Macbeth of Scotland

Macbeth defeated and killed King Duncan I in battle at Pitgaveny near Elgin. Macbeth then claimed the Scottish throne, becoming King of Scots. This event is the basis for Shakespeare's play, though the historical circumstances differ from the fictional account.

Macbeth made a pilgrimage to Rome, where he was received by Pope Leo IX and distributed alms to the poor. This was a significant act of piety and diplomacy, demonstrating Macbeth's legitimacy as a Christian king and his connections to the wider European church.

Macbeth was defeated at the Battle of Dunsinane by an army led by Siward, Earl of Northumbria, acting on behalf of Malcolm Canmore. The defeat weakened Macbeth's position but did not immediately end his reign, as he continued to rule for three more years.

Macbeth was killed at the Battle of Lumphanan in Aberdeenshire, fighting against Malcolm Canmore's forces. His death ended his 17-year reign and allowed Malcolm to claim the throne. Macbeth's stepson Lulach succeeded briefly before being killed by Malcolm.