In Act 3, Scene 4 of Macbeth we are able to identify the disintegration of the characters of both Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in the agitated scene. Throughout this scene Shakespeare uses a number of techniques to present their characters in conflict, creating dramatic tension. From the darkness of Banquo's murder in the previous scene, there is a sudden change in tone, as the scene abruptly changes to the bustle of the banquet hall. The “Banquet Scene” is one of the most engaging scenes as it can be considered the cornerstone of the opera. Macbeth and Lady Macbeth need the banquet to be a success as this is the first time they will present themselves as monarchs and legitimate successors to the throne before society. However, this creates a fundamental sense of irony as the audience is aware that Macbeth and Lady Macbeth are illegitimate figures and have falsely usurped the crown. There is also a sense of comic relief as Macbeth publicly humiliates himself when supernaturally confronted with his sins. It is interesting to observe the changes in the characters of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth and their changing relationship after the appearance of Banquo's ghost. Shakespeare highlights the opulent atmosphere through the sumptuous descriptions of the banquet. The scene opens with Macbeth and Lady Macbeth's warm welcome to the lords as they must "play humble host", it being an important political phase in their lives. Here Shakespeare uses a metatheatrical reference that is dramatically effective in reminding the Jacobean audience of the falsity of their roles. Since they are illicit figures, they suggest...... middle of paper......the contradictory characters of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. This critical scene has continued to effectively impact audiences as a result. This scene continues to describe how Macbeth has become corrupt, "deadly murder", before he didn't even want to be associated with murder, but now he talks about it shamelessly. The play ends with Macbeth's confusion: "It will have blood, they say: blood will have blood / We are still young in fact." The ambiguous reference raises dramatic tension as it shows uncertainty through the use of tragic inevitability and the cycle of murders and the apprehension that there is more to come. Macbeth and Lady Macbeth must face the consequences of their actions; this saga did not end with their simple acquisition of the throne, "unfruitful crown", causing them to lose sight of their ultimate goal. Works Cited Macbeth, William Shakespeare