Lady Macbeth, as a fictional character from William Shakespeare's tragedy Macbeth, does not have a real-world burial place. Her death occurs off-stage, and the play itself does not describe her burial.
However, the moniker "Lady Macbeth" has been applied to historical figures, most notably Mirjana Markovic, the widow of late Serbian strongman Slobodan Milošević. She was often referred to as the "Lady Macbeth of the Balkans" due to the significant influence she held over her husband.
Understanding the Burial of "Lady Macbeth"
To provide a comprehensive answer, it's crucial to distinguish between the literary figure and the historical individual to whom the title was metaphorically applied.
1. Lady Macbeth (Fictional Character)
- Origin: A central character in William Shakespeare's renowned tragedy, Macbeth. She is depicted as a ruthless and ambitious woman who instigates her husband to commit regicide and seize the throne of Scotland.
- Fate in the Play: Lady Macbeth's mental state deteriorates after the murder of King Duncan. She is plagued by guilt and sleepwalking, culminating in her death, which is reported to Macbeth. The play strongly suggests she died by suicide, though it is not explicitly shown, nor is her burial described.
- Burial Location: As a creation of literature, Lady Macbeth does not have a physical grave or a documented burial site in the real world. Her existence is confined to the narrative of the play.
2. Mirjana Markovic ("Lady Macbeth of the Balkans")
Mirjana Markovic, a prominent figure in Serbian politics, was widely known by the evocative nickname "Lady Macbeth of the Balkans." This designation underscored her powerful influence and perceived manipulative role in the political career and actions of her husband, Slobodan Milošević.
The details of her burial are concrete:
| Individual | Description | Burial Location | Key Reason for Nickname |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mirjana Markovic ("Lady Macbeth of the Balkans") | Widow of former Serbian President Slobodan Milošević; influential academic and politician. | Požarevac, Serbia, near the grave of Slobodan Milošević. | Her significant, often controversial, influence on her husband's political decisions. |
Her funeral took place in Požarevac, Serbia, where she was laid to rest close to her husband's grave. This location serves as the actual burial site for the person colloquially known as "Lady Macbeth."
