A Shakespeare lesson I learned From Francis McElwee

 

The phrase "Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane" is from William Shakespeare's play Macbeth. It is a prophecy spoken by the three witches in Act IV, Scene I. The prophecy tells Macbeth that he will be safe until Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane.

Macbeth believes that the prophecy is impossible, because Birnam Wood is a large forest, and it is not possible for it to move. However, in the final scene of the play, the Scottish forces led by Malcolm Canmore and Siward approach Dunsinane Hill carrying branches from Birnam Wood. This fulfills the prophecy, and Macbeth is killed by Macduff.

The phrase "Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane" has come to be used figuratively to describe a situation in which something that is thought to be impossible happens. It can also be used to describe a situation in which someone is overthrown or defeated.

The phrase is often used in politics and business. For example, a politician might say that "Birnam Wood is coming to Dunsinane" to mean that their opponent is about to be defeated. A businessperson might say that "Birnam Wood is coming to Dunsinane" to mean that their company is about to be overtaken by a competitor.

The phrase "Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane" is a reminder that even the most powerful people can be overthrown. It is also a reminder that even the most impossible things can happen.

The Battle of Duncan's Lane, also known as the Battle of the Seven Sleepers, was fought on July 27, 1054, between the forces of Macbeth, King of Scotland, and forces led by Siward, Earl of Northumbria, and Malcolm Canmore. The battle was part of a campaign launched by Siward in support of Malcolm's claim to the Scottish throne, which Macbeth had gained after killing Malcolm's father, Duncan I of Scotland, at the Battle of Pitgaveny in 1040.

The battle took place near Dunsinane Hill in Perthshire, Scotland. The exact location of the battle is unknown, but it is thought to have been fought in a wooded area near the village of Dunsinane.

The battle was a bloody one, with both sides suffering heavy casualties. In the end, Siward's forces were victorious, and Macbeth was killed. Malcolm Canmore was crowned King of Scotland the following year.

The Battle of Duncan's Lane was a significant event in Scottish history. It marked the end of Macbeth's reign and the beginning of the reign of Malcolm Canmore, who would go on to become one of the most successful kings in Scottish history.

The battle is also notable for its literary significance. It is mentioned in Shakespeare's play Macbeth, and it is the setting for the final scene of the play, in which Macbeth is killed by Macduff.

The Battle of Duncan's Lane is a reminder of the bloody and violent nature of Scottish history. It is also a reminder of the importance of the Scottish throne and the role that it has played in shaping the country's history.