The second encounter between Macbeth and the three witches marks the beginning of the falling action in the play. They warn Macbeth to be cautious of Macduff, but also proclaim that no one born of a woman will cause him harm. They inform him that he should not be concerned until Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane. When he inquires about Banquo’s offspring, the witches reveal a vision showing eight kings from the Stuart line, along with Banquo appearing behind this procession. This frightens Macbeth and instills a sense of insecurity in him. He resolves to take measures to secure his future. This point signifies the start of the falling action, which concludes with Macbeth’s confrontation with Macduff.
In earlier parts of the play, the unnatural assassinations of Duncan and Banquo disrupt moral order. Initially, Macbeth had ethical reservations. Lady Macbeth chastises him for his hesitation to achieve his ambitions, referring to him as "too full of the milk of human kindness." However, as the story progresses, he relinquishes his moral scruples. By the conclusion of act IV, Macbeth's tyranny peaks as his overwhelming desire to solidify his throne's security overrides all sense of morality. Consequently, he orders the murder of Macduff and his family. While Macduff escapes death, his wife and children are killed by hired assassins.
