How did the execution of the third great crime differ from and yet also resemble the two preceding murders in 'Macbeth'?

Answer 1

The third great crime differed by being a massacre of known and unknown individuals. It resembled the two previous murders by being a surprise attack on the defenseless. It also resembled the two by claiming as its motive uncontrolled, raging, greedy ambition. The first murder was carried out in Act 2 Scene 2 of the Shakespearean play 'Macbeth'. The victims were King Duncan I [d. August 14, 1040] and his two royal guards. Not one had weapons with which to defend themselves. They were at distinct disadvantages. The King undoubtedly had eaten a heavy dinner. He had tired from a long work day. He had to get up early the next day. His guards had been given drugged drinks. The second murder was carried out in Act 3 Scene 3. The victim was Banquo. Again, he was unarmed and unwarned. He was intent upon getting back to Forres Palace in time for Macbeth's post-coronation banquet. The third murder was carried out in Act 4 Scene 2. The victims were Macduff's entire family and household. Once again, not one had the means or the opportunities to defend themselves. Among the bloodied corpses were Macduff's wife and son, whom Macbeth personally would have known. But also among the casualties were all the living and breathing entities to which a noble property was home: animals and servants as much as the noble family member themselves. The Fife Castle massacre was a transition step from the killing of local individuals whom Macbeth knew and saw as obstacles to his ambitious plans. It led to the indiscriminate, ruthless genocide of the Scottish nation. And it lasted 17 years.