Act 3, Scene 1 Summary

Banquo, speaking in soliloquy, acknowledges t he Witches' prophecy. Perhaps his own prophecy will come true- for although Macbeth is King, he, not Macbeth, will become the father of kings. Macbeth, as King, and Lady Macbeth, as Queen, now enter with a royal entourage. Banquo will be the chief guest at their celebration feast. He will attend in the evening, but he has a long ride to make in the afternoon. Duncan's sons are in England and Ireland denying they have murdered their father. Macbeth has an attendant summon his men from beyond the palace gate. Alone, he speaks of his fear of Banquo. He is aware that the Witches' prophecy, although giving him Kingship, stripped him of his lineage. He now hires two murderers to dispatch Banquo and his son.

Act 3, Scene 1 Analysis

Banquo and Macbeth have suspicions about each...