Understanding Macbeth: The Real Story Behind The Tragedy (1005-1057)

Have you ever wondered about the real-life figure behind Shakespeare's iconic character Macbeth? The historical Macbeth MacFindlaech, who ruled as king of Scotland in the 11th century, presents a vastly different narrative than the blood-thirsty tyrant depicted in the play. This article aims to unravel the complex life of Macbeth, exploring his rise to power, reign, and eventual downfall, while distinguishing fact from fiction.

Born in Alba around 1005, Macbeth belonged to a lineage intertwined with Scottish royalty. His life was characterized by significant historical events and political intrigue, which shaped his rule and legacy. Join us as we delve into the fascinating details of his early life, military conquests, and the challenges he faced during his reign.

This exploration is not only for history enthusiasts but also for those intrigued by how stories evolve over time. Discover how the real Macbeth's life inspired one of the most famous tragedies in literature and what lessons we can learn from his journey.

Table of Contents

• Synopsis
• Early Life
• Earl of Moray
• King of Scotland
• Military Defeat and Death
• Quick Facts

Synopsis

Macbeth took the throne after killing his cousin, King Duncan I, in battle in 1040. In 1046, Siward, earl of Northumbria, unsuccessfully attempted to dethrone Macbeth in favor of Malcolm. In 1054, Macbeth was forced by Siward to yield part of southern Scotland to Malcolm. Three years later, Macbeth was killed in battle by Malcolm, with assistance from the English.

Early Life

Considered to be one of the last Gaelic kings, the real Macbeth MacFindlaech was not the murderous, terrible character of William Shakespeare's The Tragedy of Macbeth. Macbeth was born in Alba in central Scotland around 1005—the same year that his grandfather became king. His father, Findlaech MacRuaridh, was mormaer (an earl) of Moray, a province in northern Scotland. His mother, Doada, was the second daughter of Malcolm II. Historians describe the young Macbeth as tall, fair-haired, and handsome, with a ruddy complexion.

Earl of Moray

At the age of 7, Macbeth was sent to a Christian monastery to be educated by monks—a requirement for all important chieftains' sons. At age 15, Macbeth's cousins, Malcolm and Gillecomgain, killed his father, possibly for being too close to Malcolm II, king of Scotland. After his tutelage, Macbeth reappeared around 1032 when his cousin, Gillecomgain, was killed by order of Malcolm II for his killing of Findlaech. Macbeth was then elected mormaer of Moray, and soon married Gillecomgain's widow, Gruoch, and adopted her son, Lulach. The marriage strengthened his claim to the throne.

King of Scotland

In 1040, Duncan opened up two fronts. The attack on the Orkneys was led by his nephew, Moddan, and Duncan led a force toward Northumbria. Both armies were soon routed and reformed only to be pursued by Thorfinn, mormaer of Orkney. Macbeth joined Thorfinn and, together, they were victorious, killing Moddan. On August 14, 1040, Macbeth defeated Duncan's army, killing him in the process. Later that month, Macbeth led his forces to Scone, the Scottish capital, and, at age 35, he was crowned king of Scotland.

Military Defeat and Death

In time, Malcolm's efforts led to action. In 1054, Siward, earl of Northumbria, accompanied by Malcolm, led an army north into Scotland. Meeting little resistance from the southern provinces, they continued north. On July 27, 1054, Macbeth's forces met the invaders in Dunsinnan, close to the capital in Scone. By the end of the battle, 3,000 of Macbeth's forces had fallen. The invaders only lost 1,500, but the outcome was indecisive. Macbeth retrenched his army near Scone and Malcolm moved south to control Cumbria, the southernmost province of Scotland.

Quick Facts