Overview
Act 2 Scene 3 of Macbeth covers the discovery of King Duncan's murder, the reactions of the castle's inhabitants, and the first seeds of suspicion toward Macbeth.
The Porter and Early Morning Events
- The Porter, hungover, slowly answers repeated knocking at Macbeth's castle gate.
- Macduff and Lennox enter, annoyed at the Porter's delay.
- Macbeth greets them, stating the king is still asleep.
- Macduff leaves to awaken King Duncan as requested.
Discovery of the Murder
- While waiting, Lennox describes the violent storm from the night before.
- Macduff finds Duncan murdered and raises the alarm, summoning everyone.
- Macbeth and Lennox rush to Duncan’s room; Lady Macbeth appears, feigning ignorance.
Reactions and Suspicions
- Macduff tells Lady Macbeth the scene is too horrible for a woman.
- Banquo enters and learns of Duncan’s murder.
- Lennox states Duncan’s guards were found covered in blood and with their daggers.
- Macbeth claims he killed the guards out of rage and loyalty to Duncan.
- Macduff questions Macbeth's actions, becoming the first to distrust him.
- Lady Macbeth faints, likely as a distraction from suspicions.
The King's Sons and Their Escape
- Malcolm and Donalbain decide to flee Scotland, fearing for their safety.
- Malcolm plans to escape to England; Donalbain to Ireland.
- They distrust the other noblemen, believing the murderer could feign any emotion.
Literary Devices and Irony
- The Porter's crude jokes about drunkenness and impotence contrast with Lady Macbeth's earlier challenges to Macbeth's masculinity.
- Lennox's small talk about the weather mirrors earlier conversations about omens and the unnatural.
- Macduff's claim that murder is too gruesome for Lady Macbeth is ironic, as she planned the murder herself.
- Lady Macbeth uses traditional feminine behavior strategically to deflect suspicion.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Porter — Castle doorkeeper who provides comic relief and commentary on events.
- Dramatic irony — When the audience knows more than the characters; e.g., Lady Macbeth acting shocked by the murder she helped plan.
- Thane — Scottish nobleman.
- Irony — A contrast between expectation and reality, used here for dramatic effect.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review Act 2 Scene 4 for fallout after Duncan’s death.
- Prepare notes on character motivations and themes of suspicion for discussion.