Act I: Exposition: The exposition is quite unclear since the characters are introduced throughout the first part of the play. The entire first act might be a very long exposition. The Witches’ predictions.
Act II: Complication: The main conflict becomes more and more complex. The rising action is when some of the prophecies are coming true and Lady Macbeth is trying to convince Macbeth to kill King Duncan. The murder of Duncan.
Act III: Crisis: The turning point in the action – point of no return. The murder of Banquo.
Act IV: Resolution: The dramatic elements become clearer – the two forces in conflict (good versus evil) grow stronger. All the events occurring after the murder where Macbeth tries to hide his crime and maintain his position as a king ” the falling action. Furthermore, Lady Macbeth goes insane. The murder of Lady Macduff.
Act V: Dénouement/Disclosure: The “untying of the knots” ” Lady Macbeth dies and Macbeth is executed. Malcolm becomes a king. The dénouement contains the catastrophe and the emotional climax. Retribution: Crime doesn’t pay.
