TLDR;
This video provides a detailed, line-by-line explanation of Act 3, Scene 2 of Shakespeare's Macbeth, focusing on the interactions between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth as they grapple with the consequences of their actions and plot further deeds. The scene explores themes of guilt, anxiety, and the hollowness of ambition.
- Lady Macbeth expresses her discontent and the lack of peace despite achieving their desires.
- Macbeth reveals his fear and paranoia, particularly regarding Banquo and Fleance.
- The couple discusses and plans Banquo's murder, highlighting their deteriorating mental states and moral decline.
Introduction [0:00]
The video introduces a detailed analysis of Act 3, Scene 2 of Macbeth, focusing on Macbeth's interaction with Lady Macbeth before the grand feast. The presenter emphasises the importance of taking notes during the explanation, as it will aid in answering questions later on.
Lady Macbeth's Discontent [0:38]
Lady Macbeth inquires about Banquo's departure from court and expresses her desire to speak with Macbeth. Alone, she reflects on their lack of contentment despite achieving their ambition. She states that gaining their desire without peace of mind is futile, suggesting it's better to be the murdered (Duncan) than the killer living in anxiety. This reveals a significant shift in her character compared to Act 2, indicating disillusionment and a changing mindset.
Macbeth's Entrance and Worries [7:37]
Macbeth enters, and Lady Macbeth questions his isolated and gloomy behaviour. She urges him to dismiss the thoughts of those they've killed, as dwelling on the unchangeable is pointless. Macbeth responds with reptile imagery, stating they've only wounded the snake (Banquo), not killed it, and expresses fear that Banquo will heal and pose a threat again. He laments that they cannot enjoy their position due to constant fear and nightmares, envying Duncan's eternal peace.
Planning Banquo's Murder [15:38]
Lady Macbeth encourages Macbeth to appear cheerful and attentive to their guests, especially Banquo. Macbeth instructs her to pay special attention to Banquo, masking their true feelings with flattery. He reveals his mind is "full of scorpions" and acknowledges that Banquo and Fleance are still alive. Lady Macbeth implies they won't live forever, suggesting their murder. Macbeth seizes on this, finding comfort in the idea that they are vulnerable to attack.
The Dreadful Deed [21:09]
Macbeth declares that before nightfall, "a deed of dreadful note" will be done, revealing his plot to murder Banquo and Fleance. He describes the approaching night with dark imagery, referencing bats and beetles, and personifies the night as a force that will blindfold the "tender eye of pitiful day." He asks the night to destroy Banquo's "lease of life," which is causing him fear.
Night Approaches [30:17]
Macbeth notes the darkening sky and the return of crows to the woods, signifying the end of the day and the rise of "night's black agents." He tells Lady Macbeth that she seems surprised by his words but should not ask questions. He asserts that evil deeds can only be strengthened by further evil deeds. He asks her to come with him, ending the scene with a sense of foreboding.
