Macbeth Act III Scene 6 Summary
Plot Summary / Story-line
In an undefined location, Lennox and an unnamed Scottish lord discuss recent political events in Scotland. Lennox speaks sarcastically about Macbeth's official explanations for the various deaths: Duncan's murder is attributed to the guards, Banquo's killing goes unexplained, and Fleance's flight makes him appear guilty.
The unnamed lord confirms Lennox's suspicions that Macbeth is the true murderer behind these deaths. He reports that Malcolm, Duncan's surviving son, has been well-received at the English court by the pious King Edward. More significantly, Macduff has traveled to England to seek military assistance—specifically appealing to King Edward to summon the English general Siward and the earldom of Northumberland to raise an army against Macbeth. The lord expresses hope that with English military support and divine blessing, Scotland may be freed from Macbeth's tyranny.
He notes that Macduff's absence from the previous night's feast and his refusal of Macbeth's summons have placed him in the tyrant's disfavor. Lennox responds by hoping that a "holy angel" will swiftly convey Macduff's message to England and that he will return with aid to rescue Scotland. The scene concludes with both men praying for Macduff's success.
Commentary on Act III, Scene vi
This scene serves multiple crucial functions in the play's structure. First, it reveals that Macbeth's crimes have not gone unnoticed among the Scottish nobility; suspicion and resentment are brewing beneath the surface.
Lennox's sardonic tone highlights the absurdity and transparency of Macbeth's excuses—even casual observers recognize his guilt. Second, the scene establishes the external forces that will ultimately overthrow Macbeth: Malcolm represents legitimate succession and moral authority, while Macduff embodies loyalty to Scotland and willingness to act against tyranny.
The reference to King Edward and the English court introduces an important contrast: England is portrayed as a realm of justice, piety, and order, while Scotland under Macbeth has become a land of suspicion, violence, and moral chaos. The lords' prayers for Macduff underscore the moral dimension of the coming conflict—this will not be merely a political struggle but a restoration of righteous order.
The scene also establishes dramatic irony: while these lords hope for Macduff's success, Macbeth is already planning to murder Macduff's family, intensifying the stakes of the coming confrontation.