a. Prior to the murder, Macbeth had recently been appointed the Thane of Cawdor after the treason and execution of the previous thane. To celebrate, Duncan and company visited Macbeth’s castle to feast and stay the night. The following morning Macduff was sent to awaken the King. To his horror, he found Duncan dead in his bed.
2. The murder
a. The king’s guards were responsible for Duncan’s safety that night, however, they and their daggers were found covered in blood. Duncan’s body had multiple stab wounds and slashes across his chest and neck. Upon seeing the King and the bloody guards, Macbeth slew the two men out of grief and anger. Macbeth said “It was impossible to keep my violent love for Duncan contained.