.

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LADY MACBETH:
The fit is momentary; upon a thought he will again be well.

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth tells the guests that Macbeth will recover quickly.
• Analysis: She tries to downplay his outburst to avoid suspicion.
• Theme: Appearance vs. Reality—She pretends everything is fine when it is not.

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LADY MACBETH:
If much you note him, you shall offend him and extend his passion.

• Explanation: She warns the guests not to pay attention to Macbeth, or it will make him worse.
• Analysis: Lady Macbeth manipulates the situation to keep suspicion away from Macbeth.

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LADY MACBETH, drawing Macbeth aside:
Are you a man?

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth questions Macbeth’s masculinity to make him regain control.
• Analysis: She is using emotional manipulation, just as she did earlier when convincing him to kill Duncan.
• Theme: Masculinity—Lady Macbeth associates fear with weakness.

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MACBETH:
Ay, and a bold one, that dare look on that which might appall the devil.

• Explanation: Macbeth insists he is brave enough to face even a terrifying ghost.
• Analysis: He is trying to prove his strength, but his fear is obvious.
• Theme: Supernatural—Macbeth believes in ghosts and omens.

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LADY MACBETH:
O, proper stuff! This is the very painting of your fear.

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth dismisses Macbeth’s vision, saying it is just his imagination.
• Analysis: She does not believe in supernatural events and sees Macbeth’s fear as weakness.
• Literary Device: Metaphor—”painting of your fear” suggests the ghost is a creation of Macbeth’s mind.

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LADY MACBETH:
This is the air-drawn dagger which you said led you to Duncan.

• Explanation: She compares Banquo’s ghost to the hallucinated dagger Macbeth saw before killing Duncan.
• Analysis: She suggests Macbeth is imagining things again due to guilt.
• Theme: Guilt—Macbeth’s mind is haunted by his crimes.

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LADY MACBETH:
O, these flaws and starts, impostors to true fear, would well become a woman’s story at a winter’s fire, authorized by her grandam. Shame itself!

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth says Macbeth’s fear is like an old woman’s ghost story.
• Analysis: She insults Macbeth’s bravery to force him to regain composure.
• Theme: Gender roles—She associates fear with femininity.

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LADY MACBETH:
Why do you make such faces? When all’s done, you look but on a stool.

• Explanation: She tells Macbeth that he is just looking at an empty chair, not a ghost.
• Analysis: She continues to deny the supernatural and belittle his fear.

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MACBETH:
Prithee, see there. Behold, look! (To the Ghost) Lo, how say you?

• Explanation: Macbeth insists that Banquo’s ghost is real and tries to make others see it.
• Analysis: His paranoia is worsening, making him look unstable.
• Theme: Madness—Macbeth’s mind is breaking under guilt and fear.

“Why, what care I? If thou canst nod, speak too.— If charnel houses and our graves must send Those that we bury back, our monuments Shall be the maws of kites.”

• Explanation: Macbeth challenges the ghost, saying that if it can move (nod), it should be able to speak as well. He expresses frustration, suggesting that if the dead refuse to stay buried, then graves and tombs are meaningless, as bodies would just be eaten by scavenger birds (kites).
• Analysis: This passage shows Macbeth’s growing paranoia and frustration. He believed that killing Banquo would secure his throne, but instead, Banquo’s ghost haunts him, symbolizing his guilt and fear.
• Theme: Supernatural and Guilt – Macbeth’s vision of the ghost suggests that his conscience is tormenting him.

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“Ghost exits.”

• Explanation: The ghost vanishes, reinforcing the idea that it may be a hallucination.
• Analysis: This moment leaves Macbeth unsettled but also reveals that his mind is spiraling out of control.

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“LADY MACBETH: What, quite unmanned in folly?”

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth criticizes Macbeth for losing his composure over something foolish.
• Analysis: She continues to belittle his fear, just as she did earlier by questioning his manhood.
• Theme: Masculinity and Power – She sees emotions and fear as weaknesses.

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“MACBETH: If I stand here, I saw him.”

• Explanation: Macbeth insists that he truly saw the ghost.
• Analysis: His paranoia is worsening. Unlike Lady Macbeth, who dismisses the supernatural, Macbeth fully believes in it.

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“LADY MACBETH: Fie, for shame!”

• Explanation: She scolds him, urging him to pull himself together.
• Analysis: She fears his behavior will expose their crimes.
• Theme: Appearance vs. Reality – She wants to maintain control and keep up the illusion of normalcy.

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“MACBETH: Blood hath been shed ere now, i’ th’ olden time, Ere humane statute purged the gentle weal; Ay, and since too, murders have been performed Too terrible for the ear.”

• Explanation: Macbeth reflects on how, in the past, people were murdered without supernatural consequences.
• Analysis: He struggles to understand why Banquo’s ghost is haunting him when past murderers were not haunted by their victims.

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“The time has been That, when the brains were out, the man would die, And there an end. But now they rise again With twenty mortal murders on their crowns And push us from our stools.”

• Explanation: Macbeth complains that in the past, once a person was dead, they stayed dead. Now, the dead seem to return to haunt the living.
• Analysis: This shows Macbeth’s deepening paranoia and guilt. Banquo’s ghost represents his inability to escape the consequences of his actions.
• Literary Device: Hyperbole – “Twenty mortal murders on their crowns” exaggerates the number of wounds, making Banquo’s ghost seem even more terrifying.

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“LADY MACBETH: My worthy lord, Your noble friends do lack you.”

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth tries to redirect Macbeth’s attention to the guests, reminding him that they are watching.
• Analysis: She continues to manage Macbeth, attempting to maintain their public image.

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“MACBETH: I do forget.— Do not muse at me, my most worthy friends. I have a strange infirmity, which is nothing To those that know me.”

• Explanation: Macbeth tells the guests not to be concerned about his behavior, calling it an “infirmity” (illness).
• Analysis: He tries to cover up his breakdown, but the damage is done—his guests are already suspicious.

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“Come, love and health to all. Then I’ll sit down.—Give me some wine. Fill full.”

• Explanation: Macbeth tries to act normal again by proposing a toast.
• Analysis: He is desperately trying to regain control of the situation.

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Enter Ghost.

• Explanation: Banquo’s ghost reappears, just as Macbeth tries to regain his composure.
• Analysis: This symbolizes that Macbeth cannot escape his guilt—it returns even when he tries to suppress it.

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“I drink to th’ general joy o’ th’ whole table And to our dear friend Banquo, whom we miss. Would he were here! To all, and him we thirst, And all to all.”

• Explanation: Macbeth sarcastically toasts to Banquo, pretending to wish he were present—while knowing he had him murdered.
• Analysis: His attempt at deception fails because he immediately panics when the ghost reappears.

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“LORDS: Our duties, and the pledge.”

• Explanation: The lords raise their cups, playing along with Macbeth’s toast.
• Analysis: They likely suspect something is wrong but follow the king’s lead to avoid trouble.

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“MACBETH, to the Ghost: Avaunt, and quit my sight! Let the earth hide thee. Thy bones are marrowless; thy blood is cold.”

• Explanation: Macbeth reacts violently to the ghost, ordering it to go away. He insists it is lifeless and should not be able to return.
• Analysis: This further exposes his guilt and fear. His outburst confirms to the lords that something is deeply wrong with him.

“Thou hast no speculation in those eyes Which thou dost glare with.”

• Explanation: Macbeth tells the ghost that its eyes are lifeless and empty, yet it still glares at him.
• Analysis: This shows his increasing terror. He knows Banquo is dead, yet his ghost appears as if it is still conscious.
• Theme: Guilt and Madness – Macbeth’s guilt manifests through his hallucinations.

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“LADY MACBETH: Think of this, good peers, But as a thing of custom. ’Tis no other; Only it spoils the pleasure of the time.”

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth tries to calm the guests, telling them that Macbeth’s behavior is nothing unusual.
• Analysis: She is desperately trying to maintain control and cover up his breakdown.
• Theme: Appearance vs. Reality – Lady Macbeth attempts to hide the truth to protect their power.

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“MACBETH, to the Ghost: What man dare, I dare. Approach thou like the rugged Russian bear, The armed rhinoceros, or th’ Hyrcan tiger; Take any shape but that, and my firm nerves Shall never tremble.”

• Explanation: Macbeth claims he is fearless and would fight even the fiercest beasts, but Banquo’s ghost terrifies him.
• Analysis: His words show bravado, but his fear of the ghost proves that he is not as fearless as he pretends to be.
• Literary Device: Imagery – The mention of the bear, rhinoceros, and tiger emphasizes Macbeth’s attempt to appear brave.
• Theme: Power and Fear – Macbeth, a warrior, is unafraid of battle but crumbles under the weight of his guilt.

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“Or be alive again And dare me to the desert with thy sword. If trembling I inhabit then, protest me The baby of a girl.”

• Explanation: Macbeth challenges Banquo’s ghost to a duel, saying that if he is afraid, he should be considered weak like a child.
• Analysis: His insecurity about his masculinity surfaces again. He equates fear with weakness, yet he is visibly shaken.

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“Hence, horrible shadow! Unreal mock’ry, hence!” (Ghost exits.)

• Explanation: Macbeth commands the ghost to leave, and it disappears.
• Analysis: The ghost’s exit suggests it may be a hallucination. However, its presence symbolizes that Macbeth cannot escape his conscience.

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“Why so, being gone, I am a man again.—Pray you sit still.”

• Explanation: Macbeth regains his composure now that the ghost is gone.
• Analysis: His fear was so overwhelming that he felt like he lost his manhood.
• Theme: Masculinity and Power – He links being a “man” with being fearless.

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“LADY MACBETH: You have displaced the mirth, broke the good meeting With most admired disorder.”

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth scolds him for ruining the banquet.
• Analysis: Her frustration grows as she realizes Macbeth’s paranoia is making them look suspicious.

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“MACBETH: Can such things be And overcome us like a summer’s cloud, Without our special wonder?”

• Explanation: Macbeth questions how these supernatural events can happen without more reaction from others.
• Analysis: He feels isolated in his experience—Lady Macbeth does not see the ghost, which deepens his paranoia.

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“You make me strange Even to the disposition that I owe When now I think you can behold such sights And keep the natural ruby of your cheeks When mine is blanched with fear.”

• Explanation: Macbeth tells Lady Macbeth that her calmness makes him doubt himself. How can she be unaffected when he is terrified?
• Analysis: This reinforces the contrast between them—Lady Macbeth suppresses emotions, while Macbeth spirals into fear.
• Theme: Guilt and Madness – Macbeth is haunted by his conscience, while Lady Macbeth remains pragmatic.

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“ROSS: What sights, my lord?”

• Explanation: Ross asks what Macbeth is talking about.
• Analysis: This confirms that no one else can see the ghost, reinforcing the idea that it is a hallucination.

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“LADY MACBETH: I pray you, speak not. He grows worse and worse. Question enrages him. At once, good night. Stand not upon the order of your going, But go at once.”

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth quickly ends the banquet, afraid that Macbeth will say too much.
• Analysis: She tries to control the situation before he reveals their crimes.

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“LENNOX: Good night, and better health Attend his Majesty.”

• Explanation: Lennox politely wishes Macbeth well.
• Analysis: This line is ironic—his “health” is clearly failing, both mentally and emotionally.

LADY MACBETH: A kind good night to all.

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth politely dismisses the guests after the banquet.
• Analysis: She tries to maintain control and keep up appearances, despite Macbeth’s strange behavior.
• Theme: Appearance vs. Reality – She hides their guilt behind a polite farewell.

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(Lords and all but Macbeth and Lady Macbeth exit.)

• Explanation: The guests leave, leaving Macbeth and Lady Macbeth alone.
• Analysis: This signals a shift in tone—now, Macbeth can express his true fears and paranoia.

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MACBETH: It will have blood, they say; blood will have blood.

• Explanation: Macbeth states a common belief: violence leads to more violence.
• Analysis: Macbeth realizes that his crimes will come back to haunt him. He believes that murder demands revenge.
• Literary Device: Repetition – “blood will have blood” emphasizes the cycle of violence.
• Theme: Fate and Consequences – Macbeth knows his actions will have consequences.

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Stones have been known to move, and trees to speak.

• Explanation: Macbeth refers to unnatural occurrences, where stones move and trees speak.
• Analysis: He is afraid that even nature itself is reacting to his crimes.
• Literary Device: Personification – Giving human traits to stones and trees.
• Theme: Supernatural and Fate – Macbeth believes that unnatural things will reveal his guilt.

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Augurs and understood relations have

By maggot pies and choughs and rooks brought forth

The secret’st man of blood.

• Explanation: Macbeth talks about omens and birds (maggot pies, choughs, and rooks) revealing secrets.
• Analysis: In Shakespeare’s time, people believed that birds could sense hidden crimes. Macbeth fears that his guilt will be exposed.
• Literary Device: Imagery – The mention of dark birds creates a foreboding image.
• Theme: Guilt and Paranoia – Macbeth feels haunted by the possibility of discovery.

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—What is the night?

• Explanation: Macbeth asks how late it is.
• Analysis: He is so consumed by his thoughts that he has lost track of time.

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LADY MACBETH: Almost at odds with morning, which is which.

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth responds that night and morning are almost indistinguishable.
• Analysis: This reflects the confusion and disorder in their world.
• Theme: Moral and Natural Disorder – Their actions have disturbed the balance of day and night.

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MACBETH: How say’st thou that Macduff denies his person

At our great bidding?

• Explanation: Macbeth asks why Macduff refused to attend the banquet.
• Analysis: Macbeth is suspicious of Macduff. He sees any absence as a sign of disloyalty.
• Theme: Paranoia and Tyranny – Macbeth sees threats everywhere.

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LADY MACBETH: Did you send to him, sir?

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth asks if Macbeth officially invited Macduff.
• Analysis: She is still practical and strategic, trying to manage the situation.

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MACBETH: I hear it by the way; but I will send.

• Explanation: Macbeth says he only heard about Macduff’s absence through rumors, but he will check.
• Analysis: Macbeth doesn’t trust anyone anymore—he now relies on spies and suspicion.

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There’s not a one of them but in his house I keep a servant fee’d.

• Explanation: Macbeth reveals that he has spies in every nobleman’s house.
• Analysis: He is becoming more like a tyrant, controlling people through fear and surveillance.
• Theme: Paranoia and Tyranny – He doesn’t trust his allies anymore.

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I will tomorrow (And betimes I will) to the Weïrd Sisters.

• Explanation: Macbeth decides to visit the witches again first thing in the morning.
• Analysis: His obsession with fate and prophecy is growing.
• Theme: Supernatural and Fate – He believes the witches hold the key to his future.

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More shall they speak, for now I am bent to know

By the worst means the worst.

• Explanation: Macbeth wants the witches to tell him everything, no matter how dark.
• Analysis: He is now actively seeking evil for answers, showing his moral decline.
• Theme: Ambition and Corruption – He is willing to go to any lengths for power.

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For mine own good, All causes shall give way.

• Explanation: Macbeth declares that he will do whatever benefits himself.
• Analysis: He is completely selfish now, no longer considering morals or consequences.
• Theme: Moral Corruption – He acts only for his own power.

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I am in blood

Stepped in so far that, should I wade no more,

Returning were as tedious as go o’er.

• Explanation: Macbeth compares his journey through crime to wading through a river of blood. He says turning back now would be just as hard as moving forward.
• Analysis: This is a key moment—he fully commits to violence.
• Literary Device: Metaphor – Murder is compared to wading through a river.
• Theme: Guilt and Consequences – Macbeth realizes he is trapped by his own actions.

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Strange things I have in head that will to hand,

Which must be acted ere they may be scanned.

• Explanation: Macbeth has dark thoughts that he wants to act on immediately, without overthinking.
• Analysis: He is becoming reckless and impulsive.
• Theme: Impulsiveness and Tyranny – He no longer hesitates before committing crimes.

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LADY MACBETH: You lack the season of all natures, sleep.

• Explanation: Lady Macbeth tells him he needs sleep.
• Analysis: She sees that his paranoia is consuming him.
• Theme: Sleep and Guilt – In Macbeth, sleep represents peace and innocence, both of which they have lost.

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MACBETH: Come, we’ll to sleep. My strange and self-abuse

Is the initiate fear that wants hard use.

We are yet but young in deed.

• Explanation: Macbeth convinces himself that his fear will go away with more experience in crime.
• Analysis: He believes that the more he kills, the easier it will get.
• Theme: Moral Corruption and Violence – He is desensitizing himself to murder.
• Literary Device: Metaphor – He compares fear to something that needs training.

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(They exit.)

• Explanation: Macbeth and Lady Macbeth go to bed.
• Analysis: Though he agrees to sleep, his mind is still restless.