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Macbeth

If it would be over once the deed is done, then it would be best to do it quickly. If the murder could somehow gather up and control its own consequences, and Duncan’s death would grant me the success I look for, then right now I would risk whatever happens to me in the afterlife. But for deeds like these, there are repercussions here in this life. We set an example by our bloody deeds, and that teaches others to do the same to us. This type of justice would have us drink our own poison.

Duncan

This castle is in a pleasant place; the air smells sweet and appealing to my fine senses.

Banquo

You can tell that summer bird, the martin, likes it here as well by the many nests in the palace walls. There is no place in the castle without a nest full of chicks. I’ve noticed these birds like to stay and mate in places where the air is delicate. [Enter Lady Macbeth]

Duncan

Has Cawdor been executed yet? Have the men that were sent to do the job returned?

Malcolm

My king, they haven’t come back yet. But I did talk to someone who saw him die, and he told me that Cawdor confessed his treasons in full, begged your highness’ forgiveness and was full of repentance. Nothing in his life reflected on him as well as his death did. He was like an actor who had studied his role well.  He threw away his most valuable possession, his life, as if it were nothing.

Duncan

Who’s that man covered in blood?  It looks like he’ll be able to give us the most up-to-date news on the revolt, as he clearly was just wounded.

Malcolm

This is the strong soldier who fought to keep me from being captured. Hello, brave friend! Tell the king what the status of the battle was when you left it.

First Witch

When shall the three of us meet again? Will there be thunder, lightning, or rain?

Second Witch

We’ll meet when the fighting is over, when the battle’s been lost by one side, and won by the other.

Third Witch

That’ll be before sunset.

First Witch

Where will we meet?

Second Witch

In the open field.

Third Witch

Where we’ll meet Macbeth.

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