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Macbeth, Act 5, Scene 7 summary

Act 5, Scene 7 of 28 · 2 min to read the scene

In Act 5, Scene 7, Macbeth kills Young Siward and takes confidence from his belief that no man born of a woman can harm him, while Macduff searches for him to avenge his family. Siward reports that the castle has surrendered and Macbeth’s forces are divided, bringing Malcolm close to victory.

What happens

  1. Macbeth feels trapped but says he fears only a man not born of a woman.
  2. Young Siward challenges Macbeth, fights him, and is killed.
  3. Macbeth treats his opponent’s death as confirmation that ordinary men pose no danger to him.
  4. Macduff searches for Macbeth, insisting that he must personally avenge his wife and children.
  5. Siward reports the castle’s surrender, and Malcolm says some enemies deliberately miss their targets before both head inside.

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In this scene

What to notice

Macbeth limits his fear to someone not born of a woman. This belief shapes his response to battle and his confidence after killing Young Siward.

Quick check

Why does Macduff insist on finding Macbeth himself?

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