In act three, scene three of Macbeth, there are two murderers who Macbeth has persuaded to kill Banquo and his son Fleance. The murderers are waiting for their victims to pass by on their way back to the castle. While they are awaiting the arrival of Banquo and Fleance, a third murderer enters the scene and tells the other two that Macbeth sent him. There is nothing in the text itself that blatantly reveals the identity of the mysterious third murderer, but from some textual clues and simple logic, it is clear that the third murderer must be Macbeth himself.

It is not clear why Shakespeare would include an unidentified character in the play, but it does allow for one great discussion and debate. Even though there is no decisive textual reference to the identity of the third murderer, the choice that makes the most sense is Macbeth. Besides, for him to be physically involved in the murder leaves Banquo's blood and Duncan's blood on his hands. With the blood being on his hands for both murders, the effect of the tragedy is much stronger on Macbeth.

In addition, the third murderer is very familiar with Banquo's route and his habits. He says, "Almost a mile; but he does usually" (3.3.13). This is a clue that Macbeth is the third murderer since he knows Banquo well and would probably be aware of his typical behavior. Also, it is interesting to note that the third murderer attempts to cover up his knowledge. Macbeth follows his declaration of Banquo's habits with "So all men do" (14), in order to hide his identity from the other murderers.

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Another popular argument that opposers claim is that when the murderer comes to inform Macbeth of what happened, Macbeth inquires about the conditions of Banquo and Fleance. According to this argument, since Macbeth appears to have no previous knowledge of what happened, he could not be the third murderer. However, since Macbeth hid his identity from the two murderers while they were committing the terrible act, he would not make his identity known to them now. Macbeth is already aware that Fleance escaped during the struggle, but he does not want the murderers to know that he was there with them. In order to keep everything in order, Macbeth plays dumb. He is experienced in acting since he had to do the same thing after the murder of Duncan at the beginning of the play.

irst of all, Macbeth was very anxious to ensure of Banquo's death because of the witches prophecy that Banquo's line would inherit the throne. The third witch says to Banquo, "Thou shalt get kings, though thou be none" (1.3.67). Macbeth remembers this prophecy after he is king, and he thinks that if Banquo and his son are dead, there will be no future problems for him. If Macbeth's plan

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Approximate Word count = 1525
Approximate Pages = 6 (250 words per page double spaced)