Macbeth Act 2 Scene 1 Summary

In this scene, there are characters Banquo, Fleance, and Macbeth. The scene starts with Banquo and Fleance speaking to each other, and their conversation lets us know that is it late at night. Banquo talks about how he is tired, but he can not sleep due to his nightmares. Macbeth enters with a servant who is carrying a torch, to guide him since it is so dark and late. Banquo asks who is there, to which Macbeth replies ‘A friend’. Banquo asks how Macbeth is not asleep yet, and tells him that the king, Duncan, is already asleep in bed. He tells Macbeth that Duncan is in a weird good mood, and that he has given Macbeth many gifts, including a diamond for him and his wife. Macbeth says they were unprepared for Duncan’s visit, so therefore couldn’t look after him as well as they wish they did. Banquo then says ‘All’s well. I dreamt last night of the three weird sisters, to you they have showed some truth.’ This means Banquo dreamt of the witches and he can see that what they said is a little bit true for Macbeth. Macbeth says he doesn’t think about them now, but could with Banquo later, and he says they can talk whenever he wants. After a little bit more talking, Banquo and Fleance leave, and now the important part of the scene takes place. Macbeth begins to imagine a dagger in front of him, one he should kill Duncan with, after how much his mind is on the plan. He stands there and talks to himself for a bit, with this imaginary knife in front of him, because he says it calms him down. A bell rings, and Macbeth says he is done, and that Duncan’s murder is as good as done.