Decoding the Riddle of the Third Murderer in Macbeth

Introduction

William Shakespeare's Macbeth introduces us to a world of both supernatural forces and human ambition. One intriguing aspect of the play is the involvement of the third murderer and the third witch. Despite their similar names, they serve distinct roles and represent different thematic elements within the narrative. In this article, we explore why the third murderer is not the third witch, delving into the plot, symbolism, and the potential ambiguities in the original text.

The Role and Function of the Three Witches

The three witches, also known as the Weird Sisters, serve as supernatural agents in Macbeth. They prophesize Macbeth's rise to power and foreshadow his eventual downfall. These characters symbolize the chaotic forces of nature, ambition, and fate. The witches' role is passive in terms of the actions they instigate, remaining separate from the mortal world and acting as external influences on Macbeth's decisions.

Contrastingly, the third murderer is a human character who plays a direct role in the assassination of Banquo. This stark difference in their roles highlights the shift in the play's focus from supernatural prophecy to human action and guilt.

The Plot Development and Theme of Betrayal

The appearance of the third murderer in the scene against Banquo underscores the theme of betrayal and Macbeth's descent into tyranny. By sending murderers to kill both Banquo and Fleance, Macbeth demonstrates his transformation from a once-noble hero to a tyrant willing to commit heinous acts to maintain his power. This scene reflects the darker side of ambition and the lengths to which a powerful individual will go to secure and protect their position.

Symbols and Moral Decay

The witches symbolize the chaotic forces of nature and the moral ambiguity of ambition and fate. The third murderer, on the other hand, represents the consequences of Macbeth's ambition and moral decay. Macbeth's increasing isolation and reliance on others to commit violence on his behalf illustrate his growing detachment from the moral fabric of society. The third murderer's presence adds an element of mystery and tension to the scene, raising questions about Macbeth's paranoia and the extent of his involvement in the plot against Banquo.

The Mystery of the Third Murderer

The true identity of the third murderer remains a mystery. Some scholars and directors suggest that the third murderer could be the third witch, while others propose alternative interpretations. For instance, some productions have reimagined the character of Seyton, Macbeth's standard-bearer, as an evil factotum who could serve the role of the third murderer. However, there is no definitive answer, as the original text and manuscripts have been lost or modified over time, leading to various interpretations.

The third murderer is an anomaly in the context of the play as it exists today. The character's function and significance are unclear, and his appearance adds to the complex web of themes and ambiguities in Macbeth. As the play has been reshaped over the centuries to appeal to different audiences and contexts, the mystery and ambiguity surrounding the third murderer remain a testament to the play's enduring complexity and the ongoing discussions about its true intentions and meanings.

Conclusion

The third murderer in Macbeth serves a different narrative and thematic purpose than the witches, highlighting Macbeth's descent into tyranny and the moral implications of his actions. While the true identity of the third murderer remains a mystery, his presence and function contribute to the rich tapestry of themes and ambiguities that make Macbeth one of Shakespeare's most compelling and complex works.