It's time for the so-called England scene! Paradoxically, the England scene is the longest scene in the Scottish play.
This interaction between Macduff and Malcolm is pretty weird and it sometimes gets cut entirely from performances. I think that's a mistake, as it gives us a great insight into Malcolm's character. Up until now the apparently rightful heir to the throne of Scotland has been a complete cipher, but now he gets to flex his political muscles in a series of carefully considered lies designed to test and manipulate Macduff.
He might be a capable and deserving leader, but we kind of get the sense here that Malcolm is not necessarily a savior in shining armor.
Macbeth
Dramatis Personae | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9 | Part 10 | Part 11 | Part 12 | Part 13 | Part 14 | Part 15 | Part 16 | Part 17 | Part 18 | Part 19 | Part 20 | Part 21 | Part 22 | Part 23 | Part 24 | Part 25 | Part 26 | Part 27 | Part 28 | Part 29 | Part 30