Act 4, Scene 3 Summary and Analysis
Act 4, Scene 3
Macduff has located Malcolm at the English court. Though they apparently have a common cause—overthrowing Macbeth—they are suspicious of one another. Macduff calls for violent action against Macbeth, but Malcolm wonders whether Macduff might be working for Macbeth. Malcolm then explains his hesitation in challenging Macbeth, saying that if he were to rule Scotland, he might be an even worse king. When Macduff replies that this is not possible, Malcolm claims that he is exceptionally lustful and would steal the wives and daughters of every thane in Scotland. When Macduff seems to think this vice can be accommodated, Malcolm adds that he is so avaricious that he would steal all their possessions as well, never being satisfied even as he takes lands, homes and jewels from all his noblemen. Macduff admits that this is bad but adds that there is a great deal of wealth in Scotland, enough even to satisfy Malcolm’s greed. Malcolm then says that he has not a single virtue, but only wants to cause harm and discord. At this, Macduff breaks down and says that Malcolm is unfit to live, let alone to rule. He bids the prince farewell.
Malcolm then reveals that he made these absurd claims to test Macduff’s integrity. If he had been a spy from Macbeth trying to lure Malcolm into a trap, it would not have mattered what the prince said. Now he knows that Macduff is honest. He takes back everything he has said about his own vices, saying that until he made these statements, he had never even told a lie before.
The thane of Ross arrives with news from Scotland, telling Malcolm and Macduff that the country is ravaged by the tyrannies of Macbeth. When Macduff inquires after his own family, Ross initially pretends that all is well, and Malcolm vows to return to Scotland aided by the armies of the English king. Eventually, Ross breaks down and admits that Macduff’s castle has been attacked and his wife, children, and all his servants slaughtered. Macduff weeps for them, but his grief soon transforms into a steely resolve to get revenge on Macbeth.
Analysis
The conversation between Macduff and Malcolm in act 4 is often cut in performance, since it unfolds at a leisurely pace in comparison with the action of the surrounding scenes. Malcolm’s extravagant descriptions of his imaginary vices are the nearest the play comes to comedy except in the words of the porter in act 2, scene 3, though the atmosphere pivots quickly back to tragedy when Macduff learns of his family’s slaughter at the end of the scene. It is at this point in the play that Macduff, formerly a relatively minor character, grows in stature through his suffering and grief to become Macbeth’s primary nemesis.
Expert Q&A
In Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth, what news does Ross deliver to Malcolm and Macduff?
In Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth, Ross delivers the devastating news to Malcolm and Macduff that Macduff's castle has been attacked, and his wife and children have been savagely murdered. This information profoundly impacts Macduff and motivates Malcolm to take immediate action against Macbeth.
What larger theme might be supported by the quote from Act 4, Scene 3 in Macbeth?
"Angels are bright still, though the brightest fell. / Though all things foul would wear the brows of grace, / Yet grace must still look so"
The quote from Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth supports the theme of illusion versus reality. Malcolm suggests that appearances can be deceiving, as even foul things can appear graceful. This idea is echoed throughout the play, such as when Lady Macbeth advises Macbeth to hide his true intentions and when the witches' prophecies mislead Macbeth. Additionally, it touches on the theme of ambition, highlighting that both good and bad leaders can be ambitious.
What is the significance of this quote from Act 4, Scene 3, of Macbeth?
"but I must also feel it as a man: I cannot but remember things were, That were most precious to me . . . . They were all struck for thee!"
The quote from Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth is significant because it highlights Macduff's grief over his family's murder and Malcolm's urging for him to channel his sorrow into revenge against Macbeth. Macduff acknowledges that while he must grieve as a man, he will also fight to defend Scotland. This moment solidifies Macduff's resolve to overthrow the tyrant Macbeth, fulfilling the witches' prophecy.
Why does Ross lie to Macduff about his children's well-being in Macbeth, Act 4, Scene 3?
Ross's misleading statement to Macduff about his family's well-being in "Macbeth" Act 4, Scene 3, is a form of dramatic irony. He uses the term "peace" to refer to their death, which the audience understands but Macduff interprets as safety. This is typical of Shakespeare's style, enhancing tension and highlighting human communication flaws. Ross, a character uncomfortable with violent emotions, may also avoid revealing the brutal truth to spare Macduff's feelings and maintain propriety.
What is the dramatic purpose of the scene between Lady Macduff and her son in Macbeth Act 4, Scene 3?
In act 4, scene 2 of Macbeth, the dramatic purpose of the short scene between Lady Macduff and her son emphasizes Macbeth's maniacal, depraved nature and establishes the rivalry between him and Macduff. The murder of Macduff's family differs from Macbeth's previous murders because it serves no specific purpose other than to satisfy his bloodlust. Macbeth seeks to gain nothing by murdering Macduff's family and does not put much thought into planning the crime.
In Macbeth, how does the speech in Act 4, Scene 3, lines 43-65 use personification to illustrate changing character viewpoints?
In Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth, personification is used to illustrate changing character viewpoints, especially Malcolm's perception of Scotland under Macbeth's rule. Malcolm describes the country as "weeping" and "bleeding," attributing human emotions and injuries to it, reflecting its suffering. He further personifies Scotland as having "vices" and being able to "suffer," highlighting the nation's oppression. These devices emphasize Malcolm's concerns and test Macduff's loyalty, revealing Malcolm's strategic thinking.
In Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth, what advice does Malcolm give Macduff about his grief?
In Act 4, Scene 3, Malcolm advises Macduff to channel his grief into action by seeking revenge against Macbeth, suggesting that their sorrow should fuel their resolve. He encourages Macduff to "dispute it like a man," implying that he should respond with strength and aggression. However, Macduff adds that while he will fight, he will also "feel it as a man," acknowledging the importance of emotions and challenging traditional gender roles. Shakespeare critiques excessive machismo through this exchange.
Why does Ross tell Macduff his family was "well at peace" in Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth?
In Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth, Ross tells Macduff his family was "well at peace" because he is reluctant to deliver the devastating news of their murder. This hesitation is due to the emotional difficulty and gravity of the message, not an intent to deceive. Ross struggles with breaking such tragic news to Macduff, who is a fierce warrior, and his reluctance is often portrayed through actors' expressions and pauses in performances.
Who is the king with the "king-becoming graces" referred to by Malcolm in Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth?
MALCOLM: But I have none: the king-becoming graces,
As justice, verity, temperance, stableness,
Bounty, perseverance, mercy, lowliness,
Devotion, patience, courage, fortitude,
I have no relish of them, but abound
In the division of each several crime,
Acting it many ways. Nay, had I power, I should
Pour the sweet milk of concord into hell,
Uproar the universal peace, confound
All unity on earth.
Malcolm refers to the "king-becoming graces" as qualities that a good king must possess, such as justice, verity, temperance, and courage. While he does not name a specific king, these traits most accurately describe his father, King Duncan. Malcolm later reveals he possesses these qualities himself, demonstrating his worthiness as Duncan's rightful heir.
What derogatory terms are used to refer to Macbeth in Act 4, Scene 3?
In Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth, derogatory terms used to describe Macbeth include "tyrant," "fiend," "devil," and a host of negative traits such as "bloody, luxurious, avaricious, false, deceitful, sudden, malicious." These terms highlight Macbeth's unpopularity and villainous nature, contrasting him with the virtuous Malcolm, who is portrayed as a deserving king. This scene emphasizes the need for a more just and honorable ruler for Scotland.
In Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth, what evidence suggests Malcolm's fitness to rule?
In Act 4, Scene 3, Malcolm's fitness to rule is demonstrated through his discernment and cautious nature. He tests Macduff's loyalty by pretending to have immoral traits, revealing his ability to judge intentions accurately. Malcolm's virtues include honesty, chastity, and a lack of greed. He has never broken a promise, illustrating his integrity. Additionally, his leadership is evident as he has convinced King Edward to support him with an army, showing his readiness to reclaim the throne.
What are the effects of a literary device in Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth?
In Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth, the use of anaphora by Malcolm, particularly through the repetition of "what," conveys determination and logical reasoning. It enhances his eloquence and confidence while also highlighting his humility and wisdom by acknowledging the need for adaptability. The anaphora, coupled with alliteration, creates a strong auditory effect, reinforcing Malcolm's decisiveness and intention to act. This use of rhetorical devices aligns with Shakespeare's interest in rhetoric, despite critiques of formalism's historical context.
What literary techniques does Shakespeare use in Macbeth act 4, scene 3 between Malcolm and Macduff?
In act 4, scene 3 of Macbeth, Shakespeare uses personification to depict Scotland as a suffering victim, appealing to Malcolm's sense of duty and patriotism. Malcolm responds with suspicion and self-deprecation, claiming he is unworthy of the throne. Macduff's persistence, invoking Malcolm's lineage, ultimately convinces him to accept his duty. This scene reflects Shakespeare's view that true ambition should be driven by duty, not personal gain.
What dramatic elements emerge at the beginning of Act 4, Scene 3 of Macbeth?
At the start of Act 4, Scene 3, Malcolm and Macduff discuss Scotland's dire state, setting a somber tone. Malcolm tests Macduff's loyalty by feigning vices worse than Macbeth's, revealing his test only after Macduff denounces such traits. This surprise element highlights Malcolm's suitability to rule. Macduff's reaction to his family's murder contrasts with Macbeth, emphasizing genuine emotion and moral integrity. The scene underscores themes of rightful leadership and moral legitimacy.
Are there any literary devices in Macbeth, act 4, scene 3, lines 115-131?
Lines 115-131 of Act 4, Scene 3 in Shakespeare's Macbeth contain literary devices such as personification, where human traits are attributed to non-human elements. While broader literary devices like plot and characterization are always present, specific devices like metaphors or allusions aren't necessarily found in every line. These lines also contribute to advancing the plot and further characterizing Malcolm and Macduff.
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