The Wheels of Fate Begin Turning
King Duncan and his advisers arrive at Inverness where Lady Macbeth, having quickly transformed, greets them as the perfect hostess. Duncan's speech is heavy with dramatic irony as he comments on how pleasant the castle seems, comparing it to paradise—a stark contrast to the hellish deed being planned within its walls.
The formal ceremonial atmosphere of the royal visit makes the murderous plotting even more disturbing. While the audience doesn't see the celebrations on stage, we understand that Duncan is being well entertained before his planned murder.
Alone, Macbeth delivers a crucial soliloquy weighing the consequences of killing Duncan. He recognizes the power he could gain but is troubled by fears of punishment both in heaven and on earth, plus the loss of his reputation. His soliloquy reveals his conflicted mind through repetitive language—words like "if," "were," "done," "be," and "but" appear multiple times, showing his confused thoughts.
When Macbeth expresses concerns about his reputation to Lady Macbeth, she mocks his perceived weakness and efficiently outlines her murderous plan. Her taunting of his hesitation, combined with her practical approach, ultimately convinces him to commit the "horrid deed."
Closer look: Macbeth's repetitive language in his soliloquy ("if," "were," "done") reveals his mental state. How does this contrast with Lady Macbeth's direct, decisive language when she speaks to him?