Expert: Mark Smith - 6/23/2004

Question
Dorothy Dunnett wrote about Macbeth in 'King Hereafter' Her research led her to believe that the Viking, Thorfinn of the Orkneys could have used the name, Macbeth when he ruled part of Scotland in the 11th century. Other historians always have them as two diferent men.
Do you think it possible that Dorothy is right?
Would more research help?
Thank you for considering my questions.  

Answer
Hello Maree. I've never come across this theory before. I've always considered Thorfinn and Macbeth to be half-brothers, both sons of Donada (daughter of Kenneth II). Macbeth, the elder, by her marriage to Finlay, Mormaer of Moray and Thorfinn by her marriage to Sigurd, Jarl of Orkney and Caithness.
The fact that they both married, but only Thorfinn produced children (two sons) would seem to settle the argument. Because if the sons were Macbeth's then they would have had a claim to the Scottish throne and proclaimed as such when Macbeth was killed. The fact that they did not indicates that they were the issue of someone other than Macbeth. Does that make sense ?
Have you read "Macbeth the King" by Nigel Tranter ? It is an excellent novel based on historical fact about Macbeth and Thorfinn.
Mark