Passage Analysis for Act 3, Scene 1: (passage 83-160)
This passage carries huge significance as it illustrates how Macbeth has changed after murdering Duncan. It also revolves around the themes of betrayal and trust, loyalty and tyranny, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. In passage 83, Macbeth is talking to the murderers about murdering Banquo and Fleance. He does this without consulting Lady Macbeth. During the murder of King Duncan, Macbeth was hesitant, doubtful, and afraid. However, in this scene, it is evident that Macbeth is very clear with his intentions and wants no one to get in the way of his throne. Macbeth’s independency is portrayed in this passage as he commands the murderers with ease. This passage also portrays the recurring theme of trust and betrayal. Banquo tells Macbeth that he will be riding horses with Fleance. Even though Banquo believes that Macbeth murdered Duncan, he does not fear his own safety. Banquo easily gives away his location and this makes it easier for him to be murdered. Banquo trusts Macbeth and Macbeth takes advantage of his trust by murdering him for a “fruitless reign.” This revolves around the theme of trust and betrayal.
Passage Analysis for Act 3, Scene 1 (lines 6-30)
This passage carries huge significance as it shows that despite gaining power, the Macbeth’s are still unhappy. Lady Macbeth admits that attaining the throne has not resulted in happiness or peace of mind. She expresses her sadness when she states that “tis safer to be that which we destroy/ than by destruction dwell in doubtful joy.” (3.1.6-10) She is saying that it better to be the one who gets murdered than to be the murderer because of the anxiety, guilt, and doubt that it leads to. Macbeth enters and he too reveals that his mind has been tortured with fears of Banquo. He states that his “mind is full of scorpions.” This indicates that life for Macbeth is worsening as he continues to commit crimes. It is getting easier to murder, however, it is tormenting him more doubt, anxiety, and guilt. This passage suggests that despite having power and authority, one can never reach peace when success is achieved through dubious means.
Passage Analysis for Act 3, Scene 5 (lines 1-30)
Although some believe that this passage wasn’t written by Shakespeare, it still contains some important lines that foreshadow events that might occur further on in the play. Hecate reveals that she is planning to destroy Macbeth by filling him with over-confidence because “security is mortals’ chiefest enemy.” (line 30) Hecate indicates that Macbeth will continue to commit more evil as he will be fueled by the over confidence. This hints that perhaps Macbeth will murder someone important in the next acts. It also suggests that some supernatural forces will never let Macbeth enjoy his reign as he will constantly be faced with troubles. Hecate states that she will “raise such artificial sprites” that will “draw Macbeth onto his confusion.” This suggests that Macbeth will be tormented with more anxiety and guilt. This passage shows just how severe the consequences can be when one is misled by unchecked ambition.
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