Macbeth, Act 4, Scene 3 summary

What happens

1. Malcolm suspects Macduff may serve Macbeth and tests him by claiming limitless lust, greed, and a complete lack of royal virtues.
2. Macduff rejects such a ruler, convincing Malcolm of his honesty; Malcolm retracts his claims and announces Siward’s military preparations.
3. A doctor describes the English king’s healing touch, and Malcolm adds that the king possesses prophetic powers.
4. Ross describes Scotland’s suffering and urges action, while Malcolm confirms support from Siward and ten thousand soldiers.
5. After evasive answers, Ross tells Macduff that his wife, children, and servants are slaughtered.
6. Macduff insists on feeling his grief and seeks a confrontation with Macbeth; Malcolm leads them toward the king.

In this scene

What to notice

Macduff rejects the idea that courage excludes grief. His response joins emotional honesty to his desire to fight Macbeth.

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