Macbeth Act 1, Scene 5 Summary
Lady Macbeth Plots
Lady Macbeth reads Macbeth’s letter, resolves to push him toward murder, and instructs him to act innocent when King Duncan arrives tonight.
Summary
Lady Macbeth reads a letter from her husband describing his encounter with the Weird Sisters and their prophecy that he will become king. She tells the reader how the witches hailed Macbeth as Thane of Cawdor and as future king, and relays his amazement at their supernatural knowledge. She writes to prepare herself and to share in the promised greatness with her “dearest partner of greatness.”
Alone, Lady Macbeth fears Macbeth is too kind to seize the quickest route to the crown. She admires his ambition but judges him lacking the ruthlessness required: he would rather win honorably than by foul means. When a Messenger announces that King Duncan will arrive at their castle that night, Lady Macbeth seizes the opportunity. She calls on supernatural spirits to
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