Scene IV explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Appearance vs. Reality

  The unnatural omens reflect the hidden truth of Macbeth's treachery, while the flight of Malcolm and Donalbain creates a false appearance of their guilt.

• Ambition and Power

  Ross laments 'thriftless ambition' that destroys itself, referring to the ambition that led to Duncan's murder and now elevates Macbeth to the throne.

• Supernatural and Evil

  The dark day, the falcon killed by an owl, and the horses turning wild are presented as unnatural signs reflecting the evil of Duncan's murder.

Characters to notice

• Ross

  Ross discusses the unnatural events with the Old Man and learns from Macduff that Malcolm and Donalbain have fled, suspecting them of Duncan's murder.

• Macduff

  Macduff reports the flight of Malcolm and Donalbain and confirms that Macbeth has been named king and gone to Scone for investiture.

• Malcolm

  Malcolm is mentioned as having fled after Duncan's murder, which puts suspicion on him.

• Donalbain

  Donalbain is mentioned as having fled with Malcolm, casting suspicion on both brothers.

• Macbeth

  Macbeth is reported to have been named king and gone to Scone to be invested.

• King Duncan

  Duncan's body has been carried to Colmekill, the burial place of his predecessors.

Key passages

• “Thriftless ambition, that wilt ravin up Thine own life's means!”

  Wasteful ambition that consumes the very resources that sustain your own life.

  Ross reflects on the destructive nature of ambition, which leads to self-destruction.

• “Lest our old robes sit easier than our new!”

  May our old ways prove more comfortable than the new ones we are about to adopt.

  Macduff expresses wariness about Macbeth's new kingship, suggesting it may not be as good as the old rule.