# Scene II explained — Macbeth

> Chapter companion for Macbeth by William Shakespeare.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

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