Act 1 Scene 4:Malcolm to be King

Summary 

-King Duncan asks his son, Malcolm, to confirm that the Thane of Cawdor has been executed and he is told that Cawdor died dignity, repenting his actions.

-Macbeth and Banquo enter and are thanked by Duncan for their efforts in the war. Duncan proclaims that Malcolm will be his heri. He also says thathe will visit Macbeth at home.

-Macbeth says he will write to wife and prepare for the arrival of the king. He is unhappy about Duncan's announcement that Malcolm is next in line to the throne.

Importance:

The King's announcement that Malcolm will be the next king provides Macbeth with motivation  to prevent this happening by committing murder and treason. Shakespeare shows how Macbeth's attitude has changed and hardened when he sees that Malcolm is in his way. Macbeth's character is …