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Macbeth, Act 2, Scene 3 summary

Act 2, Scene 3 of 28 · 6 min to read the scene

In Act 2, Scene 3, Macduff discovers Duncan's murder, and Macbeth admits killing the attendants whom Lennox identifies as the apparent killers. While the household agrees to investigate, Malcolm and Donalbain distrust the grief around them and decide to leave separately for England and Ireland to protect themselves.

What happens

  1. The porter imagines admitting sinners to hell before opening the gate to Macduff and Lennox.
  2. Macbeth directs Macduff to the King's room while Lennox describes a violent night filled with disturbing signs.
  3. Macduff discovers the murder, raises the alarm, and tells the gathering household that their king is dead.
  4. Lennox blames the bloodstained attendants, and Macbeth admits killing them, claiming that love and fury overcome his judgment.
  5. Lady Macbeth asks for help and is carried away; Banquo proposes an investigation, and the others agree.
  6. Malcolm and Donalbain privately decide to escape to England and Ireland because they fear further violence.

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In this scene

MacbethLady MacbethBanquoMacduffMalcolmDuncan

What to notice

Malcolm separates outward grief from genuine feeling. His distrust explains why he avoids the proposed meeting and chooses escape.

Quick check

Why do Malcolm and Donalbain choose different destinations?

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