When King Duncan visits their castle, Lady Macbeth persuades Macbeth to murder him. Although Macbeth feels deep guilt and hesitation, he commits the crime. After Duncan’s sons flee in fear, Macbeth becomes king. However, gaining power does not bring peace. Macbeth becomes paranoid, especially about Banquo, whose sons were prophesied to rule. He hires murderers to kill Banquo, but although Banquo is killed, his son Fleance escapes.