Macbeth by William Shakespeare | Act 2, Scene 4 Summary & Analysis

Summary

In Act 2, Scene 4 of *Macbeth*, Ross, a Thane, and an old man discuss ominous signs following King Duncan's murder, including chaos among the king's horses. Macduff arrives, revealing that Malcolm and Donalbain are suspected of the murder as they fled the country. He also informs Ross that Macbeth is heading to Scone for his coronation, while Duncan's body is on its way to burial. Macduff's decision to avoid the coronation hints at his suspicions about the new king. The scene underscores a dark atmosphere in Scotland, with strange events reflecting the unnaturalness of Duncan's death.

Takeaways

• 🌌 Ross and an old man discuss the ominous signs following King Duncan's murder, highlighting a sense of foreboding in the atmosphere.
• 🐎 Ross mentions that the king's horses ran wild and escaped their stables after Duncan's death, symbolizing chaos in the kingdom.
• 🍽️ The old man adds that the horses even resorted to cannibalism, reflecting the unnatural events occurring after the king's murder.
• 🕵️ Macduff arrives with news that Malcolm and Donalbain are suspects in Duncan's murder since they fled the country.
• 👑 Macbeth is on his way to Scone to be crowned king, marking a significant shift in power after Duncan's assassination.
• ⚰️ Duncan's body is being transported for burial, indicating the finality of his death and the transition in leadership.
• 🏠 Macduff decides not to attend Macbeth's coronation, hinting at his discontent with the new king and his suspicions.
• 🚶 Ross continues toward the coronation, showcasing a divide in opinions regarding Macbeth's ascension.
• 🌧️ The atmosphere remains eerie and filled with bad omens, underscoring the themes of unnatural events in the play.
• 🔍 Macduff's cautious words about the fleeing suspects suggest he is not fully convinced of their guilt, indicating his own skepticism.

Q & A

What does Ross mean when he refers to the darkness in the country?

Ross highlights both a literal and symbolic darkness that has enveloped the country since King Duncan's murder, suggesting a moral and political decay.

How does the behavior of the king's horses reflect the state of the kingdom?

The wild behavior and cannibalism of the horses symbolize the chaos and unnatural events that have unfolded following Duncan's death, indicating a breakdown of order.

What do Malcolm and Donalbain's actions imply about the political situation?

Their decision to flee the country positions them as suspects in Duncan's murder, highlighting the treachery and suspicion that have permeated the court.

Why does Macduff choose not to attend Macbeth's coronation?

Macduff's refusal to attend signifies his distrust and distaste for Macbeth, suggesting he may have suspicions about the new king's role in Duncan's murder.

How do the witches contribute to the atmosphere of the scenes surrounding Duncan's murder?

Although the witches are not present in this scene, their sinister influence is felt through the strange events and ominous mood described by characters like Ross and Macduff.

What does Ross's address of the old man as 'father' indicate?

Ross’s use of 'father' could indicate respect for the old man's age or wisdom, showcasing the themes of generational wisdom and the gravity of their conversation.

How does the weather reflect the turmoil in Scotland after Duncan's murder?

The eerie and strange weather patterns symbolize the disruption in the natural order following Duncan's assassination, aligning with the play's themes of chaos and moral corruption.

What is the significance of Macduff's arrival in this scene?

Macduff’s arrival introduces crucial information regarding the aftermath of Duncan's death and sets the stage for the unfolding political tension, emphasizing his role as a noble character.

What does the phrase 'suspicion has been put upon them' imply about Macduff's view of Malcolm and Donalbain?

This phrase suggests that while Macduff acknowledges the public's suspicion towards them, he personally may not fully believe they are guilty, hinting at his critical and skeptical nature.

What underlying themes are present in this scene related to power and morality?

The themes of power struggle, betrayal, and the moral implications of ambition are central, illustrating how the quest for power can lead to chaos and the degradation of ethical standards.