In Shakespeare's 'Macbeth', what is Macbeth's title at the start of the play?

At the start of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Macbeth’s title is Thane of Glamis.

Macbeth is introduced as a brave and loyal Scottish general serving King Duncan during a civil war. The title of Thane of Glamis is hereditary: in the play, Macbeth has inherited it from his father, Sinel. His reputation at this point is that of Scotland’s heroic and undefeated warrior, long before ambition and prophecy change his character.

The main confusion comes from the witches’ greeting. They call Macbeth “Thane of Glamis,” “Thane of Cawdor,” and future king. He already possesses the first title, but the second is new: Duncan awards him the thaneship of Cawdor after its former holder betrays Scotland. Macbeth therefore becomes Thane of Cawdor shortly after the play begins, not before it.

Only later does Macbeth seize the crown by murdering Duncan. “King of Scotland” is thus a later status, while “Thane of Cawdor” is the title he receives during the opening action. The distinction is central to Shakespeare’s dramatic foreshadowing.