In this episode, we’ll explore Act 1, Scenes 4 and 5 of Macbeth, focusing on ambition and manipulation. We’ll discuss King Duncan’s announcement that Malcolm will be his heir, unsettling Macbeth and intensifying his desire for the throne. We’ll examine Macbeth’s aside, where he acknowledges his ambition despite its disloyalty. Then, we’ll turn to Lady Macbeth’s introduction as she reads Macbeth’s letter about the witches’ prophecy. Fearing he lacks the ruthlessness to seize power, she resolves to influence him, calling upon dark spirits to harden her resolve. Finally, we’ll consider how Lady Macbeth makes her ambitions clear upon Macbeth’s arrival.

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