Macbeth, Act 1, Scene 3 summary
Act 1, Scene 3 of 28 · 6 min to read the scene
In Act 1, Scene 3, three witches predict kingship for Macbeth and royal descendants for Banquo, then vanish before explaining themselves. Ross confirms Macbeth’s new title as Thane of Cawdor, making the prophecy seem credible and stirring thoughts of murder that frighten Macbeth.
What happens
- The witches discuss tormenting a sailor and prepare a spell as Macbeth approaches.
- They greet Macbeth with two titles and a prediction of kingship, then tell Banquo that his descendants become kings.
- Macbeth demands an explanation, but the witches vanish.
- Ross and Angus bring royal thanks and confirm that Macbeth receives the condemned Thane of Cawdor’s title.
- Banquo warns against trusting supernatural promises, while Macbeth privately struggles with a frightening thought of murder.
- Macbeth considers letting fate act without his help, then joins the others in going to the King.
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In this scene
What to notice
Macbeth weighs passive trust in fate against the disturbing thought of murder. The prediction opens a conflict between promised power and personal action.
Quick check
What makes the witches’ prediction seem credible to Macbeth?
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