The Real Macbeth

Overview

Immortalised by Shakespeare, “Macbeth” weaves a story of an ambitious nobleman whose desire for power is emboldened by a prophecy. Together with his equally ambitious wife, the play charts their murderous campaign for the throne of Scotland.

Macbeth has entranced audiences accross the world with its themes of betrayal, murder and witchcraft. Yet for centuries, myths and superstitions have developed around the historical figure of Macbeth, blurring the lines between fact and fiction.

While Shakespeare may have drawn inspiration from this character, the real story of Macbeth is much richer - he won the crown through battle, confronted political uprisings and Norse invaders, and made holy pilgrimages to Rome, playing a key role in shaping Scotland’s identity.

Join historian Dr Lauren Mackay to meet the real Macbeth, separate the man from the myth, and understand the fascinating historical context for Shakespeare’s legendary creation.