Macbeth, Act 3, Scene 1 summary
Act 3, Scene 1 of 28 · 6 min to read the scene
In Act 3, Scene 1, Banquo suspects Macbeth of gaining power through murder, while Macbeth fears the prophecy that makes Banquo the ancestor of kings. Macbeth invites him to supper, learns his travel plans, and secretly orders two murderers to kill both Banquo and Fleance that night.
What happens
- Banquo suspects Macbeth of wrongdoing and hopes the prophecy about his own descendants also proves true.
- Macbeth invites Banquo to supper and learns that Fleance accompanies him on his afternoon ride.
- Alone, Macbeth fears Banquo and resents gaining a crown that his own children cannot inherit.
- Macbeth blames Banquo for the murderers’ poverty and challenges their courage until they agree to act.
- Macbeth orders both Banquo and Fleance killed away from the palace that night, while keeping his own involvement hidden.
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In this scene
What to notice
Macbeth makes security the condition of enjoying power. His fear drives him to arrange another killing rather than rest in his new position.
Quick check
Why does Macbeth avoid ordering Banquo’s death openly?
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