hem to a fairer death. The battle is won byMalcolms forces and in a closing address, the King to be promotes the Thanes to Earls, calls backthose exiled, and invites all present to the coronation in Scone.Again, in Holinsheds (pg. 176) the plot for this act is the same, with a fewexceptions. One is that Makbeths wife does not commit suicide. However, Malcolme doeslead his troops to Birnane wood and command that they carry branches in front of them asthey march. Makbeth realizing their numbers instead flees, Makduffe gives chase untilMakbeth leaps from his horse and says that he cannot be killed by Makduffe for that he isborn of woman. Makduffe replies to this that he was never borne of my mother but rippedout of her wombe and kills Makbeth, ending his reign.In Holinsheds (pg. 192) there are two different stories pertaining to Siward and thedeath of his son. The first is that one of Siwards sons was killed in this battle, and was toldthat the wounds were on the front of his body. Siward rejoiced to hear that his son diedmanfullie in battle. The other is that Siward sent his son with an army to reclaimScotland and Siwards son died while overseas. Upon hearing this news, Siward demandedto know whether the wound that killed him was on his frontside or his back. Being told thatthe wound was on his front he said I rejoice (saith he) even with all my heart, for I wouldnot wish either my sonne nor my selfe any other kind of death. (pg. 176) With victoryattained with the help of King Edward, Malcolme traveled to Scone for the coronation.After being crowned, Malcolme called a Scottish parliament and rewarded all who assistedhim in overthrowing Makbeth with confiscated lands. He also made many Earls, Lords,Barons, and Knights from the existing Thanes, these being the first earls known toScotland. As can be seen, Shakespeares use of Holinsheds is extensive. However, Holinsheddidnt write these events in sequence. The murder Shakespeare used is discu...
