Macbeth, Act 3, Scene 4 summary

What happens

1. Macbeth welcomes the guests, then hears from the murderer that Banquo is dead and Fleance escapes.
2. Banquo’s ghost occupies Macbeth’s seat, and Macbeth addresses it while Lady Macbeth explains his behavior as a familiar illness.
3. The ghost disappears, but returns during Macbeth’s toast to Banquo, provoking another frightened outburst.
4. Lady Macbeth stops the guests from questioning Macbeth and sends everyone away without observing rank.
5. Macbeth discusses Macduff’s refusal to attend, reveals his paid spies, and decides to consult the Weird Sisters.
6. Lady Macbeth urges sleep, while Macbeth treats his fears as inexperience and commits himself to further action.

In this scene

What to notice

Macbeth presents further violence as no harder than retreat. This explains his decision to pursue dangerous knowledge and act on his plans.

Quick check