The Witches' Prophecy (Act 1, Scene 3):
Macbeth and Banquo meet the witches, who give Macbeth the prophecy that he will become the Thane of Cawdor and eventually the King of Scotland. They also tell Banquo that his descendants will be kings, but he will not be one himself.
Macbeth's Ambition and Lady Macbeth’s Influence (Act 1, Scene 5):
Duncan’s Murder (Act 2, Scene 2):
Macbeth Becomes King (Act 2, Scene 4):
Banquo’s Murder (Act 3, Scene 3):
Macbeth, fearing Banquo’s descendants will take the throne, arranges for Banquo’s murder. However, Banquo’s son, Fleance, escapes.
Macbeth’s Tyranny (Act 3, Scene 4-5):
Macbeth’s Downfall (Act 5, Scene 5-8):
Macduff, who was not “born of woman” in the usual way (he was delivered via C-section), kills Macbeth. Lady Macbeth also dies, possibly by suicide, overwhelmed by guilt.