Macbeth by William Shakespeare | Act 5, Scene 7 Summary & Analysis

Summary

In Act 5, Scene 7 of Macbeth, the tension peaks during battle as Macbeth confronts his fate. Despite feeling cornered, he clings to the prophecy that no one born of a woman can harm him, further fueled by his arrogance. His encounter with Macduff's son leads to a grim realization when he kills him, mistakenly believing the prophecy protects him. As the chaos unfolds, Macbeth's blind faith in destiny drives him deeper into his tragic downfall, showcasing the play's themes of ambition and fate.

Takeaways

• ⚔️ The setting of Act 5, Scene 7 of *Macbeth* is a battlefield where Macbeth is cornered yet continues to fight.
• 🔮 Macbeth holds on to the prophecy that no person born of a woman can harm him, giving him a false sense of security.
• 👦 Macbeth kills Young Siward, believing that this act proves the prophecy since he assumes all men are born of women.
• 🏃‍♂️ After killing Young Siward, Macbeth flees before Macduff arrives, highlighting his desperation.
• 💔 Macduff is determined to avenge his family's murder and pursues Macbeth relentlessly.
• 🌳 Despite the prophecy regarding the moving woods not coming true, Macbeth still trusts in the second prophecy.
• ⚡ Macbeth's reliance on the prophecy shows his continued blind allegiance to a twisted sense of destiny.
• 🦅 Macbeth's ability to kill seabirds signifies his delusions of power and arrogance amid chaos.
• ⚖️ The scene illustrates the themes of fate versus free will, as Macbeth clings to a prophecy while ignoring reality.
• 🔚 The chaos of battle reflects Macbeth's internal struggle and the consequences of his hubris.

Q & A

What is the setting of Act 5, Scene 7 of Macbeth?

The scene takes place in the midst of a battle where Macbeth is cornered.

What comfort does Macbeth find during the battle?

Macbeth finds comfort in the prophecy that no person born of a woman can harm him.

Who confronts and is killed by Macbeth?

Macbeth confronts and kills Young Siward, believing he must have been born of a woman.

What action does Macbeth take after killing Young Siward?

After killing Young Siward, Macbeth flees before Macduff arrives.

What two characters approach the castle alongside Macduff?

Seaward and Malcolm make their way toward the castle with Macduff.

What aspect of the prophecy does Macbeth cling to during the battle?

Macbeth clings to the part of the prophecy that states no one born of a woman can harm him.

How does Macbeth's belief in the prophecy affect his actions?

Macbeth's belief leads him to display arrogance and confidence, despite being in a perilous situation.

What is the significance of Macbeth's ability to kill seabirds?

Macbeth views his ability to kill seabirds as proof that the remaining prophecy is true, further fueling his arrogance.

What does Macbeth's adherence to the prophecy suggest about his character?

It suggests that he is blind to alternative meanings and is driven by his belief in fate, despite the surrounding chaos.

What does the scene reveal about Macbeth's state of mind during the battle?

The scene reveals Macbeth's delusion and reliance on the prophecy, as he remains confident in his supposed invincibility.