Description
Macbeth reflects on the instability of his rule and in particular the prophecy that Banquo’s descendants will inherit the throne. This prophecy poses a threat to Macbeth’s own lineage and ambition, so he resolves to take action to protect his throne. He decides to murder Banquo and his son, Fleance, in order to prevent the prophecy from being fulfilled, but fails to kill Fleance.
