Summary AQA GCSE English Literature Shakespeare - Macbeth Act 5 Scene 7

Act 5, Scene 7 – Macbeth Kills Young Siward
Macbeth kills Siward’s son. Siward reports to Malcolm that the battle is going well.


 Malcolm’s army march towards Macbeth’s castle and Macbeth is surrounded.
 “They fight and Young Siward is slain” – Character: Macbeth
Macbeth meets Young Siward and kills him. This scene reminds the audience that
Macbeth is a great warrior – as he was in Act 1, Scene 2. It is a big contrast with all the
moments in the play where he seems weak and confused.
 “Brandished by man that’s of a woman born”
Young Siward’s death gives Macbeth confidence. He is still clinging to the idea that he is
invincible and chooses to trust the Witches’ prophecies, even though the prediction
about Birnam Wood has come true.
 “Exit…Enter…” – Shakespeare’s Techniques
The number of entrances and exits in this scene help create a sense of confusion in the
battle.
 They also add tension – Macduff is searching for Macbeth and enters the scene just after
Macbeth exits.
 “Either thou, Macbeth, or else my sword with an unbuttered edge I sheathe again
undeeded”
Macduff is determined to the one that kills Macbeth.