The Murder of Banquo
The tension ramps up immediately as three murderers wait in ambush for Banquo and his son Fleance. Notice how Shakespeare creates suspense - the murderers discuss the approaching twilight and listen for horses, building anticipation for the violence to come.
When Banquo arrives with Fleance carrying a torch, the dramatic irony hits hard. Banquo casually mentions it might rain, not knowing these are his final moments. The First Murderer's response "Let it come down!" signals the attack beginning.
Banquo's death is both tragic and heroic. Even as he's being murdered, his final words urge Fleance to "fly, fly, fly" and seek revenge. However, the murderers' mission is only half successful - Fleance escapes, which will prove crucial later in the play.
Plot Alert: Fleance's escape is vital because the witches prophesied that Banquo's descendants would be kings - this prophecy can still come true!
The scene ends with the murderers realising they've "lost best half of our affair." This partial failure will add to Macbeth's growing paranoia and desperation.