The King of Scotland. He compliments Macbeth and Banquo on their service and formally names his son Malcolm as his heir to the throne, before announcing his plan to visit Macbeth’s home at Inverness.
Eldest son of Duncan and newly named heir to the Throne of Scotland.
Duncan's younger son.
The new Thane of Cawdor. He begins to question how far he might go in order to become king, particularly after Malcolm is named as Duncan’s heir.
.jpg?itok=C8WQar4M)
Scottish thane and general and companion of Macbeth. He receives Duncan’s praise for his bravery in battle.
A Scottish lord who serves Duncan.
A Scottish lord who serves Duncan.
A Scottish lord who serves Duncan.
Courtiers who attend to King Duncan.
Back in the court, Duncan demands to know whether or not the Thane of Cawdor has been executed for his treason. After his son Malcolm assures him that the deed is done, Macbeth and company arrive. Duncan’s over the moon. He heaps praise on Macbeth, and tells the newly minted Thane of Cawdor that he can’t thank him enough for his heroism on the battlefield. He also reveals that he intends to have his son Malcolm succeed him on the throne, which throws Macbeth for a bit of a loop. He privately ponders his growing desire to kill Duncan so that he can grab the throne for himself. Then he heads home to tell his wife the good news, and Duncan promises a visit.
