Now fully armed, Macbeth confidently turns on the advancing armies, only to find his brave rhetoric interrupted by an offstage shriek. At first Macbeth isn't fearful, but Seyton soon appears to reveal that Lady Macbeth has died, whether by her own hand is not made clear.

Shocked, Macbeth speaks numbly about the passage of time and how every tomorrow is simply "signifying nothing".

Yet another surprise blow comes with the announcement that Birnam Wood appears to have uprooted itself and is even now advancing towards Dunsinane. Enraged and terrified, Macbeth recalls the prophecy that said he could not die till Birnam Wood moved to Dunsinane. Resignedly, he declares that he is tired of the sun and that at least he will die fighting.

Analysis:

Macbeth's speech at the beginning of this scene is warlike and defiant, his strength mirrored in that of the castle and men who surround him.

Like Duncan’s death, Lady Macbeth’s suicide does not take place onstage and is just reported. Macbeth seems numb in response to the news of his wife’s death, which seems surprising, given the great love he appears to have for his wife. His indifferent response reflects the despair that has seized him as he realizes that what has come to seem the game of life is almost up. Macbeth’s speech following his wife’s death is one of the most famous expressions of despair in all of literature.

The famous lines "Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow" have a resigned, almost wistful tone to them, occasioned not only by the death of his wife but also by Macbeth's entire loss of purpose.

Important Quotes:

"If this which he avouches does appear,
There is nor flying hence nor tarrying here.
I 'gin to be aweary of the sun,
And wish th' estate o' th' world were now undone." - Macbeth

	Created by Antonia Blankenberg over 7 years ago

A full analysis of Macbeth Act 5, following all the action as the final battle ensues leading to the death of Macbeth at Macduff's hands. The study note contains plot summary, analysis and key quotes.