What goes wrong while Macbeth is murdering Duncan?
In Shakespeare’s tragic play “Macbeth,” the scene of Macbeth’s murder of King Duncan is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for the unfolding tragedy. However, as the plot unfolds, it becomes evident that several things go wrong during this crucial event, leading to unforeseen consequences and the unraveling of Macbeth’s ambition.
The first thing that goes wrong is the timing of the murder. Macbeth, driven by his ambition and the witches’ prophecies, decides to murder King Duncan during his stay at the royal castle. However, he overestimates his control over the situation and underestimates the importance of the guards. The guards’ sudden arrival catches Macbeth off guard, causing him to panic and flee the scene, leaving King Duncan alive and unharmed.
Secondly, Macbeth’s inability to act decisively contributes to the chaos. When the guards discover King Duncan’s murder, they are confused and unsure of how to proceed. Macbeth’s absence and the lack of a clear plan further complicate the situation. This lack of leadership and the absence of a strong central figure to take charge exacerbate the chaos and lead to a breakdown in order.
Furthermore, the murder of King Duncan exposes Macbeth’s true nature. The act of regicide reveals his ruthless and violent tendencies, which were previously hidden. This revelation not only alarms Lady Macbeth but also shakes the confidence of those around him, including his own army. The trust that Macbeth had previously garnered begins to erode, leading to a loss of support and loyalty.
Additionally, the murder of King Duncan sets off a chain of events that ultimately leads to Macbeth’s downfall. The discovery of the murder triggers a series of investigations and inquiries, including the involvement of Macduff, who becomes a central figure in the play. Macduff’s pursuit of justice and his determination to avenge King Duncan’s death further escalate the conflict and contribute to Macbeth’s eventual downfall.
In conclusion, what goes wrong while Macbeth is murdering Duncan is a combination of poor timing, indecisiveness, the revelation of Macbeth’s true nature, and the subsequent chain of events that lead to his downfall. This pivotal scene in “Macbeth” serves as a catalyst for the tragic events that follow, highlighting the dangers of ambition and the consequences of heinous acts.
