Chapter 3
Scene I opens with Banquo reflecting on the witches’ prophecy and fearing Macbeth’s “foul” ascent. Macbeth enters, hosts a feast, and openly admits his deep anxiety about Banquo’s lineage. He summons two murderers, promising them gold, and instructs them to eliminate Banquo and his son Fleance that night, offering detailed instructions on where to strike.
Scene II shifts to Lady Macbeth, who inquires about Banquo’s whereabouts and urges Macbeth to appear cheerful at the banquet. Macbeth reveals his paranoia, likening his situation to a “scarred snake,” and confesses that Banquo still lives, foreshadowing the murders he has arranged.
In Scene III the three murderers discuss their orders. Banquo and Fleance ride past a gate; the murderers ambush them. Banquo is stabbed to death, pleading for Fleance to flee. Fleance manages to escape into the night, leaving the murderers to realize they have only partially succeeded.
Scene IV returns to the banquet. As the guests dine, Macbeth sees Banquo’s ghost seated in his place. He is overtaken by terror, calls for the ghost to be removed, and his erratic behavior disrupts the feast. Lady Macbeth attempts to steady the situation, claiming her husband’s illness and urging the guests to ignore his outburst. Macbeth engages in a soliloquy about blood, fate, and the “blood that will have blood,” repeatedly confronting the apparition until it vanishes. He temporarily regains composure, drinks, and tries to resume the celebration, but the ghost reappears, prompting another frantic outburst. The banquet collapses, and the guests depart.
Scene V features the three witches meeting Hecate, who chastises them for acting without her guidance. She declares she will devise new spells and apparitions to confuse Macbeth further, outlining a plan to deliver him “artificial sprites” that will mislead him and seal his downfall.
Scene VI presents Lennox and another lord discussing recent events. They note Macduff’s flight to England to seek aid from King Edward, the growing unrest, and the king’s preparation for war. Their conversation underscores the political fallout of Macbeth’s tyrannical actions and the rising opposition.