Act 3 Analysis

Act 3 Overview

• Act 3 marks Macbeth's transition from a guilt-ridden murderer to a ruthless tyrant.
• He becomes paranoid and obsessed with securing his throne, leading him to plot more murders.
• The supernatural theme continues, as Banquo's ghost haunts Macbeth.
• The power dynamic between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth shifts, with Macbeth now taking the lead in planning.

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Scene 1: Macbeth Plans Banquo's Murder

Summary: What Happens?

• Banquo suspects that Macbeth killed Duncan.
• Macbeth invites Banquo to a royal feast but secretly fears him.
• The witches' prophecy foretold that Banquo's descendants would rule, making Banquo a threat.
• Macbeth hires two murderers to kill Banquo and Fleance.

Key Themes

• Ambition and Paranoia – Macbeth feels insecure despite being king.
• Fate vs. Free Will – Macbeth tries to prevent the witches' prophecy from coming true.
• Power and Betrayal – Macbeth betrays his former friend to secure his rule.

Key Quote

"To be thus is nothing, but to be safely thus. – Macbeth"

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Scene 2: Lady Macbeth's Unease

Summary: What Happens?

• Lady Macbeth expresses doubt and unease, realising they are not at peace.
• Macbeth hides his plans from her, showing a power shift.
• Macbeth hints at another murder but refuses to tell Lady Macbeth.

Key Themes

• Guilt and Restlessness – Neither Macbeth nor Lady Macbeth can enjoy their success.
• Shift in Power – Macbeth no longer seeks Lady Macbeth's advice.

Key Quote

"O, full of scorpions is my mind, dear wife! – Macbeth"

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Scene 3: Banquo's Murder

Summary: What Happens?

• The two murderers ambush Banquo but fail to kill Fleance, who escapes.
• Macbeth's attempt to control fate fails, leaving him more paranoid.

Key Themes

• Fate vs. Free Will – Macbeth's effort to change fate is incomplete.
• Paranoia and Violence – Macbeth's descent into tyranny deepens.

Key Quote

"Thou mayst revenge – O slave! – Banquo"

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Scene 4: Banquo's Ghost at the Banquet

Summary: What Happens?

• During the royal feast, Macbeth sees Banquo's ghost, causing him to panic.
• Lady Macbeth tries to calm him, but the nobles begin to suspect something is wrong.
• Macbeth questions his sanity and decides to consult the witches again.

Key Themes

• Guilt and Hallucinations – Banquo's ghost symbolises Macbeth's torment.
• Public vs. Private Guilt – Macbeth's breakdown in front of the nobles weakens his authority.
• Supernatural Influence – Macbeth's paranoia worsens as he loses control.

Key Quote

"Thou canst not say I did it; never shake thy gory locks at me! – Macbeth"

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Scene 5: Hecate's Intervention

Summary: What Happens?

• Hecate, the goddess of witchcraft, is angry that the witches acted without her.
• She plans to lead Macbeth further into his downfall by making him overconfident.

Key Themes

• Fate and Manipulation – The witches intend to mislead Macbeth.
• Overconfidence and Tragic Flaw – Macbeth's belief in his invincibility will be his downfall.

Key Quote

"And you all know, security is mortals' chiefest enemy. – Hecate"

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Scene 6: Growing Suspicion

Summary: What Happens?

• Lennox and another lord suspect Macbeth's role in the murders.
• Macduff has fled to England to seek help from Malcolm.
• Macbeth is beginning to lose support among the Scottish lords.

Key Themes

• Tyranny vs. Justice – Macbeth's rule is becoming oppressive.
• Resistance and Revenge – The opposition to Macbeth is forming.

Key Quote

"Some holy angel fly to the court of England and unfold his message ere he come. – Lennox"

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Key Themes in Act 3

1. Paranoia and Tyranny – Macbeth loses trust in everyone and becomes more violent.
2. Fate vs. Free Will – Macbeth's attempts to control fate backfire.
3. Supernatural Influence – The witches continue to manipulate Macbeth.
4. Guilt and Madness – Banquo's ghost reflects Macbeth's internal torment.
5. Loss of Support – Scottish nobles begin to turn against Macbeth.

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Exam Tips

• Be able to identify key quotes and explain their significance.
• Understand how literary devices (dramatic irony, symbolism, foreshadowing) are used.
• Analyse Macbeth's character shifts from hesitant to ruthless.
• Consider how Act 3 builds tension and sets up later conflicts.
• Structure essay responses with an introduction, body, and conclusion.

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