Macbeth, king of Moray (1032-57) and king of Scotland (1040-57)

d. 1057

Macbeth is better known through Shakespeare's eponymous play than as a historical figure. But the reality of his life and rule was dramatic enough. In 1032 he avenged the death of his father by burning his cousin, the king of Moray and marrying the victim's widow. He killed Duncan I in 1040 to become king of Scotland and by 1050 was secure enough to visit Rome. His rule even survived defeat at the hands of Duncan's son Malcolm and Siward of Northumbria at the battle of Dunsinnan in 1054, although he did have to allow Malcolm's return from exile. He was killed by Malcolm at the battle of Lumphanan in 1057.

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