Macbeth Summary and Analysis

What title is Macbeth granted after his bravery in battle?

What do the witches predict for Banquo?

How does Lady Macbeth contribute to King Duncan's murder?

What excuse does Macbeth give for killing King Duncan's servants?

What happens to Malcolm and Donalbain after King Duncan's death?

What does Banquo's ghost do at the royal feast?

What are the witches' second predictions for Macbeth's safety?

Who is Macbeth instructed to beware of by the witches?

What does Macbeth feel as the witches' predictions begin to come true?

What ultimately happens to Fleance during Macbeth's plan to kill him?

Macbeth Summary

Macbeth, Thane of Glamis, meets three witches who predict his future as Thane of Cawdor and king.
The King names Macbeth Thane of Cawdor, fulfilling one prophecy.
Lady Macbeth urges Macbeth to kill King Duncan to seize the throne.
Macbeth murders Duncan, framing the King's servants.
Malcolm and Donalbain, Duncan's sons, flee for fear of assassination.
Macbeth is crowned king.
Macbeth fears Banquo and his son Fleance, ordering their assassination.
Banquo is killed, but Fleance escapes.
Macbeth's guilt manifests as hallucinations of Banquo's ghost at a royal feast.
Macbeth consults the witches again for further guidance.
The witches predict Macbeth's invincibility, and his safety until trees walk, and that no one born of woman will harm him. He is warned to beware of Macduff.

Macbeth's Downfall

Macduff seeks help in England from Malcolm, Duncan's son.
Macduff, not born of woman, kills Macbeth in battle.
Malcolm is crowned king.
Lady Macbeth commits suicide, overwhelmed by guilt.
Macbeth's reign is highlighted by murder, manipulation, and paranoia.
The play explores themes of ambition, guilt, and the corrupting influence of power.

Explore the key events and themes of Shakespeare's 'Macbeth'. This summary delves into Macbeth's rise to power, his descent into madness, and the consequences of his ambition. Discover how fate, free will, and guilt play crucial roles in his tragic downfall.