The Cycle of Violent Succession

This flow links rebellion, regicide, usurpation, and Macol’s accession to show how each new order reproduces the violence it condemns.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Rebels Denounce the Ruler

Rebels Denounce the Ruler Claims of Justice Glamiss and Candor condemn Duncan as an exploiter and call for freedom and self-rule. Opposition’s Ambiguity Their appeal to justice also promises private power and a share of the throne.

Duncan Punishes Defeat

Duncan Punishes Defeat Royal Retribution Duncan orders Candor and his soldiers executed, making defeat the basis for punishment on a vast scale. Violence Authorized The ruler’s law becomes indistinguishable from the force that secured his victory.

The Loyal General Rebels

The Loyal General Rebels Loyalty Reinterpreted Macbett and Banco adopt the rebels’ complaints about extraction, property, and royal power. New Conspiracy The men who defeated Duncan’s enemies prepare to kill him and take his place.

A Usurper Repeats the Pattern

A Usurper Repeats the Pattern Rule Through Fear Macbett demands praise and obedience, reacting violently to any sign that others may question his authority. Power Without Legitimacy His rule copies Duncan’s coercion while claiming to have corrected Duncan’s abuses.

Macol Promises More

Macol Promises More The Next Conqueror Macol replaces Macbett and announces that his own vices will exceed those of the dead ruler. No Political Resolution The final succession shows that removing a tyrant does not break a system organized around force.

At the beginning of the field scenes

After the battle’s outcome is announced

After Macbett’s reward and the Witches’ intervention

During Macbett’s reign

After Macbett’s defeat and Macol’s accession