William Shakespeare | Short Summary of Macbeth: Act IV

The witches show Macbeth three apparitions which warn him to beware Macduff, promise him that “none of woman born shall harm Macbeth,” and assure him he will remain safe until Birnam Wood moves. He feels comforted by these prophecies without seeing their double meaning but is shaken by a vision of Banquo and his eight descendants. (I.) Malcolm tests Macduff’s loyalty to Scotland, and they plan strategy with English forces to oust Macbeth. (iii.) Meanwhile, Macbeth has Lady Macduff and all her children slain. (ii.)