MACBETH
by William Shakespeare
(an adapted script)
CAST:
Duncan, King of Scotland
Malcolm, Duncan's son
Donalbain, Duncan's son
Macbeth, A general in the King's army. Later the King
Banquo, A general
Macduff, Nobleman of Scotland
Lennox, Nobleman of Scotland
Ross, Nobleman of Scotland
Angus, Nobleman of Scotland
Mentieth, Nobleman of Scotland Fleance, Banquo's son
A Doctor
A Sergeant
A Porter
A Messenger
A Servant
Three Murderers
Lady MacBeth
A Gentlewoman (Nurse)
Three Witches
Three Apparitions
ACT ONE
(A DESERTED HEATH IN SCOTLAND. THE YEAR IS 1040. ENTER THREE WITCHES)
1. Scene I
1st Witch
When shall we three meet again? In thunder, lightening, or in rain?
nd
2 Witch
When the hurly-burly's done, when the battle's lost and won..
3rd Witch
That will be ere the set of sun.
1st Witch
Where the place?
2nd Witch
Upon the heath.
3rd Witch
There to meet with Macbeth! (a piper is heard)
Ist Witch
I come Graymalkin! (a drum is heard)
nd
2 Witch
Paddock calls!
All
Fair is Foul and Foul is Fair! Hover through the fog and filthy air! (All witches exit)
1. Scene II
(A MILITARY CAMP NEAR FORRES, SCOTLAND. ENTER KING DUNCAN, PRINCE MALCOM, PRINCE
DONALBAIN, LENNOX AND SOME SOLDIERS. FROM THE BACKGROUND CRAWLS IN A BLEEDING
MAN).
K. Duncan
Malcolm
What Bloody man is that? He can report, as seemeth his plight, of the revolt the newest state.
T’is worthy Lennox, who like a good and hearty soldier fought against my captivity. Hail brave
friend! Say to the king thy knowledge of the broil as thou didst leave it.
Lennox
Doubtful it stood. The traitor MacDonwald from the Western-Isles is supplied. But he's too weak,
for brave Macbeth well deserving of that name, carved out his passage with his brandished steel, till
he faced the Norweyan Slave! He "un-seamed" him from the nave to the chops and fixed his head
upon our battlements. (Everyone cheers) Mark. King of Scotland, mark! No sooner justice had
compelled these villians to their heels, but the Norweyan lord began a fresh assault!...But I am faint.
My gashes cry for help!
Duncan
So well thy words and wounds do this honour. Go! Get him surgeons! (Lennox is helped offstage.
Ross enters) Who comes here?
Malcolm
The worthy Thane of Ross.
Duncan
Whence camest thou, worthy thane?
Ross
From Fife, great King, where the Norweyan banners fan our people cold. Norway himself, with
terrible numbers, assisted by the most disloyal Thane of Cawdor, began a dismal conflict! Until that
"Bellona's Bridegroom" Macbeth, confronted him. Arm against arm and Point against Point! And
to conclude, the victory fell on us! (Everyone cheers).
Duncan
No more that Thane of Cawdor shall deceive our bosom interest. Go, pronounce his present death,
and with his former title greet Macbeth! (All cheer)
Ross
I'll see it done! (Ross exits)
Duncan
What he hath lost, noble Macbeth hath won! (Duncan and his court exit).
1. Scene III
(THE HEATH AGAIN. THUNDER. ENTER THE THREE WITCHES).
1ST Witch
Where has thou been, sister?
2nd Witch
Killing swine.
3rd Witch
Sister where thou?
st
1 Witch
A sailor's wife had chestnuts in her lap, and munched, and munched, and munched. "Give me!”,
"quoth I. "Aroint thee, witch," the rump-fed ronyon cries. Her husband is away at sea, Master of the
Tiger; But in a sieve I’ll thither sail, and, like a rat without a tail, I’ll do, I’ll do and I’ll do..
2nd Witch
1st Witch
3rd Witch
1st Witch
I’ll give thee a wind. (She farts)
Thou art kind
And I another. (She farts)
I myself have all the other. Look what I have.
nd
2 Witch and 3rd Witch Show me! Show me!
1st Witch
I have her husband's thumb, wrecked as homeward he did come. (A drum is heard offstage).
3rd Witch
A drum! A drum! Macbeth doth come!
All Witches
The weird sisters, hand in hand, posters of the sea and land. Thus do go about thrice to thine, and
thrice to mine, and thrice again to make up nine. Peace! The charm's wound up! (Enter Macbeth
and Banquo).
Macbeth
So foul and fair a day I have not seen.
Banquo
How far is it to Forres? (Sees the witches) What are these so withered and so wild in their attire that
look not like the inhabitants of the earth, and yet are on it? Are you alive? Or are you aught that
man may question? You seem to understand me, by each at once her choppy finger laying upon her
skinny lips. You should be women, and yet your faces forbid me to interpret that you are so.
Macbeth
st
Speak, if you can. What are you?
1 Witch
All hail Macbeth! Hail to thee, Thane of Glamis!
2nd Witch
All hail Macbeth! Hail to thee, Thane of Cawdor!
3rd Witch
All hail Macbeth! Thou shalt be King hereafter!
Banquo
(To Macbeth) Good sir, why do you start and seem to fear things that do sound so fair? (To the
witches) In the name of truth, are you fantastical?
You greet Macbeth, to me you speak not. If you can look into the seeds of time, and say which
grain will grow and which will not, speak then to me, who neither beg nor fear your pleasures nor
your hate.
1st Witch
Hail!
2nd Witch
Hail!
3rd Witch
Hail!
st
1 Witch
Lesser than Macbeth and greater!
2nd Witch
Not so happy, yet much happier!
3rd Witch
Thou shalt beget kings, though thou be none! So all hail, Macbeth and Banquo!
1st Witch
Banquo and Macbeth, all hail? (they begin to disappear into the mist)
Macbeth
Stay, you imperfect speakers, tell me more. By my Father's death I know I am Thane of Glamis, but
how am I Thane of Cawdor? The Thane of Cawdor lives and to be King stands not within the
prospect of belief. Say from whence you owe this strange intelligence, and why upon this blasted
heath do you stand in our way. Speak, I charge you! (The witches vanish).
Banquo
The earth hath bubbles as the water has. Wither are they vanished?
Macbeth
Into the air; and what seemed corporal melted as breath into the wind. Would they had stayed.
Banquo
Were such things here as we do speak about? Or have we eaten on the insane root that takes the
reason prisoner?
Macbeth
Your children shall be kings!
Banquo
You shall be king.
Macbeth
and Thane of Cawdor too. Went it not so?
Banquo
To the selfsame tune and words. (Ross enters) Who's here?
Ross
The King hath happily received, Macbeth, the news of thy success! And he bade me call thee Thane
of Cawdor!
Banquo
Can the Devil speak true?
Macbeth
The Thane of Cawdor lives. Why do you address me in borrowed robes?
Ross
He who was the Thane of Cawdor lives, yes. But under heavy judgement bears that life which he
deserves to lose. The treason, capital, confest and proved, hast overthrown him. What he hath lost,
the noble Macbeth hath won.
Macbeth
(To himself) Thane of Glamis I am, and now Thane of Cawdor. The greatest is behind. (To Ross)
Thanks for your pains. (To Banquo) Do you not hope your children shall be kings? When those that
gave the Thane of Cawdor to me promised no less to them?
Banquo
(aside to Macbeth) That truth trusted home, might yet enkindle you unto the crown, besides the
Thane of Cawdor. But ‘tis strange, and often wins us to our harm. The instruments of darkness tell
us truths, win us with noble trifles, only to betray us in deepest consequence. (to Ross) Cousin, a
word I pray you.
Macbeth
(To himself) Two truths are told, as happy prologues to this swelling act of the imperial theme. (to
others) I thank you gentlemen. (aside) This supernatural soliciting cannot be ill, cannot be good. If
ill, why has it given me earnest of success, commencing in a truth? I am Thane of Cawdor! If
good, why do I yield to that suggestion, whose horrid image doth unfix my hair, and make my
seated heart knock at my ribs, against the use of nature? Present fears are less than horrible
imaginings. My thought, whose murder yet is but fantastical, shakes my state of man. And nothing
is but what is not!
Banquo
Look how our partner's rapt!
Macbeth
(To himself) If chance will have me king, why chance may crown me, without my stir.
Banquo
New honours come upon him, like strange garments may cling to us.
Macbeth
(aside) Come what come may, time and hour runs through the roughest day.
Banquo
Worthy Macbeth we stay upon your leisure.
Macbeth
Forgive me, my dull brain was wrought with things forgotten. Enough! Gentlemen, let us toward
the king. (aside to Banquo) Think upon what hath chanced; and, at more time, the interim having
weighed it, let us speak our free hearts each to other.
Banquo
(aside to Macbeth) Very gladly.
Macbeth
(aside to Banquo) ‘Till then enough. – (to all) Come, friends. (All exit).
1. Scene IV
(THE MILITARY CAMP. KING DUNCAN, DONALBAIN, MALCOLM, LENNOX, AND ATTENDANTS PRESENT.
ENTER MACBETH AND BANQUO).
Duncan
Is execution done on Cawdor? Are those commissioned yet returned?
Malcolm
My liege, I have spoken to one who saw him die; who did report that frankly he confest his treasons,
implored your highness’ pardon, and set forth a deep repentance. Nothing in his life became him
like its leaving. He died like one who had studied his death, to throw away the dearest thing he
owned , as t’were a careless trifle.
Duncan
He was a gentleman on whom I built an absolute trust. (Enter Macbeth, Banquo, Ross and Angus) O
worthiest cousin! The sin of my ingratitude even now was heavy on me. I can only say, more is thy
due, than more than all I can pay.
Macbeth
The service and loyalty I owe in doing it, pays itself. Your highness’ part is to receive our duties;
and our duties are to your throne and its children.
Duncan
Welcome hither. Noble Banquo, that has no less deserved, nor must be known, no less to have done
so: let me infold thee, and hold thee to my heart!
Banquo
There if I grow, the harvest is your own.
Duncan
Sons, kinsmen, thanes, and you whose places are the nearest! Know we will establish our estate
upon our eldest Malcolm, whom we name The Prince of Cumberland! (All cheer) Which we, not
unaccompanied invest him only, but signs of nobleness, like stars, shall shine on all deservers.(To
Macbeth) From hence to your castle at Inverness, and bind us further to you!
Macbeth
I'll make joyful the hearing of my wife with our approach; So, humbly take my leave.
Duncan
My worthy Cawdor!
Macbeth
(To himself). The Prince of Cumberland! That is a step on which I must fall down, or else o'er leap,
for in my way it lies. Stars, hide your fires. Let not light see my black and deep desires! The eye
wink at the hand; yet let that be, which the eye fears, when it is done, to see. (Macbeth exits).
1. Scene V
(Macbeth's castle at Inverness. Enter Lady Macbeth)
L Macbeth
(Reading a letter from Macbeth) "They met me on the day of success. They have more than mortal
knowledge. When I burnt in desire to question them further, they made themselves air, into which
they vanished. While I stood rapt in the wonder of it, came messengers from the king, who all
hailed me as Thane of Cawdor by which title, before, these weird sisters had saluted me and
referred me to the coming on of time, with “Hail king thou shall’t be!” This I write to thee my
dearest partner of greatness, that thou might rejoice at which greatness is promised thee. Lay it to
thy heart and farewell". (Crumples the letter). Glamis thou art, and now Cawdor, and thou shalt be
what thou wast promised. Yet do I fear thy nature. It is too full of the milk of human kindness to
catch the nearest way; thou wouldst be great; art not without ambition; but without the illness should
attend it; what thou wouldst highly, that wouldst thou holily; wouldst not play false, and yet would
wrongly win. Thou hast great Glamis, that which cries to you “thus thou must do, if thou have it;
and that, which rather thou dost fear to do than wishest should be undone.” Hurry hither, that I may
pour my spirits in thine ear and chastise with my tongue all that impedes thee from the golden round
which fate and metaphysical aid doth seem to have thee crown’d. (Enter messenger). What is your
message?
Messenger
King Duncan comes here tonight.
L Macbeth
You are mad to say this. Is not Macbeth with the king?
Messenger
Our thane is almost here, my lady? One of my fellows had the speed of him, who, almost dead for
breath, was scarce able to give this message.
L Macbeth
Give him tending for he brings great news. (exit Messenger) The raven himself is hoarse that croaks
the fatal entrance of Duncan under my battlements. Come, you spirits that tend on mortal thoughts,
unsex me here and fill me, from crown to the toe, top-full of direst cruelty. Make thick my blood!
Stop up the access and passage to remorse, that no compunctious visitings of nature shake my fell
purpose, nor keep peace between the effect and it. Come, come to my woman’s breasts and take my
milk for gall, you murdering ministers, wherever in your sightless substances you wait on nature’s
mischief. Come, thick night, and pall me in the dunnest smoke of hell, that my keen knife see not the
wound it makes, nor heaven peep through the blanket of the dark to cry "Hold! Hold!"
(Enter Macbeth). Great Glamis, worthy Cawdor! Greater than both, by the all-hail hereafter! Thy
letters have transported me beyond the ignorant present, and I feel now the future in the instant.
Macbeth
My dearest love, Duncan comes here tonight.
L Macbeth
And when goes hence?
Macbeth
Tomorrow, as he purposes.
L Macbeth
O never shall sun that ‘morrow see! Your face, my lord, is a book where people may read your
thoughts. To beguile the time, look like the time. Bear welcome in your eye, your hand, your
tongue. Look like the innocent flower, but be the serpent under it. He that’s coming must be
provided for; and you shall put this night's great business into my dispatch; Which shall to all our
nights and days to come give solely sovereign away and masterdom.
Macbeth
We will speak further.
L Macbeth
Only look up clear; to alter favour ever is to fear. Leave the rest to me. (Macbeth and Lady Macbeth
exit).
1. Scene VI
(MACBETH'S CASTLE. ENTER KING DUNCAN, BANQUO, MALCOLM, DONALBAIN, LENNOX, MACDUFF,
ROSS, AND ANGUS).
K Duncan
This castle hath a pleasant seat; the air nimbly and sweet, recommends itself upon our gentle senses.
Banquo
I have observed, your majesty, that the air is quite delicate.
(Enter Lady Macbeth)
K Duncan
See, see our gracious hostess.
L Macbeth
All our service, in every point twice done. These were poor a single businesses to contend with those
great honours deep and broad wherewith your majesty loads our house.
Duncan
Where is the Thane of Cawdor? He rode ahead of us, ah, how he can ride. Fair and noble hostess,
we are your guests tonight.
L Macbeth
Your servant ever your Majesty.
K Duncan
Give me your hand. Conduct me to my host. We love him dearly and will continue our graces
towards him. By your leave hostess.
(All Exit)
1. Scene VII
(MACBETH'S CASTLE. ENTER MACBETH)
Macbeth
If it were done – when tis done – then twere well it were done quickly; if the assassination could
trammel up the consequence, and catch success, this blow might be the be all and end all here, here upon this bank
and shoal in time, we would jump the life to come. He's here in double trust. First, I am his kinsman and his
subject. Then as his host, who should against his murderer shut the door, not bear the knife myself. Besides, this
Duncan hath borne his faculties so meek, hath been so clear in his great office that his virtues will plead like angels.
And pity, like a new born babe, shall blow the horrid deed in every eye, that tears shall drown the wind! I have no
spur but only vaulting ambition!
(Enter Lady Macbeth) Well? What news?
L Macbeth
He has almost finished his supper. Why have you left the banquet room?
Macbeth
Has he asked for me?
L Macbeth
You knew that he would!
Macbeth
We shall proceed no further in this horrible business. He has honoured me of late, and I have
bought golden opinions from all sorts of people, which would be worn now in their newest gloss,
not cast aside so soon.
L Macbeth
Was the hope drunk wherein you dressed yourself? Has it slept since? From this time such I account
my love. Art thou afeared to be the same in thine own act and valour as thou art in desire? Wouldst
thou have that which thou esteemed the ornament of life, and live a coward in thine own esteem,
letting “I dare not” wait upon “I would”?
Macbeth
Prithee Peace! I dare do all that may become a man. Who dares do more is none!
L Macbeth
What beast was it then that made you break this enterprise to me? When you durst do it then you
were a man; and, to be more than what you were, you would be so much more the man. I have given
suck, and know how tender it is to love the babe that milks me: I would, while it was smiling in my
face, have plucked my nipple from his boneless gums, and dashed the brains out, had I so sworn as
you have done to this.
Macbeth
If we should fail?
L Macbeth
We fail! But screw your courage to the sticking place and we shall not fail. When Duncan is asleep,
where this hard day’s journey shall soundly invite him, his two servants will I make drunk with
wine. When they are asleep, what cannot you and I perform on the unguarded Duncan? What not
put upon his spongy officers, who shall bear the guilt of our great deed.
Macbeth
Bring forth men-children only; for thy undaunted mettle should compose nothing but males. Will it
not, when we have marked with blood those sleepy two of his own chamber, and used their very
daggers, that they have done it?
L Macbeth
Who dares receive it other, as we shall make our griefs and clamour roar upon his death?
Macbeth
I am settled! Away and mock the time with the fairest show: False face must hide what the false
heart doth know! (Macbeth and Lady Macbeth exit).
ACT TWO
2. Scene 1
(A COURTYARD IN MACBETH'S CASTLE, A FEW HOURS LATER. BANQUO AND FLEANCE ENTER)
Banquo
How goes the night, boy?
Fleance
The moon is down I have not heard the clock.
Banquo
Here, take my sword. The heavens are thrifty tonight, their candles are all out. (Enter Macbeth and
a servant) Give me my sword! Who's there!
Macbeth
A friend.
Banquo
What sir, not at rest? The King's abed. He hath been in unusual pleasure, and sent forth this
diamond for your wife. I dreamt last night of the three weird sisters. To you they have shown some
truth.
Macbeth
I think not of them. Yet, when we can find the time, let's talk about that business.
Banquo
At your kindest leisure.
Macbeth
Good night then and sleep well.
Banquo
Thanks sir, the same to you. (Exits with Fleance).
Macbeth
(To servant) Go bid my mistress when my drink is ready, she strike upon the bell. Get thee to bed.
(Servant exits). Is this a dagger which I see before me, the handle toward my hand? Come let me
clutch thee. I have thee not, and yet I see thee still. Art thou but a dagger of the mind, a false
creation of my brain? I see thee still and on thy blade spots of blood which was not so before.
There's no such thing! It is the Bloody business which makes me think I see this thing. Now, o'er
the one-half world, Nature seems dead. And wicked dreams abuse the curtained sleep. Now
witchcraft celebrates. And withered Murder moves like a ghost. (A bell rings from within). I go
and it is done. The bell invites me. Hear it not Duncan, for it is a death knell that summons thee to
heaven or to hell. (Macbeth exits to kill Duncan).
2. Scene Two
(L. MACBETH’S CHAMBER)
(Lady Macbeth enters)
L Macbeth That which has made them drunk has made me bold. What has quenched them has given me fire.
(An owl screeches). Hark! Listen! It was the owl that shrieked. He is about to do the deed. The doors are open
and the grooms are drunk and snoring. I have drugged the wine.
Macbeth
(From within) Who's there? What ho!
L Macbeth
Alas, I am afraid that they have awakened! And 'tis not done! I laid their daggers ready he could
not miss them. Had the king not resembled my father as he slept, I'd have done it! (Enter Macbeth)
My husband!
Macbeth
I have done the deed! Did'st thou not hear a noise?
L Macbeth
I heard the owl scream and the crickets cry. Did not you speak?
Macbeth
When?
L Macbeth
Now.
Macbeth
As I descended?
L Macbeth
Ay!
Macbeth
Hark! Who lies in the second chambers?
L Macbeth
Donalbain.
Macbeth
This is a sorry sight.
L Macbeth
A foolish thought, to say a sorry sight!
Macbeth
There's one did laugh in his sleep, and one did cry in his sleep, and one cried "Murder," that they did
wake each other. I stood and heard them. But they did say their prayers and again to sleep.
L Macbeth
There are two lodged together.
Macbeth
One cried, "God bless us," and "Amen," the others, as they had seen me with these hangman's hands.
Listening to their fear I could not say "Amen," when they did say, "God bless us!"
L Macbeth
Consider it not so deeply.
Macbeth
But wherefore could I not pronounce, "Amen?" I had most need of blessing, and "Amen" stuck in
my throat!
L Macbeth
These deeds must not be thought after in these ways. It will make us mad.
Macbeth
I thought I heard a voice cry, "Sleep no more, Macbeth doth murder sleep," The innocent sleep, the
sleep that knits up the raveled sleeve of care, balm of hurt minds, chief nourisher in life's feast.
L Macbeth
What do you mean?
Macbeth
Still it cried, "Sleep no more" to all the house. "Glamis hath murdered sleep, and therefore Cawdor
shall sleep no more. Macbeth shall sleep no more!"
L Macbeth
Who was it that thus cried? Why worthy Thane, you do unbend your noble strength to think so
brainsickly of such things. Go get some water and wash this filthy witness from your hand. (Seeing
the dagger in Macbeth's hand) Why did you bring these daggers from the place? They must lie
there. Go carry them, and smear the sleepy grooms with the blood.
Macbeth
I'll go no more. I am afraid to think of what I have done. I dare not look on it again.
L Macbeth
Infirm of purpose! Give me the daggers! The dead are but as pictures. 'Tis the eye of childhood
that fears a painted devil. If he is still bleeding, I'll gild the faces of the grooms with his blood, for it
must seem their guilt. (Exit Lady Macbeth. A knock is heard at the castle gate).
Macbeth
Whence is that knocking? How is it with me that every noise appals me? What hands are here?
Ha! Will all great Neptune's ocean wash this blood clean from my hands? No! This, my hand, will
rather make the multitudinous seas of green turn to red! (Enter Lady Macbeth)
L Macbeth
Now my hands are of your colour, but I shame to wear a heart so white. (A knock is heard) I hear a
knocking at the south entry? Retire we to our chamber. A little water clears us of this deed. How
easy it is then! (Another knock) Hark, more knocking. Get on your nightgown lest they call us. Be
not lost so poorly in your thoughts. (Exits).
Macbeth
To know my deed, t'were best not know myself! (Another knock) Wake Duncan with thy
knocking...I wish thou couldst!
(Exit Macbeth. More knocking is heard at the gate).
2. Scene Three & Four
(The main gate of Macbeth's castle. Enter the porter, slightly drunk).
Porter
Here's a knocking indeed! (A knock is heard again). Knock, knock, knock! Who's there in the
devil's name? (More knocking) Knock, knock, knock never at quiet! Who are you? (More
knocking; porter opens the gate). I pray you remember the porter. (Enter MacDuff and Lennox).
MacDuff
Was it so late, friend, before you went to bed that you do lie so late?
Porter
Faith, sir, we were carousing till very late.
MacDuff
Is thy master stirring? (Enter Macbeth) Our knocking has awakened him, for here he comes.
Lennox
Good morrow, noble sire.
Macbeth
Good morrow, both.
MacDuff
Is the King stirring, worthy Thane?
Macbeth
Not yet.
MacDuff
He did command me to call on him early. I have almost slipped the hour. (Exits to awaken
Duncan).
Lennox
The night has been unruly. Were we were, our chimney's were blown down. Some say the earth
was feverish and did shake.
Macbeth
'Twas an unruly night.
Lennox
I cannot remember a worse night, sir. (Enter MacDuff)
MacDuff
O horror, horror, horror! Tongue nor heart cannot conceive nor name thee!
Macbeth & Lennox
What’s the matter?
MacDuff
Most sacrilegious murder!
Macbeth
What is it you say, Murder?
Lennox
Mean you his majesty?
MacDuff
Approach the chamber, and destroy your sight! Do not bid me speak. See, and then speak
yourselves. (Exit Macbeth and Lennox) Awake! Awake! Ring the alarm bell. Murder and
treason! Banquo, Donalbain, Malcolm Awake! And look on death itself. (Trumpet blows or bell
rings. Enter Lady Macbeth).
L Macbeth
What's the business that such a hideous trumpet calls to awaken the sleeper of this house?
MacDuff
O gentle lady, 'tis not for you to hear what I can speak. (Enter Banquo) O Banquo! Banquo! Our
royal Master's murdered!
L Macbeth
Woe! Alas! What, in our house?
Banquo
Dear MacDuff, I prithee contradict thyself, and say it is not so!
(Enter Malcom and Donalbain)
Donalbain
What is amiss?
Lennox
You are, and do not know it. The spring, the head of your blood is stopped the very source of it is
stopped.
MacDuff
Your royal father’s murdered.
Malcolm
By whom?
Lennox
Those of his chamber, it seems, had done it. Their hands and faces were covered with blood, so
were their daggers, which unwiped we found upon their pillows. No man's life was to be trusted
with them.
Macbeth
O yet I do repent me of my fury, that I did kill them.
MacDuff
Wherefore did you so?
Macbeth
Who can be wise, temperate and furious, loyal and neutral at such a moment? No man. Here lay
Duncan, his silver skin laced with his blood, there the murderers, steept in the colours of their trade,
their daggers breecht with gore! Who could refrain, that had a heart to love, and in that heart
courage to make his love known?
L Macbeth
Help me, I am faint!
MacDuff
Look to the lady! (Lady Macbeth is helped offstage).
Banquo
Let us meet and question this most bloody piece of work to know it further.
Macbeth
We can meet in the hall together. (All exit except Malcolm and Donalbain).
Malcolm
We should hold our tongues, less some may claim this bloody deed be ours.
Donalbain
What can be spoken here? Where our fate?
Malcolm
Let’s not consort with them. To show an unfelt sorrow is an office which the false man does easy.
I’ll to England.
Donalbain
To Ireland, I. Our separate fortune shall keep us both the safer. Were we are there are daggers in
men's smiles. We are surely in danger if we stay here.
Macolm
Yes, this murderous shaft that’s shot, hath not yet lighted, and our safest way is to avoid the aim.
Therefore to horse, and let us not be dainty of leave taking. (Malcolm and Donalbain exit. Enter
MacDuff and Ross).
Ross
How goes the world sir now?
Macduff
Why, see you not?
Ross
Is’t known who did this more than bloody deed.
Macduff
Those that Macbeth hath slain.
Ross
What good could they pretend?
MacDuff
They were subordinates. Malcolm and Donalbain, the King's two sons are stolen away and fled,
which puts upon them the suspicion of the deed.
Ross
Then 'tis most like the sovereign crown will fall upon Macbeth.
MacDuff
He is already named, Macbeth has gone to Scone to be invested!
Ross
God’s blessings go with you and those, who would make good of bad, and friends of foes.
ACT THREE - Macbeth’s Castle?
3. Scene One
( ENTER BANQUO)
Banquo
Thou hast it now, King, Cawdor, Glamis, all as the weird sisters promised, and I fear thou playest
most foully for it. Yet it were said that I would be the root and father of many kings. If there come truth from them
as upon thee Macbeth, their speeches shine, why, the oracles upon you made good, may they not also be on mine,
and set me up in hope? (Trumpets sound) But hush, no more.
(Enter Macbeth as King, Lady Macbeth, Lennox, Ross, Lords and ladies, servants)
Macbeth
Ah! Here’s our chief guest.
L Macbeth
If he had been forgotten, it had been as a gap in our great feast, a thing un-becoming.
Macbeth
Tonight we hold a solemn supper, sir, and I'll request your presence.
Banquo
Let you Highness command upon me, but first I have business to which my duties tie.
Macbeth
Ride you this afternoon?
Banquo
Ay, my good lord.
Macbeth
Is it far you ride?
Banqujo
As far, my lord, as will fill up the time between this and supper.
Macbeth
Fail not our feast.
Banquo
My lord, I will not.
Macbeth
We hear our bloody cousins are bestowed in England and Ireland, not confessing to their cruel
murder. But of that tomorrow. Adieu. Till you return tonight. Goes Fleance with you?
Banquo
Ay, my good lord.
Macbeth
I wish your horses swiftness and sureness of foot. Farewell.
(Exit Banquo. Macbeth speaks to a servant).
Macbeth
Are these who I did instruct attend our pleasure?
Servant
They are, my lord, without the palace gate.
Macbeth
Bring them before us. (Exit servant). To be thus is nothing, but to be safely thus. Our fears in
Banquo stick deep. He chide the sisters when first they put the name of king upon me and bade
them speak to him; then, prophet-like, they hailed him father to a line of kings. Upon my head they
placed a fruitless crown, and put a barren sceptre in my grip, thence to be wrenched with an
unlineal hand, no son of mine succeeding. There is none but he that I do fear. (Enter servant and
three murderers). Now go to the door and stay there till I call. (Exit servant; to the murderers).
Was it not yesterday we spoke together?
1st Murd.
It was so please your highness.
Macbeth
Well then, now, are you convinced of my speeches that it is Banquo, and not our innocent self, that
has held you and your families under such misfortune? It is he that keeps you so in bondage. Do
you believe it?
1st Murd.
We do, now you have made it known to us, my lord.
Macbeth
And stand you ready to free your families from this bondage forever?
1st Murd.
We are ready, my lord.
nd
2 Murd.
I am one, my lord, whom the world has treated so poorly that I am reckless and I will do what I must
do to spite the world.
3rd Murd.
And I another.
1st Murd.
We stand ready, my lord, to perform what you command us.
Macbeth
I will advise you where to plant yourselves, for it must be done tonight. I require a clearness in this
and with him to leave no rubs nor blotches in the work. Fleance, his son, that keeps him company,
whose absence is no less material to me than his father’s, must embrace the same fate. Are you
resolved?
Murderers We are resolved, my lord (Exit three murderers).
Macbeth
It is concluded! Banquo, thou soul’s in flight. If it find heaven, must find it tonight.
3. Scene Two
(Enter Lady Macbeth)
L Macbeth
How now, my lord, why do you keep alone?
Macbeth
We have scotched the snake, not killed it!
L Macbeth
Come, my lord, be bright and jovial among your guests tonight.
Macbeth
And so I shall, and so, I pray, be you. But full of scorpions is my mind, dear wife. Thou knowest
that Banquo and his Fleance live.
L Macbeth
There's comfort yet, they are assailable.
Macbeth
There shall be done a dreadful deed.
L Macbeth
What's to be done?
Macbeth
Be innocent of the knowledge, dearest, till thou applaud the deed. Come seeling night scarf up the
tender eye of pitiful day and with thy bloody and invisible hand, cancel and tear to pieces that great
bond that keeps me pale. Light thickens, and the crows make wing to the rooky wood, good things
of day begin to droop and drowse, while nights black agents to their preys do rouse.- Thou
marvell’st at my words, but hold the still, things bad begun, make strong themselves by ill. So,
prithee, come with me. (they exit)
3. Scene Three
(Enter three murderers)
1st Murd.
It is nearly dark, and near approaches the subject of our watch.
3rd Murd.
Hark, I hear horses.
Banquo
Give us light there. Ho!
nd
2 Murd.
'Tis he, Banquo. The rest are already inside.
1st Murd.
He's left his horses.
3rd Murd.
'Tis the custom for all men from hence to the palace gate they walk.
2nd Murd.
A light! A light!
3rd Murd.
'Tis he!
1st Murd.
Stand to it!
(Banquo and Fleance enter).
Banquo
(to Fleance) It will rain tonight.
1st Murd.
Heaven’s tears my lord? Let them come down!
(Murderers stab Banquo).
Banquo
O treachery! Fly, good Fleance! Fly! Fly! Thou may'st revenge!
(Banquo dies as Fleance flees).
2nd Murd.
rd
There's but one down! The son is fled!
3 Murd.
We have lost the best half of the affair.
1st Murd.
Let's away, and say how much is done. (All exit).
3. Scene Four
(Enter Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, Ross, Lennox, and attendants for the feast to celebrate the crowning of Macbeth as
king. Trumpets sound as they enter).
Macbeth
Please sit down; to first and last, a hearty welcome.
ALL THE GUESTS
Thank you, Your Majesty!
(FIRST MURDERER APPEARS IN DOORWAY, LORDS RISE AND BOW. MACBETH GOES TO
HIM).
Macbeth
st
There's blood upon thy face.
1 Murd.
'Tis Banquo's then.
Macbeth
Is he dead?
1st Murd.
My lord, his throat is cut; that I did for him.
Macbeth
Thou art the best of cutters! Yet she is good that did stitch the like to Fleance, if thou dids’t it, thou
are’t beyond compare.
1st Murd.
Most royal sir, Fleance did escape.
Macbeth
Then comes my fit again! I had else been perfect. Whole as the marble, founded as the rock. As
broad and general as the casing air. But now I’m cabin’d, cribb’d, confined, bound in to saucy doubts and fears.
But Banquo’s despatched?
Murderer
death to nature.
Aye my good lord. Safe in a ditch he bides, with twenty trenched gashes on his head; the least a
Macbeth
Thanks for that. There the grown serpent lies, the worm that’s fled hath nature, that in time will
venom breed. No teeth for the present. Get the gone, tomorrow we will speak again!
(Exit 1st Murderer)
L Macbeth
My good lord, you do not give good cheer. The feast is growing cold.
(Enter ghost of Banquo and sits in Macbeth's chair).
Lennox
May it please your highness, sit.
Macbeth
Where is our Banquo?
Lennox
His absence sire lays blame upon his promise.
Ross
Please be it your highness to grace us with your royal company.
Macbeth
The table's full.
Lennox
Here is a place reserved, sir.
Macbeth
Where?
Lennox
Here, my good lord.
(Macbeth sees Banquo's ghost).
Lennox
What is it, moves your highness?
Macbeth
Which of you has done this?
ALL THE GUESTS
What, my good lord?
Macbeth
Thou canst not say I did it. Never shake your gory locks at me!
Ross
Gentlemen, rise. His highness is not well.
L Macbeth
Sit, worthy friends, my lord is often thus, and has been from his youth. Pray you, keep your seats.
The fit is momentary; He will be well in a moment. If you notice him, you shall offend him. Please
eat and regard him not. (to Macbeth) Are you a man?
Macbeth
Ay, and a bold one that dare look on that which might appal the devil himself.
L Macbeth
This is only your imagination. This is the air-drawn dagger which, you said, led you to Duncan.
These flaws and starts would well become a woman. When all is done, you look but on a chair?
Macbeth
Prithee see, there. Behold, look what say you?
(The ghost of Banquo vanishes).
L Macbeth
Get hold of thy self.
Macbeth
But I saw him!
L Macbeth
Fie, for shame!
Macbeth
The time has been that, when the brains were out, the man would die, and there an end. But now
they rise again and push us from our chairs.
L Macbeth
My worthy lord, your noble friends do miss you.
Macbeth
I do forget (to guests) I have a strange infirmity which is nothing serious. Come, love and health to
all. Give me some wine, fill full. (Banquo's ghost returns to Macbeth's chair). I drink to the
general joy of the whole table, and to our dear friend Banquo, whom we miss. Would he were here.
To him we drink.
ALL THE GUESTS
To Banquo!
(Macbeth sees Banquo's ghost)
Macbeth
Quit my sight! Let the earth hide thee! Thy bones are marrowless, thy blood is cold. Thou has no
speculation in those eyes which thou dost glare with.
L Macbeth
Think of this, good peers, but as a thing of custom. Only it spoils the pleasure of the time.
Macbeth
What any man dare, I dare! Take any shape but this, and my firm nerves shall never tremble. Away
horrible shadow! Unreal mockery hence! (Banquo's ghost vanishes). It is gone! I am a man again.
Pray you, sit still!
L Macbeth
You have displaced the mirth, broke the good meeting with most admired disorder.
Macbeth
How can you behold such sights and keep the natural ruby of your cheeks, when mine are blanched
with fear?
Ross
What sights, my lord?
L Macbeth
I pray you, speak not. He grows worse and worse. Questions enrage him. At once, good night.
Don't stand on ceremony, but go at once.
Lennox
Good night and better health attend his majesty.
L Macbeth
A kind good night to all.
(All exit except Macbeth and Lady Macbeth).
Macbeth
(to himself) It will have blood: they say blood will have blood. But(to Lady Macbeth) What is the
hour of the night?
L Macbeth
It is almost morning.
Macbeth
Why do you think MacDuff did not come?
L Macbeth
Did you send for him?
Macbeth
No, but I've heard it said he would not come, but I will send for him. In his home I will keep a spy.
Tomorrow I will go to the weird sisters. More shall they speak, for now I must know the worst for
mine own good. I am steeped in blood so far, that returning would be as tedious as going ahead.
L Macbeth
You need sleep, my lord.
Macbeth
Come to sleep if my strange fear will allow me to sleep.
ACT FOUR
4. Scene One
(The three witches are dancing around a cauldron).
1st Witch
Thrice the black cat has mewed.
2nd Witch
Thrice and once the hedge-hog whined.
3rd Witch
'Tis time, 'tis time.
1st Witch
Round about the cauldron go in the poisoned entrails throw.
ALL THE WITCHES
Double, double, toil and trouble fire burn and cauldron bubble.
2nd Witch
Fillet of a fenny snake, in the cauldron boil and bake.
3rd Witch
Eye of newt and toe of frog, wool of bat and tongue of dog, adder's fork and blind worm's sting,
lizard's leg and owlet's wing, for a charm of powerful trouble, like a hell broth boil and bubble.
ALL THE WITCHES
Double, double toil and trouble fire burn and cauldron bubble.
2nd Witch
Cool it with a baboon's blood then the charm is firm and good.
1st Witch
By the pricking of my thumbs, something wicked this way comes.
(Enter Macbeth)
Macbeth
How now, you secret, midnight hags. What is it you do?
ALL THE WITCHES
A deed without a name.
Macbeth
Answer me to what I say!
1st Witch
Speak!
2nd Witch
Demand!
3rd Witch
We'll answer!
1st Witch
Would you rather hear it from our mouths, or from our masters?
Macbeth
Call them, let me see them!
st
1 Witch
Pour in sow's blood that has eaten her nine young: and grease that's sweat from the murderer's
gibbet. Throw into the flame!
ALL THE WITCHES
Come, high or low, thyself to show!
1st Apparition
Macbeth! Macbeth! Macbeth! Beware MacDuff! Beware the Thane of Fife. Dismiss
me enough. (Disappears)
Macbeth
Whatever thou art, for thy good caution, thanks. MacDuff shalt not live.
1st Witch
He will not be commanded. Here's another, more potent than the first.
2nd Apparition
Macbeth, Macbeth, Macbeth! Laugh to scorn the power of man! Be bloody, bold,
and resolute! For none of woman born shall harm Macbeth! (Disappears).
Macbeth
Then what need I fear of any man?
ALL THE WITCHES
Listen but speak not to it.
3rd Apparition
Macbeth, Macbeth, Macbeth. Be brave and proud, for never shall thou vanquished
be, until Great Birnam Wood move to high Dusinane Hill!
Macbeth
That will never be, for how can a forest move its earth bound roots! Yet my heart
throbs to know one thing. Tell me, if your art can tell so much, shall Banquo's
children ever reign in this kingdom?
ALL THE WITCHES
Seek to know, no more!
Macbeth
I will be satisfied! Deny me this and an eternal curse fall on you!
st
1 Witch
Show!
2nd Witch
Show!
3rd Witch
Show!
ALL THE WITCHES
Show his eyes and grieve his heart. Come like shadows, so depart.
(Ghost of Banquo appears with a crown on his head).
Macbeth
Thou art like the spirit of Banquo! Down! Thy crown doth sear my eyeballs! Filthy hags, why do
you show me this? I'll see no more! Horrible sight! (The three witches vanish). Where are they?
Gone! Let this pernicious hour stand accursed in the calendar! Ho there! (Lennox enters).
Lennox
What is your grace's will?
Macbeth
Saw you the weird sisters?
Lennox
No, my lord.
Macbeth
Came they not by you?
Lennox
No indeed, my lord.
Macbeth
I heard the galloping of horses. Who was it came by?
Lennox
'Tis two or three, my lord, that bring you word that MacDuff is fled to England.
Macbeth
Fled to England?
Lennox
Ay, my good lord.
Macbeth
The castle of MacDuff I will surprise, give the edge of the sword to his wife and babies, and all
unfortunate souls that trace him in his line. This deed I'll do before this purpose cool. But where are
these gentlemen? Come, bring me to where they are.
4. Scene Two
(England. MacDuff and Malcolm stand out in front of the King's palace. Enter Ross)
MacDuff
(To Ross) O, relation too nice, and yet too true!
Malcolm
What's the newest grief?
Ross
As I came thither to transport tidings, I witnessed the Tyrant Macbeth's forces on the march. We are
in need of your help now! Your presence in Scotland would create soldiers to fight against their dire
distresses.
Malcolm
Let them take comfort. By the power of gracious England, we are coming hither.
Ross
I wish I could answer this comfort with the like. But I have words, that should be howled out in the
desert air, so that no ears can hear them.
MacDuff
What concern they? The general cause?
Ross
Let not your ears despise my tongue forever .Your castle is surprised; Your wife and babes savagely
slaughtered!
Malcolm
O, Merciful heaven.
MacDuff
My children too?
Ross
Wife, children, servants, all that could be found.
Malcolm
Be comforted; Let us take revenge to cure this deadly grief!
MacDuff
He has no children! All the pretty ones? All? O, Hell-kite! What all my pretty chickens and their
dam at one fell swoop!?
Malcolm
Let this sharpen your sword. Let grief convert to anger to enrage and stir the heart.
MacDuff
Now, let there be no delay! Bring thou this fiend of Scotland and myself face to face! Put him at
sword's length before me; and if he escape, Heaven forgive him.
Malcolm
Come, go we to the English king, our power is ready, we need to do nothing but take our leave.
Macbeth is ripe for shaking, and the powers above will find the means! Receive what cheer you
may; The night is long that never finds the day.
ACT FIVE
5. Scene One
(A ROOM IN DUNSINANE CASTLE. THE DOCTOR AND A GENTLEWOMAN ARE STANDING TO ONE SIDE).
Doctor
I have two nights watched with you, but can perceive no truth in your report. When was it she last
walked?
Gen.woman Since his majesty went into the field. I have seen her rise from her bed, throw her nightgown upon
her, unlock her closet, take forth paper, fold it, write upon it, read it, afterwards seal it, and again
return to bed, yet all this while in a most fast sleep.
Doctor
In this slumbery agitation, besides her walking and other actual performances, what, at any time,
have you heard her say?
Gen.woman That sir, which I shall not repeat!
Doctor
You may tell me and tis most important that you should.
(Enter Lady Macbeth with Candle)
Gen.woman Neither to you nor anyone; having no witness to confirm my speech - Lo you, here she comes, and
upon my life, fast asleep. Observe her. Stand close.
Doctor
How came she by that light?
Gen.woman She has a light by her continually. 'Tis her command.
Doctor
You see, her eyes are open!
Gen.woman Ay, but her senses are shut!
Doctor
What is it she does now? Look how she rubs her hands.
Gen.woman It is an accustomed action with her to seem thus washing her hands. I have known her continue in
this a quarter of an hour.
L Macbeth
Yet here's a spot!
Doctor
Hark, she speaks. I will set down what comes from her, to satisfy my remembrance more strongly.
L Macbeth
Out, damned spot, out I say! One, Two; why, then 'tis time to do it. - Hell is murky! Fie, my lord,
fie! A soldier and afeared? What need we fear who knows it, when none can call our power to
account? - Yet, who would have thought the old man to have so much blood in him?
Doctor
Do you mark that?
L Macbeth
The Thane of Fife had a wife. Where is she now? What, will these hands ne’er be clean? – No
more of that my lord, no more of that; you mar all with your dealings.
Doctor
Go to, go to; you have heard what you should not!
Gen.woman She has spoke what she should not, I am sure of that. Heaven knows what she has known!
L Macbeth
Here's the smell of the blood still. All the perfumes of Arabia will not sweeten this little hand. Oh,
oh , oh!
Doctor
What a sigh is there! This heart is sorely charged. This disease is beyond my practice.
L Macbeth
Wash your hands, put on your nightgown! Look not so pale. I tell you again, Banquo's buried. He
cannot come out of his grave.
Doctor
Even so!
L Macbeth
To bed...to bed! There's a knocking at the gate! Come! Come! Come! Come! Give me your
hand! What's done cannot be undone. To bed, to bed, to bed! (Exits).
Doctor
Will she now go to bed?
Gen.woman Directly
Doctor
Foul whisperings are abroad: unnatural deeds do breed unnatural troubles: infected minds to their
deaf pillows will discharge their secrets. More needs she the divine than the physician. Good God
forgive us all. Look after her, and so good night. My mind she has mated, and amazed my sight. I
think, but dare not speak!
Gen.woman Good night, good doctor.
5. Scene Two/Three
(Dunsinane castle. Macbeth awaits battle. He enters with the Doctor and others).
Macbeth
Bring me no more reports. Till Birnam Wood moves to Dunsinane, Macbeth shall not vanquished
be. What’s the boy Malcolm? Was he not born of woman? The spirits that know all mortal consequences hath told
me thus. “Fear not Macbeth, no man that’s born of woman shall ever have power over thee!” So fly false thanes
and mingle with the English toffs. The mind I hold and the heart I bear shall never sag nor shake with fear! (Enter
servant). What is it, thou cream-faced loon! Where got thou that goose look?
Servant
There is ten thousand.
Macbeth
Geese, villain?
Servant
Soldiers, sir!
Macbeth
Thou lily-livered boy, what soldiers, whey face?
Servant
The English force , so please you!
Macbeth
Take thy face hence! (The servant exits) I am sick at heart. This fight will chair me ever, or de-seat
me now. I have lived long enough; my way of life has fallen into the sear, the yellow leaf. And that
which should accompany old age, as honour, love, obedience, troops of friends -I must not look to
have. But in their stead, curses - not loud but deep, mouth-honor, breath which the poor heart would
fain deny and dare not. Bring me my armour. (The doctor enters) How does your patient, Doctor?
Doctor
Not so sick, my lord, as she is troubled with thick-coming fancies that keep her from her rest.
Macbeth
Cure her of that. Canst thou not minister to a mind diseased, pluck from the memory a rooted
sorrow?
Doctor
Therein the patient must minister…. to herself.
Macbeth
Throw physic to the dogs! I'll none of it! Come put my armour on. What purgative drug would
chase these English hence? Hast thou heard of them?
Doctor
Ay my good lord; your royal preparation makes us hear something.
Macbeth
Bring it on. I will not be afraid of death and bane, till Birnam forest come to Dunsinane!
(Both exit)
5. Scene Four
(Birnam Wood outside of Dunsinane. Malcolm, MacDuff, and colleagues enter with their troops in
the background).
MacDuff
What wood is this before us?
Mentieth
The wood of Birnam.
Malcolm
Let every soldier hew him down a bough and bear it before him. Thereby shall we shadow the size
of our force, and make discovery err in report of us.
Mentieth
It shall be done. Towards which advance the war!
5. Scene Five
(The courtyard in Dunsinane. Macbeth and servant prepare for war).
Macbeth
Hang out our banners on the outward walls! The cry is still, "They, come!" Our castle’s strength
will laugh, a siege to scorn: Here let them lie, ‘til famine and worms do eat them up. Were they not
reinforced with those that should be ours, we might have met them dareful, face to face, and beat
them backward home. (Womens’ screams within). What is that noise?
Servant
It was the cry of women, my good lord. (He exits)
(Women scream again)
Macbeth
I have almost forgotten the sound of fears. The time has been my senses would have cooled to hear a
night-shriek, and my hair would rouse and stir, as if life be in it. Wherefore was that cry?
(Doctor enters)
Doctor
The queen, my lord, is dead!
Macbeth
She should have died hereafter. There would have been a time for such a word, Tomorrow, and
tomorrow, and tomorrow creeps in this petty pace from day to day, to the last syllable of recorded
time; and all our yesterdays have lighted fools the way to dusty death. Out, out brief candle! Life's
but a walking shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage, and then is heard
no more. It is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing! (Enter messenger)
thou comest to use thy tongue; thy story quickly.
Messenger
Gracious my lord. I should report what I saw, but know not how to do it.
Macbeth
Well, say it sir!
Messenger
As I did stand my watch upon the hill, I looked toward Birnam, and anon, I thought the wood began
to move.
Macbeth
Liar and slave!
Messenger
Let me endure your wrath, if it not be so! Within this three miles you may see it coming! A moving
grove!
Macbeth
If thou speakest false, upon the next tree shalt thou hang alive til famine cling thee. "Fear not till
Birnam Wood do come to Dunsinane" and now a wood comes toward Dunsinane! To arms and
battlements. If this which he avouches does appear, there is no flying hence nor tarrying here. I
begin to be weary of the sun, and wish the estate of the world were now undone. Ring the alarm
bell! Blow wind, come wrack, at least we will die with harness on our back
.
5. Scene VI
Malcolm
(Enter Malcolm. Mentieth, McDuff etc.)
Now near enough. Your leafy screens throw down and show like those you are. You, worthy cousin
shall lead our first charge, worthy MacDuff and we shall take upon what else remains to do.
Mentieth
Fare you well. Do we but find the tyrant’s power tonight, let us be beaten if we cannot fight.
MacDuff
Make all our trumpets speak, give them all breath; those clamorous harbingers of blood and death.
5. Scene VII (Enter Macbeth)
Macbeth
They hath tied me to a stake; I cannot fly, but bear-like, I must fight the course. What’s he that was
not born of woman? Such a one am I to fear, or none.
Mentieth
What is thy name?
Macbeth
Thou would be afraid to hear it.
Mentieth
No. Not if thou call thyself a hotter name than any is in hell!
Macbeth
My name’s Macbeth!
Mentieth
The devil himself could not pronounce a title more hateful to mine ear.
Macbeth
No, nor more fearful.
Mentieth
Thou liest! Abhorred tyrant. With my sword I'll prove the lie thou speak! (They sword fight.
Mentieth is killed)
Macbeth
Thou wast born of woman! Swords I smile at, weapons laugh to scorn, brandished by man that’s of
woman born.
5. Scene VIII
(Macbeth sees MacDuff and others enter and begins to run away)
MacDuff
Turn, hellhound, turn!
Macbeth
Of all men else I have avoided thee! But get thee back! My soul is too much charged with the
blood of thine already!
MacDuff
I have no words. My voice is in my sword, thou bloodier villain than terms can give thee out.
(They fight).
Macbeth
Thou losest labour: As easy mayst thou the entrenchant air, with thy keen sword impress, as make
me bleed. Let fall thy blade on vulnerable crests; I bear a charmed life, which must not yield to one
of woman born.
MacDuff
Despair thy charm; And let the angel whom thou still hast served, tell thee, MacDuff was from his
mother’s womb, untimely ript.
Macbeth
Accursed be that tongue that tells me so. For it has cow’d my better part of man! And be these
juggling fiends no more believed, that palter with us in a double sense; that keep the word of
promise to our ear, and break it to our hope - I'll not fight with thee!
MacDuff
Then yield, thee coward, and live to be the show and gaze of the time! We'll have thee, as our rarer
monsters are, painted upon a pole and under writ, "Here may you spit on the tyrant!"
Macbeth
I will not yield! To kiss the ground before young Malcolm’s feet? And to be thus baited by the
rabble”s curse? Though Birnam Wood do come to Dunsinane, and thou opposed, being of no
woman born, yet I will try the last:Lay on, MacDuff, and damned be him that first cries "Hold, enough!"
(They fight off-stage. MacDuff kills Macbeth. Malcolm and his attendants enter).
MacDuff
(To Malcolm) Hail, king, for so thou art! Behold where stands the usurper's cursed head!
Of this dead butcher, and his fiend-like queen, who, as tis thought, by self and violent hands took off
her life the time is free. Tyranny ends that all may see. Hail, King of Scotland!
ALL THE CAST
Hail, King of Scotland.
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