Macbeth ACT IV NOTES

Macbeth goes to the witches to see if he can glean anymore information about his future. The witches show Macbeth four apparitions: An Armed Head tells Macbeth to beware MacDuff. A Bloody Child tells Macbeth he does not have to fear any man of woman born. A Crowned Child with a tree in his hand tells Macbeth that he will be king until Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane Castle. Finally, there is an apparition of eight kings and Banquo. The last is holding a mirror showing Banquo’s line stretching into the future. Macbeth decides to attack MacDuff’s castle. Act IV, scene i

Lady MacDuff and her children are killed by murderers sent by Macbeth. Act IV, scene iI

Macduff goes to England to ask for help from Malcolm. Malcolm does not trust Macduff at first and tests Macduff’s loyalty. Malcolm tells Macduff he is too lusty, he has too much greed, and he will undermine the country’s unity. When Malcolm realizes that Macduff is concerned with the future of the country, he decides to make Macduff an ally. Ross brings news of Scotland. At first, he lies to Macduff about his family, but then relates to Macduff that his wife, children and servants are dead. Macduff swears to kill Macbeth. Act IV, scene iII