Succession After Macbeth: Malcolm Becomes the King of Scotland
In William Shakespeare’s tragic play, “Macbeth,” the question of who becomes king after Macbeth’s demise holds significant importance. The play’s conclusion reveals that Malcolm, the eldest son of King Duncan, assumes the throne and becomes the new King of Scotland. This article explores the succession of power following Macbeth’s death and the events surrounding Malcolm’s ascension to the throne.
Macduff Presents Macbeth’s Severed Head to Malcolm
Following Macbeth’s death, Macduff, a loyal nobleman and one of the protagonists in the play, presents Malcolm with a gruesome proof of Macbeth’s demise – the severed head of the fallen king. This act serves as tangible evidence of Macbeth’s defeat and solidifies Malcolm’s claim to the throne.
Malcolm: Hailed as the New King of Scotland
Upon witnessing Macbeth’s severed head, Malcolm is hailed as the new King of Scotland. The nobles and supporters present recognize his rightful claim to the throne, as he is the legitimate heir of King Duncan. Malcolm’s ascension to kingship brings an end to the tyrannical reign of Macbeth and restores a sense of order and legitimacy to the Scottish monarchy.
Malcolm’s Promises and Rewards
In his first official act as king, Malcolm addresses the nobles and soldiers who fought alongside him against Macbeth’s forces. He expresses gratitude for their loyalty and promises rewards to all who fought in his cause. Notably, Malcolm grants them the title of earls, a significant honor in Scottish nobility. This gesture reinforces Malcolm’s appreciation for their support and establishes a sense of unity and loyalty among the nobility.
Welcoming Back the Fleeing Scots
In a bid to heal the wounds inflicted by Macbeth’s tyrannical rule, Malcolm announces his intention to welcome back all the people of Scotland who had fled their homes during Macbeth’s reign. This compassionate and inclusive approach aims to restore stability and rebuild the trust of the populace. Malcolm seeks to create a sense of unity and reconciliation among the Scottish people, emphasizing the need for healing and restoration.
Crowning at Scone Castle
To solidify his position as the rightful king, Malcolm invites all present to witness his coronation at Scone Castle, the traditional site for the crowning of Scottish monarchs. This symbolic act further legitimizes his rule and emphasizes the continuity of the Scottish monarchy. By inviting the nobles and the people to witness the event, Malcolm aims to foster a sense of collective participation and support for his reign.
In conclusion, after the death of Macbeth, Malcolm assumes the role of King of Scotland. Supported by the loyalty of his followers and the proof of Macbeth’s defeat, Malcolm’s ascension brings an end to a tumultuous period in Scottish history. Through his promises of rewards, the welcoming of the exiled Scots, and his coronation at Scone Castle, Malcolm seeks to unite the kingdom and establish a reign characterized by justice, order, and healing.
Sources:
- “Macbeth Story Timeline” – Shakespeare Learning Zone, Royal Shakespeare Company.
(https://www.rsc.org.uk/shakespeare-learning-zone/macbeth/story/timeline)
- “Macbeth: What Does the Ending Mean?” – SparkNotes.
(https://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/macbeth/what-does-the-ending-mean/)
- “Macbeth – Act 2, Scene 2” – Folger Shakespeare Library.
(https://www.folger.edu/explore/shakespeares-works/macbeth/read/2/2/)
FAQs
Who becomes king after Macbeth’s death in Shakespeare’s play “Macbeth”?
Answer: In the play, Malcolm, the eldest son of King Duncan, becomes the king of Scotland after Macbeth’s death.
How is Malcolm’s claim to the throne established?
Answer: Macduff presents Macbeth’s severed head to Malcolm as proof of Macbeth’s defeat, solidifying Malcolm’s claim to the throne.
What rewards does Malcolm promise to those who supported him?
Answer: Malcolm promises rewards to all the nobles and soldiers who fought alongside him, granting them the title of earls, a significant honor in Scottish nobility.
How does Malcolm aim to reconcile the people of Scotland after Macbeth’s reign?
Answer: Malcolm announces his intention to welcome back all the people of Scotland who had fled under Macbeth’s tyranny, emphasizing the need for unity and healing.
Where does Malcolm invite everyone to witness his coronation?
Answer: Malcolm invites all present to watch his coronation at Scone Castle, the traditional site for the crowning of Scottish monarchs.
Who presents Macbeth’s severed head to Malcolm?
Answer: Macduff, a loyal nobleman and ally, presents Macbeth’s severed head to Malcolm as proof of Macbeth’s death.
What role does Malcolm’s ascension play in ending Macbeth’s tyrannical rule?
Answer: Malcolm’s ascension as king brings an end to Macbeth’s tyrannical reign, restoring order and legitimacy to the Scottish monarchy.
How does Malcolm’s reign aim to restore stability in Scotland?
Answer: By granting rewards, welcoming back the exiled Scots, and emphasizing reconciliation, Malcolm seeks to restore stability and rebuild trust among the Scottish people.