Embark on a journey through the annals of Scottish history and Shakespearean imagination as we explore the legacy of the real and fictional King Macbeth. Beyond the pages of Shakespeare's tragedy lies a complex figure, a medieval monarch who reigned over Morayshire in the early 11th century. Macbeth, known as Mac bethad Mac findláich, ruled Moray before ascending to the throne of Scotland, leaving an indelible mark on the country's history. Join me in deciphering the intertwined threads of fact and fiction as we delve into Macbeth's life, his accomplishments, and the fascinating places associated with his reign.
Unraveling Fact from Fiction
Macbeth ruled the kingdom of Moray, where it is believed he was born. Others dispute this, believing he was born where the village of Dingwall, north of Inverness, stands today. Unlike Shakespeare's portrayal, the historical Macbeth held a legitimate claim to the throne. His marriage with Gruoch (Lady Macbeth) endured for 24 years, marked by determined struggles for power. Macbeth’s legitimacy is not reflected in the play's narrative. Far from the weak and unstable villain depicted by Shakespeare, Macbeth was acknowledged as a wise and brave king. A 17-year reign was marked by peace, prosperity, and groundbreaking legal reforms.
Macbeth's legacy includes enacting laws that granted daughters the same inheritance rights as sons. And ensuring court officers defended women and orphans, akin to today's legal aid. His generosity to the church and promotion of Christianity showcased a ruler far removed from the flawed character depicted in Shakespeare's play. As we unravel the real Macbeth, let us explore the places that bear witness to this historical figure's footsteps.
Places Associated with Macbeth: A Historical Odyssey or Literary Red Herring?
Forres:
Forres has a dark history of witch-hunting, carrying echoes of the supernatural elements from Macbeth. The "Witches Stone" in front of the police station marks the resting spot of a barrel used for executing accused witches. The accused were placed in barrels at the top of Cluny Hill. Spikes hammered into each barrel. Then with a heave, the barrels rolled down the hill. Where they came to rest was the chosen burial place for the mangled body inside.
This is a brutal aspect of medieval Scotland. Spotlighted by recent academic studies providing a fresh understanding of the social reasons for the witchcraft mania that swept the county. Some historians believe Cluny Hill, above the town, was the site of a Macbeth fortification. It certainly is a good strategic point to survey the flat Morayshire countryside to the north. Look at a map and to the west you will see Macbeth’s Hillock marked. This supposedly is the blasted heath where Shakespeare’s witches gathered for their prophetic announcements.
Cawdor Castle:
Cawdor Castle, although not directly tied to Macbeth's time, holds a unique charm and historical significance. Macbeth was granted the title of "Thane of Cawdor" by King Duncan, adding a Shakespearean link to the castle. Explore the fine furnishings, well-manicured gardens, and the tower room with its hidden dungeon.
Alas, any real connection is imaginary. Cawdor was built nearly four centuries after Macbeth. But you can imagine Macbeth striding up the spiral stairs. Lady Macbeth lurking in the shadows. Within the gardens, I saw one of my favourite productions, performed in the open air, of Macbeth. So I am glad that Shakespeare makes a playful nod to a historical and theatrical castle.
Inverness:
Inverness plays a big part in Shakespeare’s play. It is the scene of Duncan’s bloody murder at the hands of Macbeth. Within the castle walls he, and his scheming wife, descend into madness. Though Inverness Castle stands as a modern structure, locals claim sightings of King Duncan's ghost along the River Ness. We know from archaeological evidence that Castelhill is the site of much older fortifications. Is there any connection with Macbeth? We have to head to the residential district called Castle and Auldcastle Road to find out.
Stroll along Auldcastle Road, on a hilltop, and imagine the strategic advantage it provided for a castle. Archaeologists suggest a wooden fortification existed here at the time of Macbeth. If so, this was one of many castles and forts he controlled. There's no record of Duncan's murder at Inverness. Most historians believe Duncan was killed on the battlefield at Pitgaveny close to Elgin. However, the ghostly tales along the River Ness contribute to the legend.
Scone Moot Hill:
Picture Macbeth's ascent to the top of Moot Hill at Scone, where the Stone of Destiny awaited his coronation. In time, others followed him for their coronation - Robert the Bruce and Charles II amongst many others. Visitors today can sit on a replica stone at Scone Palace, and become king for the day. The Stone of Destiny is now displayed at Edinburgh Castle and remains a vital element in our coronation ceremonies. In Spring 2024, the stone will move to a new exhibition centre at Perth Museum a few miles from where it originally stood.
"Moot Hill" is thought to trace its origins back to an ancient custom intricately tied to early coronation ceremonies. In an era marked by turbulence and peril, the practicality of long journeys for monarchs was dangerous. Instead, noblemen symbolized their allegiance distinctively. Carrying soil from their land, often concealed within their boots, these noblemen would converge on the hill. And, in a symbolic gesture, spill the soil onto the mound. This ritual showcased the nobility's unwavering loyalty.
Birnam Wood:
Birnam Wood, though not conclusively proven to be from Macbeth's time, stands as a living testament to Shakespeare's fantastical imagery. The quaint village of Birnam, with its local pubs, provides a charming backdrop to reflect on the challenge of history versus fiction.
The gnarled and ancient Birnam Oak stands within the remnant of Birnam Wood. Although an old tree, it is too young to have sheltered Malcolm’s advancing army. The three witches' prophecy is fantastical. Whilst, the play envisioned a moving forest camouflaging an army, Birnam Wood is the perfect cover for an army before the battle. Legend has it that the seeds of inspiration for a pivotal section of "The Scottish Play" were sown during Shakespeare's sojourn through Scotland in 1599. The bard, part of a travelling troupe, embarked on this journey following a royal request from King James VI to Elizabeth I for entertainers.
Dunsinane Hill:
Although little remains of the hill fort, Dunsinane Hill invites visitors to an atmospheric spot. The uneven landscape, with the outlines of two Iron Age hill-forts, provides a glimpse into Macbeth's strategic military considerations. Imagine standing where Macbeth once stood, contemplating the challenges of warfare in the 11th century. There are panoramic views from Dunsinane Hill, with its rolling hills and distant horizons. From here you can see Birnam Wood, so any approaching army would need the cover of tree camouflage to attack.
Dunsinane Hill is the location for the wonderfully named Battle of the Seven Sleepers. While the play envisions a pitched battle, the hill's topography suggests a more plausible scenario of sieges and strategic manoeuvres. The battle ended in defeat for Macbeth, with heavy losses for both armies. Macbeth retreated northwards surrendering land to his enemy Malcolm.
Lumphanan:
The small Aberdeenshire village of Lumphanan stands amongst rich agricultural lands. But it is the site of Macbeth's final defeat and death. Today, it is a peaceful place where it doesn’t seem possible that a turbulent end of Macbeth's 17-year reign took place. Drive through the village and you would be hard-pressed to notice its historical significance.
Chroniclers suggest that Macbeth and his small army were ambushed by Malcolm’s forces near the Peel of Lumphanan. This is a small, lumpy hill fortification close to the modern village. It’s an unassuming landmark for the dramatic conclusion to Macbeth's rule. The defeated king’s body was either found among the slain or he was captured. Local legend says he was captured and taken to the decapitation stone near Cairnbeathie Farm. Here he was brutally executed.
Iona:
Iona, a picturesque island off the west coast of Scotland, serves as the final resting place for Scottish kings, including Macbeth. The tranquil landscape, dotted with ancient tombstones and overlooking the azure waters, creates an evocative setting. Iona Abbey, adds a spiritual and contemplative atmosphere to the island.
Why are former rulers buried here? The abbey marks the spot of St Columba’s Shrine. It is here that Columba settled after leaving Ireland. From here, along with his followers, he spread Christianity across Scotland and Northern England. After his death, it became a place of pilgrimage. Macbeth would want his final resting place on this hallowed ground. As close as possible to the revered saint.
Conclusion: A Tapestry of History and Imagination
As we navigate through the historical landscapes tied to Macbeth's legacy, let us celebrate the rich tapestry woven by both fact and fiction. From the strategic forts of Dunsinane Hill to the emotive Lumphanan, and the enigmatic Birnam Oak, each location beckons travelers to explore the layers of Scotland's past. In the heart of these landscapes, the real Macbeth emerges, a ruler whose story surpasses the confines of Shakespeare's tragic masterpiece.
If you feel inspired to go on your own Macbeth journey you can find the places mentioned in this article on this Google Map. And if like me, you are a fan of the play read my review of a recent production starring Ralph Fiennes.