Those he commands, move only in command, nothing in love

To remember this quote use the following mnemonic.

Those he commands. 

They move only in, when I command. 

Nothing should move in if I say love. 

"Those he commands, move only in command, nothing in love." Act 5, scene 2, line 19. This quote is spoken by Angus, a Scottish nobleman as Macbeth's enemies prepare to confront him.

Meaning

• "Those he commands, move only in command, nothing in love." - Angus is saying that Macbeth's soldiers obey him only because they have to, not because they respect or love him.

• Overall interpretation - Macbeth's leadership has failed. He has lost the loyalty and moral support of his people, and now rules through fear, not admiration. 

Exam advice 

• Context - Macbeth is now seen as a tyrant. Even his own men are only serving him out of duty or fear, not loyalty. 

• Theme of kingship and tyranny - Shakespeare contrasts Macbeth's illegitimate rule with the kind of honourable leadership Duncan and Malcolm present. 

• Character decline - This line shows how Macbeth has become isolated and despised, even by those close to him. His ambition has cost him everything. 

• Moral judgement - The nobles see Macbeth not just as a bad leader but as someone who doesn't deserve the crown. 

• Foreshadowing - His army will soon abandon him or fight poorly. This line hints at his downfall.