Macbeth by William Shakespeare | Act 3, Scene 2 Summary & Analysis

Summary

In Act 3 Scene 2 of Macbeth, Lady Macbeth learns of Banquo's departure and is urged by Macbeth to hide their guilt over Duncan's murder. Macbeth hints at eliminating Banquo and Fleance, yet keeps his plans secret, a shift from their previous collaborative approach. Lady Macbeth senses a change in their marriage, noting their unhappiness despite the crown, and Macbeth's increasing distance. She dismisses his concerns about Duncan, which are now overshadowed by his fear of Banquo as a growing threat.

Takeaways

• 👑 Lady Macbeth encourages Macbeth to hide any guilt about Duncan's murder, showing her continued support in their pursuit of power.
• 🔍 Macbeth expresses his concerns about Banquo and Fleance, indicating that he sees them as a threat to his rule.
• 🤫 Macbeth plans to eliminate the threat posed by Banquo and Fleance but chooses to keep the details of his plan secret from Lady Macbeth.
• 😊 He urges Lady Macbeth to be cheerful and kind to Banquo during the banquet, which is a strategic move to lull Banquo into a false sense of security.
• 👑💔 There is a change in Lady Macbeth's role and the dynamics of their marriage; she feels they are not as happy now that they have the crown.
• 😔 Lady Macbeth notes Macbeth's distance and expresses concern about their relationship, which shows a shift from their previous unity.
• 🤔 Macbeth is revealed to be more worried about Banquo than about the consequences of Duncan's murder, indicating a deeper level of paranoia.
• 🤐 The secrecy about his plans represents a departure from their previous collaborative approach to plotting and power.
• 🎭 The script is from Act 3, Scene 2 of 'Macbeth', highlighting a pivotal moment in the play's development.
• 🍽️ The banquet setting is used as a backdrop for Macbeth's machinations, adding a layer of irony to the event.
• 👥 The focus on Banquo and Fleance suggests that Macbeth's fear of prophecy and his desire to secure his rule are driving his actions.

Q & A

What does Lady Macbeth confirm in Act 3, Scene 2 of Macbeth?

Lady Macbeth confirms that Banquo has left the court.

What does Macbeth ask Lady Macbeth to do regarding Banquo during the banquet?

Macbeth asks Lady Macbeth to be cheerful and kind to Banquo to make him feel secure.

What does Macbeth hint at to Lady Macbeth regarding his plans for Banquo and Fleance?

Macbeth hints that he plans to eliminate the threat that Banquo and Fleance present, but he does not reveal the details to Lady Macbeth.

How has Lady Macbeth's role in the marriage changed according to the script?

Lady Macbeth's role has changed as she comments that they are not entirely happy now that they have the crown, and she feels that Macbeth is being distant.

What does Lady Macbeth repeatedly tell Macbeth not to worry about?

Lady Macbeth repeatedly tells Macbeth not to worry about Duncan, which is not what he is concerned about at this point.

What is the main concern of Macbeth that he reveals to Lady Macbeth?

Macbeth reveals to Lady Macbeth that he is more worried about Banquo as a threat.

How does Macbeth's secrecy about his plans for Banquo differ from his previous relationship with Lady Macbeth?

The secrecy represents a departure from their previous relationship where they used to make plans together.

What is the significance of Macbeth's plan to eliminate Banquo and Fleance?

The plan signifies Macbeth's growing paranoia and his willingness to commit further acts of violence to secure his power.

How does the script suggest that Macbeth's relationship with Lady Macbeth is strained?

The script suggests a strained relationship as Macbeth is distant and secretive, and Lady Macbeth feels they are not entirely happy despite having the crown.

What is the purpose of Lady Macbeth's cheerfulness and kindness towards Banquo during the banquet?

The purpose is to lure Banquo into a false sense of security, making him an easier target for Macbeth's planned treachery.

How does the script reflect the theme of guilt and its effects on Macbeth?

The script reflects the theme of guilt through Macbeth's inability to bury his guilt over Duncan's murder and his growing fear and paranoia about Banquo.