Macbeth Act 3, Scene 1-6 Summary

This page provides a detailed summary of Macbeth Act 3 PDF, covering all six scenes of this crucial act in Shakespeare's tragedy.

In Scene 1, Banquo's suspicions about Macbeth's involvement in Duncan's murder are evident. Macbeth, now king, invites Banquo to a feast, positioning him as the guest of honor. However, Macbeth's paranoia about the witches' prophecy regarding Banquo's descendants becoming kings leads him to a sinister decision. He meets with two hired murderers and convinces them to assassinate both Banquo and his son, Fleance.

Highlight: Macbeth's decision to kill Banquo marks a turning point in his character, showing his descent into tyranny.

Scene 2 delves into Macbeth's psychological state. He confides in Lady Macbeth, expressing his overwhelming guilt and fear stemming from his heinous actions. This scene provides insight into the toll that their crimes are taking on both Macbeth and his wife.

Quote: "O, full of scorpions is my mind, dear wife!"

In Scene 3, the plot thickens as three murderers (not just the two Macbeth hired) ambush and kill Banquo during a hunting trip. However, Fleance manages to escape, partially thwarting Macbeth's plan.

Scene 4 presents the dramatic climax of Act 3. During the feast, Macbeth is visibly disturbed by news of Fleance's escape. His guilt and fear manifest in a shocking hallucination – he sees Banquo's ghost sitting at the table. This causes Macbeth to behave erratically, alarming the guests. Lady Macbeth attempts to salvage the situation by assuring everyone that Macbeth is simply unwell. After the guests depart, a shaken Macbeth vows to eliminate all threats to his rule and decides to consult the witches again about his fate.

Example: Macbeth's vision of Banquo's ghost serves as a powerful representation of his guilty conscience and growing instability.

Scene 5 introduces a new supernatural element. The goddess Hecate appears, expressing her anger at the witches for their interactions with Macbeth. She promises to use her magic to bring about Macbeth's downfall, adding another layer of foreboding to the unfolding tragedy.

Vocabulary: Hecate - In Greek mythology, the goddess of magic, witchcraft, and the night.

Finally, Scene 6 reveals the growing opposition to Macbeth's rule. Lennox, a Scottish lord, discloses that Malcolm (Duncan's son) and Macduff are planning to join forces in England to overthrow Macbeth. This scene sets the stage for the conflict that will dominate the rest of the play.

Definition: Tyranny - Cruel and oppressive rule or government, typically by someone who has absolute power.

This Macbeth Act 3 summary showcases the rapid deterioration of Macbeth's character and the mounting consequences of his actions. The act is pivotal in the play's structure, marking the transition from Macbeth as a conflicted usurper to a full-fledged tyrant, while also sowing the seeds of rebellion that will lead to his eventual downfall.