The Final Battle

The third part depicts the ultimate confrontation and its immediate aftermath. The scene shows both the personal combat between Macduff and Macbeth and the wider implications for Scotland.

Quote: "Your son, my lord, has paid a soldier's debt."

Highlight: Siward's reaction to his son's death demonstrates the value placed on honorable death in battle.

Example: The contrast between Siward's acceptance of his son's death and Macbeth's desperate final moments shows different approaches to mortality.

The Final Confrontation

The opening of the battle scene shows Macbeth's increasing isolation and desperation. His encounter with Macduff becomes inevitable as prophecy and fate converge.

Quote: "Why should I play the Roman fool and die / On mine own sword? Whiles I see lives, the gashes / Do better upon them."

Highlight: Macbeth's refusal to commit suicide shows his persistent defiance, even in the face of certain defeat.

Vocabulary: "Roman fool" refers to the Roman practice of noble suicide to avoid capture or defeat.

The dialogue between Macbeth and Macduff reveals their final confrontation, with Macduff declaring his intent through action rather than words.