Page 30 - Macbeth Modern Translation

Macbeth Modern Translation: Act 3, Scene 1

It had all happened so fast. Banquo was a guest of the King at Forres once
more but it was a new king now. It was difficult to know what to think about it.
Macbeth had it all now: King, Cawdor, Glamis – everything. Just as the weird
women had promised. And Banquo feared that his friend had played a
terrible hand to get it. Still, they had prophesied that it wouldn’t stay in his line

but that he himself would be the root and father of many kings. If it had all
come true for Macbeth wouldn’t it happen for him too?

Heralds at the entrance to the state rooms came to attention and blew a
brassy fanfare. The King and Queen emerged into the courtyard.

‘Ah,’ said Macbeth. ‘Here’s our chief guest.’

Banquo went across to them.

‘It would be a gap in our great feast if he wasn’t going to be there,’ said the
Queen. The Royal couple smiled graciously.

‘We’re having a formal banquet tonight, Sir,’ said Lady Macbeth. ‘And I’ll
expect you.’

Banquo bowed. ‘Whatever your Highness commands I will obey. I am bound
to you with an indissoluble tie.’

Macbeth swept the formality aside by putting his arm around Banquo’s
shoulders and walking him aside. ‘Are you going out this afternoon?’

‘Yes, my Lord,’ said Banquo.

‘Pity,’ said Macbeth, ‘because I would have valued your good advice in
today’s council. But tomorrow will do. Are you going far?’

‘A few hours ride, there and back,’ said Banquo. ‘I’ll be back by suppertime.
Unless my horse has difficulty. In which case it will be a bit longer.’

‘Don’t miss our banquet.’

‘I won’t, my Lord.’

Macbeth beamed at him and gave him a playful punch. Then his face

became serious. ‘We hear our murderous cousins are hiding in England and
Ireland,’ he said. ‘Refusing to admit the cruel murder of their father, telling
outrageous lies to anyone who’ll listen. But more of that tomorrow when we’ll
work on state matters together. You’d better go then. Goodbye. See you
tonight.’

They started off in different directions. Then Macbeth turned and called after

Banquo: ‘Is Fleance going with you?’

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