Macbeth · Chapter
Scene II explained
Scottish nobles, including Menteith, Caithness, Angus, and Lennox, discuss the approaching English army led by Malcolm, Siward, and Macduff.
What happens
Scottish nobles, including Menteith, Caithness, Angus, and Lennox, discuss the approaching English army led by Malcolm, Siward, and Macduff. They note Macbeth's tyrannical behavior and his crumbling support, as he fortifies Dunsinane. The group resolves to march to Birnam Wood to join the forces against Macbeth.
Themes in this chapter
Kingship and Tyranny
Macbeth is described as a tyrant whose rule is illegitimate and unsupported, his title hanging loosely like a giant's robe on a dwarfish thief.
Guilt and Conscience
Angus notes that Macbeth feels his secret murders sticking on his hands, and his inner condemnation causes him to recoil.
Characters to notice
- Malcolm
Leading the English army with his uncle Siward and Macduff.
- Macduff
Allied with Malcolm and Siward, burning for revenge.
- Siward
Malcolm's uncle, co-leading the English forces.
- Angus
Reports that Macbeth feels his secret murders and his title hangs loosely.
- Lennox
Confirms Donalbain is not with Malcolm and notes the presence of Siward's son.
- Macbeth
Referred to as the tyrant, fortifying Dunsinane, described as mad or in valiant fury.
Key passages
“Now does he feel his secret murders sticking on his hands;”
Now he feels the guilt of his secret murders clinging to him.
Angus describes Macbeth's psychological torment as his crimes weigh on him.
“now does he feel his title Hang loose about him, like a giant's robe Upon a dwarfish thief.”
Now he feels his kingship fits him poorly, like an oversized robe on a small thief.
Angus uses a simile to illustrate Macbeth's unfitness for the crown.