Macbeth, Act 5, Scene 5 summary
Act 5, Scene 5 of 28 · 2 min to read the scene
In Act 5, Scene 5, Macbeth trusts the castle’s defenses, hears that the Queen is dead, and describes life as empty and brief. A Messenger reports that Birnam forest appears to move toward Dunsinane, shaking Macbeth’s trust in the promise of safety and prompting him to order an armed advance.
What happens
- Macbeth orders flags onto the walls and declares that the castle can withstand a siege.
- Women cry inside, and Macbeth says that familiar horrors no longer frighten him.
- Seyton announces the Queen’s death, and Macbeth reflects on time, death, and life’s lack of meaning.
- A Messenger reports seeing Birnam forest moving toward the castle.
- Macbeth doubts the promise protecting him, orders his men to march, and faces destruction in armor.
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In this scene
What to notice
Macbeth presents life as empty despite its turmoil. The line captures his response to the Queen’s death.
Quick check
What makes Macbeth begin to doubt the promise of safety?
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