# Scene VI explained — Macbeth

> Chapter companion for Macbeth by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Lennox and another Lord discuss the state of Scotland under Macbeth's tyranny, revealing that Macduff has gone to England to ally with Malcolm and seek aid from King Edward and Siward to overthrow Macbeth.

## Themes in this chapter

### Kingship and Tyranny

Macbeth is described as a tyrant, contrasting with the rightful king Malcolm and the pious Edward.

### Appearance vs. Reality

Lennox's ironic praise of Macbeth highlights the gap between public pretense and private truth.

## Character check-ins

### Lennox

Speaks ironically about Macbeth's actions and inquires about Macduff's whereabouts.

### Lord

Informs Lennox that Malcolm is in England and that Macduff has gone to seek aid from King Edward and Siward.

### Macduff

Lives in disgrace after failing to attend Macbeth's feast and has gone to England to rally support against Macbeth.

### Malcolm

Resides in the English court, received by King Edward, and is the rightful heir to the Scottish throne.

### Macbeth

Referred to as a tyrant; he has sent a messenger to Macduff and is preparing for war.

## Key lines

> The gracious Duncan Was pitied of Macbeth: marry, he was dead:

Lennox sarcastically says that Macbeth pitied the gracious Duncan after he was dead.

_Lennox uses irony to imply Macbeth's hypocrisy._

> thither Macduff Is gone to pray the holy king, upon his aid To wake Northumberland and warlike Siward:

Macduff has gone to the English court to ask King Edward for military help from Northumberland and Siward.

_The Lord explains Macduff's mission to secure an army against Macbeth._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/macbeth_se/chapters/act-iii-scene-vi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/macbeth_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/macbeth_se/chapters