Macbeth: Guilt

"Till he unseam'd him from the nave to th’ chops"

Macbeth is presented as a hero as his violence is for the King not against him.

Theme: Initial Portrayal of Masculinity and Heroism: Mr Salles would highlight how this quote initially presents Macbeth as a formidable and ruthless warrior, celebrated for his strength and violence in battle. This establishes a very masculine image of Macbeth, aligning with the martial society depicted in the early acts. The extreme nature of the violence ("unseam'd him from the nave to the chaps") emphasizes his prowess and would have impressed a Jacobean audience who valued military might.

The excessive violence here foreshadows Macbeth’s darker side and the sins he will commit.

Theme: The Nature of Violence and Bloodlust: Mr Salles might explore how this early depiction of extreme violence foreshadows Macbeth's capacity for brutality and potential descent into bloodlust. While initially presented as heroic, this capacity for such graphic violence hints at a darker side that will later be unleashed through ambition and the witches' influence. The quote serves as an early indicator that Macbeth's identity is intertwined with violence, a trait that ultimately becomes his hamartia.

The hero’s fall from grace to a “butcher”, embodies the cautionary tale regarding disruption of the natural order.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare deliberately introduces Macbeth in this heroic light to make his subsequent fall from grace all the more tragic. By establishing him as a celebrated figure who defends Scotland, Shakespeare emphasizes the devastating consequences of ambition and regicide. This aligns with Shakespeare's purpose to present a cautionary tale regarding the disruption of the social order and the divine right of kings, potentially to flatter King James and his court. The initial heroism makes his transformation into a "butcher" even more striking and impactful.

"Why do I yield to that suggestion / Whose horrid image doth unfix my hair?"

Regicide is unnatural and it affects him deeply.

Theme: The Temptation and Horror of Regicide: Mr Salles would point out how this quote immediately reveals the powerful and disturbing nature of the "suggestion" - the idea of killing King Duncan - in Macbeth's mind. The phrase "horrid image" signifies the moral repugnance Macbeth feels towards this thought, highlighting the violation of natural and divine order. The physical reaction ("doth unfix my hair") emphasizes the profound and unnatural impact of this nascent ambition, suggesting a disruption of his inner state caused by considering regicide.

Internal conflict as his witch-fueled ambition attacks his loyalty: he knows he is being influenced externally.

Theme: Internal Conflict and the Power of Suggestion: Mr Salles might analyse how this quote demonstrates Macbeth's internal struggle between his loyalty and his burgeoning ambition fuelled by the witches' prophecy. The question "Why do I yield to that suggestion?" reveals that he is aware of an external influence or an internal inclination towards this dark path, even though it horrifies him. This introduces the theme of how external prophecies and perhaps subtle encouragement can ignite and amplify pre-existing desires or vulnerabilities within an individual, leading to significant moral conflict.

Macbeth is complex and showing his initial morality is a stark contrast to the end and emphasises the tragic nature of listening to ambition and ignoring guilt.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would suggest that Shakespeare's purpose would be to immediately establish Macbeth as a complex character who is not simply a power-hungry villain from the outset. By showing his initial horror and struggle, Shakespeare makes his subsequent descent into tyranny more psychologically compelling and tragic. This aligns with Shakespeare's purpose to explore the destructive nature of unchecked ambition and the psychological consequences of regicide, potentially as a warning about the dangers of disrupting the established social and political order.

"Yet do I fear thy nature; / It is too full o' th' milk of human kindness"

Macbeth is innocent and has a moral compass right now.

Theme: Lady Macbeth's Assessment of Macbeth's Character: Mr Salles would highlight how this quote reveals Lady Macbeth's early and accurate understanding of her husband's disposition. She perceives his inherent "milk of human kindness" as a significant obstacle to achieving their shared ambition, specifically the crown. This suggests that Macbeth, at this point, possesses a moral compass and a reluctance towards violence and treachery, a stark contrast to Lady Macbeth's ruthlessness. This establishes a central conflict within their relationship and foreshadows Lady Macbeth's manipulative role in attempting to overcome Macbeth's perceived weakness.

Macbeth is too feminine and needs to “man up”

Theme: Gender Roles and the Redefinition of Masculinity: Mr Salles might analyse how the phrase "milk of human kindness" can be interpreted through the lens of Jacobean gender roles. "Milk" is traditionally associated with feminine and nurturing qualities. Lady Macbeth's fear that Macbeth is "too full" of it suggests that she believes his inherent compassion and perhaps traditionally "feminine" traits will prevent him from taking the decisive and cruel action she deems necessary for political advancement. Her subsequent desire to be "unsexed" and filled with "direst cruelty" further emphasizes her rejection of conventional femininity and her belief that "masculinity" equates to a lack of remorse and the capacity for violence.

Corrupting influence of ambition and women.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare's purpose in highlighting this observation by Lady Macbeth in the early play is to establish the initial moral distance between the couple and to highlight the corrupting influence and external suggestion (from the witches and later his wife) on Macbeth's inherent goodness. By showing Lady Macbeth's initial perception of her husband's kindness as a weakness, Shakespeare potentially makes his eventual descent into tyranny more impactful and tragic. This also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the disruption of the natural order, which could be seen as a subtle lesson for the Jacobean court.

"Come, you spirits / That tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here, / And fill me, from the crown to the toe, top-full / Of direst cruelty! . Make thick my blood, / Stop up th' access and passage to remorse, / That no compunctious visitings of nature / Shake my fell purpose, nor keep peace between / Th' effect and it!"

LM rejects femininity and embraces masculinity.

Theme: Rejection of Femininity and Embrace of Masculine Capacity for Cruelty: Mr Salles would emphasize how this powerful soliloquy reveals Lady Macbeth's deliberate and explicit rejection of her feminine nature. Her plea to be "unsexed" and filled with "direst cruelty" highlights her understanding that societal expectations associated with nurturing and compassion are obstacles to achieving her ambitions. She seeks to transcend perceived limitations of her gender and embrace a more "masculine", ruthless nature, demanding that her blood be thickened to prevent feelings of remorse.

Ambition and supernatural play a part in her evil.

Theme: The Corrupting Influence of Ambition and the Supernatural: Mr Salles might analyse how Lady Macbeth's invocation to "you spirits / That tend on mortal thoughts" illustrates the intersection of human ambition and the perceived supernatural. She believes that external forces can aid her in suppressing her natural feminine instincts and bolstering her capacity for evil. Her desire to be filled "from the crown to the toe, top-full / Of direst cruelty!" emphasizes the totality and extent to which she is willing to abandon moral principles to achieve her goals. This links to the idea that evil can be consumed by an individual, leading to an unnatural state.

This establishes her as an unconventional female character, either a warning for women who go past their place in society, or the constrains on society force them to act this way.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this dramatic speech to establish Lady Macbeth as a formidable and unconventional female character. By showcasing her active rejection of traditional femininity and her willingness to embrace cruelty, Shakespeare creates a character whose actions and subsequent downfall contribute significantly to the play's tragic trajectory. This portrayal could be interpreted in multiple ways regarding gender roles, either as a warning against women who defy their expected roles and the natural order, or as a critique of societal constraints placed upon women, limiting their agency unless they adopt "masculine" traits. Additionally, this powerful imagery foreshadows the tragic consequences of their ambition and serves as a cautionary tale for the Jacobean audience about the dangers of regicide and disrupting the social hierarchy.

"I have no spur / To prick the sides of my intent, but only / Vaulting ambition, which o'erleaps itself / And falls on th' other—"

Macbeth only has ambition fueling him right now, which could be argued to not be enough until LM finally sways him, emphasised by her entering disrupting his words and getting him to “screw” his “courage to the sticking place”.

Theme: The Insufficiency and Danger of Ambition Alone: Mr Salles would highlight how this quote reveals that Macbeth recognizes his sole motivation for killing Duncan is "vaulting ambition", and that he lacks a legitimate "spur" or justifiable reason for the act. The metaphor of a horse rider lacking a physical spur indicates a lack of natural drive or moral justification for his intent. Furthermore, the phrase "o'erleaps itself / And falls on th' other—" suggests that ambition, when it is the only driving force, is inherently unstable and prone to failure. This foreshadows the disastrous consequences of Macbeth's actions, implying that ambition without a solid foundation will lead to ruin.

Without LM he has no compass, she will become his rider.

Theme: Internal Conflict and Lack of Clear Motivation: Mr Salles might analyse how this quote illustrates Macbeth's internal conflict and his awareness of the problematic nature of his desires. He acknowledges the ambition, but the lack of a "spur" suggests a hesitation or a recognition that this ambition is not a sufficient or morally sound reason to commit regicide. This demonstrates that Macbeth is not simply a power-hungry tyrant from the outset; he is conscious of the moral implications and the weakness of his motivation. This internal struggle makes his eventual surrender to ambition all the more significant and tragic, highlighting the power of overreaching moral conscience.

This underlines the tragedy and the drive of ambition fuels this, his downfall is also foreshadowed.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare's purpose in including this moment of self-awareness is to deepen the tragedy of Macbeth's character. By showing Macbeth's understanding that his ambition is a potentially destructive and insufficient motivator, Shakespeare makes his subsequent actions a deliberate choice against his own better judgments. This aligns with Shakespeare's purpose of presenting a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of unchecked ambition and the disruption of the natural order. The quote serves to highlight that Macbeth is not compelled by necessity or a noble cause but by a driving ambition that he himself recognizes as being prone to "fall", thus emphasizing the folly and ultimate downfall inherent in purely ambitious transgressions.

"I would, while it was smiling in my face, / Have pluck'd my nipple from his boneless gums, / And dash'd the brains out, had I so sworn as you"

LM is showing ruthless horrific ambition by suppressing her maternal instinct.

Theme: Lady Macbeth's Ruthless Determination and Rejection of Maternal Instinct: Mr Salles would highlight how this shocking statement reveals the extreme extent of Lady Macbeth's determination to spur Macbeth to action. The gruesome imagery of a violently defenceless infant, even one she had nurtured, demonstrates her complete suppression of natural maternal instincts and her willingness to commit the most heinous acts if she had sworn to do so. The phrase "had I so sworn as you" directly challenges Macbeth's perceived lack of resolve, implying that her commitment to her plans is far stronger than his. This underscores her ambition and belief that Macbeth's hesitation is a sign of weakness.

LM is rejecting her feminine traits and replacing them with what society see good in men: violence.

Theme: The Inversion of Nature and the Monstrous Feminine: Mr Salles might analyse how this quote embodies a profound inversion of natural order, particularly the nurturing role traditionally associated with women. By imagining such a brutal act against an innocent child, Lady Macbeth presents a monstrous image of femininity, deliberately rejecting the "milk of human kindness" she earlier feared was too prevalent in Macbeth. The violent and detailed imagery emphasizes the unnatural and horrific nature of her ambition. This aligns with the theme of "direst cruelty" she invoked earlier and suggests that her desire for power has corrupted her very essence.

Horrifies the audience by emphasizing the unnatural, immoral nature of regicide and anchors LM as a cautionary figure.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare deliberately employs this disturbing hyperbole to emphasize the unnatural and morally reprehensible nature of regicide. By having Lady Macbeth invoke such a shocking image, Shakespeare underscores the gravity of the oath (to commit the murder) and foreshadows the horrific consequences that will follow. This moment serves to heighten the audience's horror at the couple's ambition and furthers the idea that their actions are a profound violation of the natural and divine order. Furthermore, this powerful portrayal of Lady Macbeth as a cautionary figure challenges conventional portrayals of women in drama and could be seen as an exploration of the extreme lengths to which individuals might go in pursuit of power.

"Look like the innocent flower, / But be the serpent under't"

Contrast shows the deception at play and do not trust what you see.

Theme: Deception and the Contrast Between Appearance and Reality: Mr Salles would emphasise how this quote encapsulates the central theme of deception that pervades the play. Lady Macbeth advises Macbeth to appear innocent ("look like the innocent flower") to mask their treacherous intentions, while secretly being dangerous and deadly ("be the serpent under't"). This highlights the duplicity required to commit and conceal regicide, suggesting a calculated and manipulative approach to achieving their ambition. The imagery of the flower, traditionally associated with beauty and harmlessness, juxtaposed with the serpent, a biblical symbol of evil and temptation, creates a powerful and memorable illustration of their strategy.

Aligned with the devil, it adds religious weight to their actions.

Theme: Evil, Temptation, and Biblical Allusion: Mr Salles might analyse how the serpent is a clear biblical allusion to the serpent in the Garden of Eden, which symbolizes temptation, evil, and the fall from grace. By instructing Macbeth to embody this duality, Lady Macbeth is essentially urging him to embrace evil and betray the divinely ordained King Duncan. This connection to the biblical narrative adds a layer of moral and religious significance to their actions, suggesting that they are not only committing a political crime but also a sin against God's order. The phrase "Fair is foul, and foul is fair" echoes this theme of moral ambiguity and the deceptive nature of appearances.

Ambition is morally corrupting, it is hard to see

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this concise and potent metaphor to underscore the moral corruption at the heart of Macbeth's ambition. By showing Lady Macbeth as the instigator of this deception, Shakespeare highlights her manipulative power and her role in leading Macbeth down a path of evil. This instruction serves as a warning to the Jacobean audience about the dangers of duplicity and the potential for evil to hide beneath a facade of innocence. The play aims to illustrate the corrupting influence of ambition and the devastating consequences of disrupting the natural and divine order, a theme effectively captured in this iconic line.

"Is this a dagger which I see before me, / The handle toward my hand? Come, let me clutch thee."

Macbeth’s will against ambition is weakening as guilt is pushed aside, could be argued to be supernatural event.

Theme: Psychological State and the Blurred Lines of Reality: Mr Salles would highlight how this quote vividly portrays Macbeth's descending into madness as he contemplates the murder of Duncan. The hallucination of the dagger suggests his profound internal conflict and the increasingly blurred lines between his thoughts and reality. The rhetorical question ("Is this a dagger which I see before me…? ") emphasizes his uncertainty and psychological turmoil, indicating that his mind is being consumed by the "horrid image" of regicide. His impulse to "clutch thee" reveals a dangerous surrender to this violent vision, suggesting that his will is weakening against the pull of ambition.

Bloodlust is a hamartia of his, it is the blood on the dagger that really excites him.

Theme: The Manifestation of Bloodlust and Intent: Mr Salles might analyse how the tangible manifestation of Macbeth's internal desires, specifically his growing bloodlust and his intent to murder Duncan, takes the form of this hallucinatory dagger. While he claims he does not know if it is real ("I see thee still, in form as palpable / As this which now I draw"), the appearance of the dagger, "the handle toward my hand," signifies an external or internal temptation or force compelling him towards violence. The eagerness in "Come, let me clutch thee" suggests a yielding to this dark impulse, foreshadowing the imminent act of murder.

This is the consequences with meddling with dark powers and his sanity is going, showing the corrupting power of ambition combined with ignoring guilt.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this dramatic and unsettling scene to viscerally convey the psychological torment and moral crisis plaguing Macbeth. By presenting his internal struggle through this hallucination, Shakespeare allows the audience to witness the destructive power of ambition and guilt on Macbeth's psyche. This scene serves as a propaganda warning against regicide, illustrating the mental instability and moral decay that can result from such a heinous act. The ambiguity of the dagger – whether it is real or a figment of his imagination – highlights the corrupting power of ambition and guilt on human perception and will.

"Methought I heard a voice cry, 'Sleep no more! / Macbeth does murder sleep'—the innocent sleep,"

Macbeth has lost inner tranquility and peace following regicide.

Theme: Psychological Torment and Overwhelming Guilt Following Regicide: Mr Salles would highlight how this quote dramatically captures Macbeth's immediate and profound psychological distress after murdering Duncan. The hallucinated voice crying "Sleep no more!" symbolizes his loss of inner peace and tranquility, suggesting that the act of regicide has irrevocably damaged his psyche. The repetition of "Macbeth does murder sleep'—the innocent sleep," emphasizes his awareness that he has not only killed the King but has also destroyed something fundamental and pure (sleep being a metaphor for innocence and peace). The fragmented and exclamatory nature of the cry reflects his fractured conscience and overwhelming guilt.

He has destroyed sleep: a natural and restorative process, which being destroyed marks a sinful violation of natural order.

Theme: The Disruption of Natural Order and Divine Law: Mr Salles might analyse how this quote signifies the disruption of the natural order caused by Macbeth's sacrilegious act. In Jacobean society, sleep was seen as a natural and restorative process, a blessing. By "murdering sleep," Macbeth is not only suffering psychologically but is also violating a fundamental aspect of the natural and divine order, as Duncan was God's appointed king. This act has cosmic repercussions, suggesting a violation of a fundamental aspect of the natural order and potentially foreshadowing further chaos and instability in Scotland.

Didactic warning against regicide as guilt will consume and cast a deep and lasting damage on the sinners inner world and wider natural order.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare includes this powerful and symbolic line to underscore the immediate and devastating moral and psychological consequences of Macbeth's actions. By personifying sleep as "innocent" and having a voice declare its murder, Shakespeare vividly conveys the profound sense of guilt and spiritual unease that afflicts Macbeth. This serves as a didactic warning against regicide for the Jacobean audience, illustrating the deep and lasting damage it inflicts on the perpetrator's inner world and the wider natural order. The use of auditory hallucination emphasizes the intensity of Macbeth's mental anguish and foreshadows his further descent into madness.

"Will all great Neptune's ocean wash this blood / Clean from my hand?"

Macbeth understands the overwhelming impact of the guilt he experiences and

Theme: Overwhelming Guilt and the Inescapable Nature of Guilt: Mr Salles would emphasize how this rhetorical question reveals the immensity of Macbeth's guilt following the murder of Duncan. The imagery of "all great Neptune's ocean", the vast and powerful god of the sea, being insufficient to cleanse his "blood"-stained hands highlights the indelible mark of his crime on his conscience. The "blood" acts as a tangible symbol of his guilt and the violence he has committed, a stain that cannot be washed away by any external force. This suggests the profound psychological and spiritual consequences of his actions, implying that his guilt is an internal burden that no physical cleansing can alleviate.

The address to a Pagan not a Christian god, shows how he has sinned and could not even pronounce “amen”, Macbeth cannot find peace with the most powerful natural force suggests a very deep transgression against God.

Theme: The Clash Between Pagan and Christian Worldviews: Mr Salles might analyse the reference to Neptune, a figure from pagan mythology, in the context of a play with underlying Christian moral themes. While Macbeth invokes a pagan deity, the sentiment of unwashable blood could also be interpreted within a Christian framework as the stain of sin that requires spiritual cleansing through confession and repentance. Macbeth's inability to find solace even in the most powerful natural force suggests a deeper, spiritual corruption that pagan rituals cannot address, potentially highlighting the play's Christian context and the severity of his transgression against God's chosen ruler.

The magnitude of his crime and how it is unforgivable is highlighted, warning against regicide as spiritual and phycological torment will follow.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this powerful and evocative imagery to viscerally convey the overwhelming and inescapable nature of Macbeth's guilt. The hyperbole of Neptune's ocean emphasizes the magnitude of his crime and its lasting psychological impact. This serves as a stark warning against regicide for the Jacobean audience, illustrating the profound spiritual and psychological torment that afflicts those who violate the divine order and commit such a heinous act. The image of the bloodstained hand becomes a recurring motif in the play, symbolizing Macbeth's enduring guilt and descent into despair.

"I shame to wear a heart so white."

LM becomes more masculine, to achieve power.

Theme: Lady Macbeth's Rejection of Perceived Weakness and Embracing Masculinity: Mr Salles would analyse this quote as revealing Lady Macbeth's disdain for what she perceives as Macbeth's cowardice or lack of resolve following the murder (though contextually it could refer to an earlier hesitation). The "heart so white" is a metaphor for fear, purity (in a negative sense of lacking ruthlessness), and a perceived feminine weakness that she believes hinders their ambition. By stating "I shame to wear a heart so white", she is contrasting her own ruthlessness and determination with what she sees as his lack of "manliness" in completing the deed or facing the consequences. This reinforces the theme of gender role reversal in their relationship, where Lady Macbeth embodies traditionally "masculine" traits of aggression and ambition, while she sees Macbeth as possessing undesirable "feminine" qualities.

Moral inversion as LM sees white, purity as a weakness, cruelty is needed.

Theme: Symbolism of "White" and Contrasting Imagery: Mr Salles might explore the symbolism of the colour "white" in this context. While often associated with innocence and purity, here it is used negatively to represent a lack of courage and a moral squeamishness that Lady Macbeth finds contemptible. This contrasts with the earlier imagery of "blood" as a symbol of guilt and violence. Lady Macbeth's preference for a "darker" heart, capable of cruelty, further emphasizes her rejection of conventional morality and her embrace of evil in pursuit of power. This contrasting imagery highlights the moral inversion that has taken place within her as she seeks to achieve her ambitions.

LM is powerful and ruthless and a corrupting catalyst for Macbeth’s downfall.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this line to further develop Lady Macbeth's character as a powerful and ruthlessly ambitious woman who challenges the conventional gender roles of the Jacobean era. Her shaming of Macbeth's perceived weakness serves as a catalyst for his further descent into tyranny, as he seeks to prove his "manhood" through increasingly violent acts. This dynamic highlights the corrupting influence of ambition on their relationship and individual moral compasses, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked desire for power and the manipulation within relationships driven by such ambition.

"O, yet I do repent me of my fury, / That I did kill them."

Deception as people are not who they seem to be.

Theme: Deception and False Persona: Mr Salles would analyse this quote in the context of Macbeth's feigned remorse after killing the sleeping guards in Duncan's chamber. His declaration "O, yet I do repent me of my fury, / That I did kill them" is not genuine but rather a calculated performance intended to deflect suspicion from himself and appear loyal and grief-stricken at the discovery of the King's murder. This highlights the increasing need for deception and manipulation as Macbeth tries to conceal his crime and consolidate his power. The use of "fury" as the stated reason for killing the guards attempts to paint his actions as impulsive and driven by righteous anger at their supposed treachery, rather than a cold-blooded act to silence potential witnesses.

Corrupting influence of guilt and regicide cause him to descent into evil.

Theme: Descent into Tyranny and Justification of Violence: Mr Salles might explore how this act of hypocrisy marks a further stage in Macbeth's descent into tyranny. Having committed regicide, he now finds it necessary to commit further violence to secure his position, and he employs deceitful language to justify these actions. His feigned repentance is a cynical manipulation of the truth and demonstrates his growing ruthlessness and disregard for moral principles. The ease with which he lies and kills highlights the corrupting influence of his initial crime and the escalating cycle of violence that follows.

Ambition is corrupting

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this moment to expose Macbeth's hypocrisy and the moral decay that has followed his act of regicide. By showing his calculated deception, Shakespeare further alienates the audience from Macbeth and underscores the destructive nature of ambition that leads to such perfidy. This scene serves as a warning against the dangers of tyranny and the lengths to which those who seize power illegitimately will go to maintain their rule, reinforcing the importance of a just and divinely sanctioned monarchy for a Jacobean audience.

"Thou canst not say I did it: never shake / Thy gory locks at me!"

Macbeth is going mad due to his guilt, driving him mad.

Theme: Psychological Torment and Guilt Manifesting in Hallucinations: Mr Salles would highlight how this quote, spoken during the banquet scene upon seeing Banquo's ghost, reveals the severe psychological torment and overwhelming guilt that continue to plague Macbeth. Despite having orchestrated Banquo's murder, Macbeth's mind projects a hallucination of the ghost, which serves as a tangible manifestation of his guilty conscience. His frantic denial ("Thou canst not say I did it") and fearful command ("never shake / Thy gory locks at me!") demonstrate his inability to escape the psychological consequences of his actions, even in a public setting. This highlights the corrosive power of guilt and its capacity to disrupt reality for the afflicted individual.

Macbeth has upset the natural order, so suffers privately.

Theme: The Disruption of Social Order and the Fear of Retribution: Mr Salles might analyse how the appearance of Banquo's ghost at the royal banquet signifies a disruption of the natural and social order. Banquo, as a murdered guest whose presence should be honored, returning as a spectral figure suggests that Macbeth's crime has created an imbalance in the universe. Macbeth's terror also reflects a deep-seated fear of retribution, both earthly and supernatural, for his heinous deeds. The fact that only Macbeth can see the ghost further isolates him and underscores his deteriorating mental state, suggesting that his guilt is a private torment that alienates him from others.

Upsetting the natural order will haunt you and this scene is a outward expression of this.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this dramatic scene to viscerally portray the inescapable nature of guilt and the psychological consequences of Macbeth's tyranny. The hallucination of Banquo's ghost serves as a powerful theatrical device to externalize Macbeth's inner turmoil and make his guilt palpable to the audience. This scene functions as a moral commentary on the consequences of regicide and the violation of natural and divine law, suggesting that such acts lead to psychological breakdown and social disorder.

"I am in blood / Stepp'd in so far that, should I wade no more, / Returning were as tedious as go o'er."

He has passed the point of no return, his sins “will have blood” and he has to spill more blood to save himself.

Theme: The Irreversible Nature of Evil and the Descent into Violence: Mr Salles would analyse this quote as a pivotal moment where Macbeth acknowledges the irreversible nature of his descent into evil and violence. The metaphor of being "stepp'd in so far" in a river of "blood" suggests that he has become so deeply implicated in his criminal actions that turning back ("Returning were as tedious as go o'er") offers no easier path than continuing his violent trajectory. This signifies a point of no return, where the weight of his past deeds and the perceived necessity of further violence to maintain his power have trapped him in a cycle of crime. He has crossed a moral threshold, and the consequences of his initial ambition have led him to a state of despair and a grim acceptance of his violent path.

Deepening despair and he is trapped by his choices in this river and he cannot redeem himself or have peace.

Theme: The Psychological Impact of Guilt and the Erosion of Hope: Mr Salles might explore how this quote also reveals the psychological impact of Macbeth's guilt and the erosion of any remaining hope for redemption or peace. The weariness implied by "tedious" suggests a profound emotional and mental exhaustion resulting from his constant fear and the burden of his crimes. He no longer sees a way out of his predicament, and the prospect of continuing his reign of terror, though abhorrent, seems no more difficult than facing the consequences of his past actions. This reflects a deepening despair and a sense of being trapped by his own choices, highlighting the destructive psychological toll of unchecked ambition and guilt.

The consequences are tragic and you will continue killing becoming a monster and you are trapped, a slow death…

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this powerful metaphor to underscore the tragic consequences of Macbeth's initial transgression and the self-perpetuating nature of evil. By having Macbeth articulate his sense of being trapped, Shakespeare elicits a degree of pity for his character while simultaneously emphasizing the destructive power of his choices. This serves as a cautionary tale for the Jacobean audience about the seductive nature of ambition and the slippery slope that leads from a single act of evil to a life consumed by violence and despair.

"Out, damned spot! Out, I say! … Hell is murky."

This hallucination shows how her guilt is tearing her apart and her commands are useless, only underlining her fragmented mental state.

Theme: The Unendurable Burden of Guilt and the Descent into Madness: Mr Salles would highlight how this fragmented and desperate cry from Lady Macbeth during her sleepwalking scene vividly illustrates the unendurable burden of guilt that has driven her to the brink of madness. The "damned spot" she frantically tries to wash away is a hallucination of the blood on her hands, a persistent visual reminder of the regicide and the other murders she and Macbeth have committed. Her repeated command "Out, damned spot! Out, I say!" underscores her desperate but futile attempts to cleanse her conscience and escape the psychological torment of her guilt. The disjointed nature of her speech and actions reveals her fragmented mental state and her complete descent into psychological breakdown.

She is “damned” and will face consequences in hell.

Theme: The Spiritual Consequences of Regicide and the Fear of Eternal Damnation: Mr Salles might analyse the phrase "Hell is murky" as a significant insight into Lady Macbeth's spiritual state. "Murky" suggests darkness, obscurity, and a lack of clarity, perhaps reflecting her clouded conscience and her fear of the eternal consequences of her actions. In a Jacobean context, the idea of hell and divine judgment was very real, and this brief utterance hints at Lady Macbeth's subconscious awareness of the spiritual damnation that awaits her for her role in the sacrilegious act of regicide and the subsequent violence. The physical manifestation of her guilt (the hallucinated blood) is intertwined with a deeper fear of spiritual retribution.

The disruptive power of guilt is evident and shows how evil never works.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that this poignant and tragic scene serves to underscore the devastating psychological and spiritual consequences of guilt. By presenting Lady Macbeth, the once strong and ruthless instigator of the regicide, in a state of utter breakdown, Shakespeare highlights the destructive power of a guilty conscience, which proves to be more potent than any ambition or desire for power. This scene acts as a powerful moral commentary on the nature of evil and the inevitability of its repercussions, serving as a cautionary tale for the Jacobean audience about the sanctity of kingship and the divine order, suggesting that such transgressions lead to both earthly and eternal suffering.

"All the perfumes of Arabia will not sweeten this little hand."

This emphasises the stain on her conscience and the metaphorical stench is so bad that it cannot be removed, moral corruption that cannot be fixed.

Theme: The Profound and Ineradicable Nature of Guilt: Mr Salles would analyse this line, also from Lady Macbeth's sleepwalking scene, as a powerful expression of the overwhelming and ineradicable nature of her guilt. The hyperbole of "all the perfumes of Arabia", renowned for their exquisite and potent fragrances, being unable to "sweeten this little hand" emphasizes the magnitude of her crime and the indelible stain on her conscience. Like the blood she cannot wash away, the metaphorical stench of her guilt is so pervasive that no external means can mask or eliminate it. This highlights the internal and psychological burden of her actions, suggesting that guilt is not a physical blemish but a deep-seated moral corruption that cannot be easily dismissed.

She is queen and should have wealth and find pleasure in the world’s riches, however, her guilt destroys the pleasure of life.

Theme: The Futility of Material Possessions in the Face of Moral Corruption: Mr Salles might explore how this quote contrasts the sensory appeal of worldly riches and luxury with the profound emptiness and moral ugliness that now characterize Lady Macbeth's inner world. Despite achieving her ambition of becoming queen, the psychological cost has rendered all material pleasures meaningless. The "little hand" that once grasped for power is now a symbol of her guilt, and no amount of earthly indulgence can alleviate her suffering. This suggests a critique of the pursuit of power for its own sake and highlights the ultimate emptiness of worldly success when achieved through immoral means.

The inexorable and destructive nature of guilt, which will destroy, highlighting the cautionary tale and that peace and happiness never comes from sin.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this poignant and evocative line to further emphasize the destructive and inescapable nature of guilt. Lady Macbeth's realization that even the most potent sensory pleasures cannot mask her moral corruption underscores the profound psychological consequences of her actions. This serves as a stark moral warning for the Jacobean audience about the wages of sin and the enduring power of conscience, suggesting that true peace and happiness cannot be attained through evil deeds, regardless of the worldly gains they might bring.

"What's done cannot be undone."

This shows finality and her transgression to insanity: foreshadowing her suicide

Theme: The Irreversible Consequences of Action: Mr Salles would analyse this stark and simple statement as a reflection of Lady Macbeth's belated and painful recognition of the irreversible consequences of their actions. In contrast to her earlier dismissiveness of guilt, this line conveys a sense of finality and the impossibility of retracting their deeds, particularly the murder of Duncan. The weight of their crimes has finally broken through her initial denial, and she now understands the permanent nature of their transgression and its enduring impact on their lives and their realm. This realization contributes to her despair and eventual madness.

It shows the corrupting nature of guilt as it leads to greater despair and feeling of insignificance.

Theme: The Psychological Torment of Unatoned Guilt and the Descent into Despair: Mr Salles might explore how this quote underscores the psychological torment of living with unatoned guilt. Lady Macbeth's acceptance that "What's done cannot be undone" leads not to resolution but to a deeper despair as she is unable to find a way to reconcile with her actions or find peace of mind. This highlights the corrosive effect of guilt on the human psyche, leading to a sense of being trapped in a cycle of remorse and suffering from which there is no escape. The simplicity of the statement makes its impact all the more powerful, conveying the crushing weight of her understanding.

It shows the pivotal point in LM arc and is a warning to the audience about the gravity of their actions and the final insanity and death that awaits them…

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this line as a pivotal moment in Lady Macbeth's tragic arc, signifying her complete psychological breakdown and her acknowledgment of the permanent damage caused by their ambition. This serves as a solemn warning for the Jacobean audience about the gravity of their actions and the enduring consequences of moral transgression, particularly against the divinely ordained monarch. The line emphasizes the finality of death and the impossibility of reversing the past, reinforcing the tragic nature of the play and the ultimate price paid for their ambition.

"She should have died hereafter; / There would have been a time for such a word."

Macbeth has lost all human feeling in becoming a tyrant.

Theme: The Blunted Impact of Loss and the Disruption of Natural Order: Mr Salles would analyse this quote, spoken by Macbeth upon hearing of Lady Macbeth's death, as revealing his emotional detachment and the extent to which his constant exposure to violence and horror has desensitized him to loss. His almost clinical response ("She should have died hereafter; / There would have been a time for such a word") suggests that he views her death as an inconvenient occurrence rather than a deeply felt personal tragedy. The phrase "There would have been a time" implies a sense of life having become meaningless and monotonous, where even death loses its significance in the face of his overwhelming despair and the chaos he has wrought. This reflects the profound disruption of natural human emotions caused by his tyrannical reign and his immersion in bloodshed.

Macbeth has lost sanity and has fragmented thoughts as he perceives life to be meaningless.

Theme: The Meaninglessness of Life and the Erosion of Time: Mr Salles might explore how this quote conveys Macbeth's profound sense of the meaninglessness of life in the wake of his actions. The line suggests that life has become a mere sequence of events, devoid of emotional depth or significance. His focus on the timing of her death ("There would have been a time") rather than the emotional impact highlights a fragmented perception of reality and a sense that time itself has become a meaningless construct in his increasingly isolated and despairing existence. This reflects the psychological toll of his tyranny, which has stripped life of its value and purpose for him.

You will lose all essential human feeling, including happiness, leading to nihilism.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this seemingly cold and detached response to underscore the tragic consequences of Macbeth's ambition and the profound emotional and moral decay it has caused. By showing his inability to grieve his wife's death in a natural and heartfelt way, Shakespeare illustrates the extent to which his tyranny has alienated him from his own humanity. This serves as a stark warning to the Jacobean audience about the destructive power of unchecked ambition, which can lead to the erosion of essential human emotions and a profound sense of meaninglessness.

"Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player, / That struts and frets his hour upon the stage, / And then is heard no more: it is a tale / Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, / Signifying nothing."

Macbeth realised ambition was worthless leading to nihilism and despair.

Theme: The Ultimate Meaninglessness of Life and the Futility of Ambition: Mr Salles would analyse this famous soliloquy as Macbeth's profound realization of the ultimate meaninglessness of life and the futility of his ambition in the face of impending death and the loss of everything he has fought for. The metaphors of "a walking shadow" and "a poor player / That struts and frets his hour upon the stage, / And then is heard no more" emphasize the transient and insubstantial nature of human existence. The final image of "a tale / Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, / Signifying nothing" conveys a sense of utter nihilism and despair, suggesting that all his struggles for power have ultimately been pointless and devoid of any lasting significance. His ambition, once a driving force, is now seen as a meaningless and destructive illusion.

Macbeth is alone and without purpose, and his crimes bore no fruit.

Theme: The Tragic Isolation and Despair Resulting from Transgression: Mr Salles might explore how this speech reflects Macbeth's complete isolation and the profound despair that has resulted from his regicide and subsequent tyranny. Stripped of his wife, his friends, and any sense of security, he faces death with a bleak and hopeless outlook. His ambition, fueled by the witches' prophecies, has led him to a state where life itself seems empty and without purpose. This soliloquy underscores the tragic consequences of his moral transgressions, which have not brought him fulfillment but rather a profound sense of emptiness and the realization that his efforts have been ultimately meaningless.

Power gained by immoral ambition is an illusion and will lead to a sense of emptiness.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this powerful and iconic speech to deliver a final and devastating commentary on the destructive nature of unchecked ambition and the illusion of lasting power gained through immoral means. Macbeth's descent into nihilism serves as a stark warning to the Jacobean audience about the spiritual and psychological emptiness that awaits those who prioritize earthly power over moral integrity and divine law. The soliloquy reinforces the play's tragic message, emphasizing the ultimate futility of Macbeth's actions and the profound sense of loss and meaninglessness that accompanies a life lived in pursuit of evil.

"Such a one I am to fear"

Insecurity, so Macbeth needs to assert fear as a tyrant as his subjects are not bound to him by loyalty and respect but by fear.

Theme: The Tyranny and the Erosion of Respect Respect Due to Fear: Mr Salles would analyse this quote as Macbeth's arrogant assertion of his power and the fact that his tyrannical reign has made him a figure to be feared. However, the context of this quote (often spoken in response to news of forces gathering against him) also reveals an underlying insecurity and paranoia, as he feels the need to constantly remind himself and others of his power. While he demands fear, he has lost the genuine respect and loyalty that a just ruler commands. His statement highlights the nature of tyranny, where power is maintained through intimidation rather than through the consent and affection of the governed.

Suspicion and distrust from his guilt and threats both physical and mental.

Theme: Psychological Isolation and Paranoia Inherent in Tyranny: Mr Salles might explore how this quote reveals Macbeth's growing psychological isolation and paranoia. His reliance on fear to maintain control indicates a lack of genuine connection with his subjects and a constant awareness of the threats to his rule. He is surrounded by enemies, both internal and external, and his reign is characterized by suspicion and distrust. This reflects the psychological toll of his crimes, which have alienated him from those he once ruled and left him in a state of constant anxiety and the need for self-affirmation of his power, however precarious.

Tyranny will destroy you, you will fear as you rule is unstable because you lack justice and morality so people will oppose you.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this line to illustrate the corrupting influence of power and the psychological consequences of tyranny. Macbeth's reliance on fear highlights the instability of his rule and his awareness that his authority is not legitimate or secure. This serves as a cautionary portrayal of a ruler who has abandoned justice and morality in pursuit of power, demonstrating the isolation and insecurity that ultimately accompany such a path.

"My soul is too much charg'd / With blood of thine already."

There is a slither of morality in him and this shows his guilt is becoming too large for him to suppress, particularly towards Macduff.

Theme: The Burden of Guilt and the Psychological Toll of Regicide: Mr Salles would analyse this quote, spoken by Macbeth to Macduff before their final duel, as revealing the immense burden of guilt that Macbeth carries, specifically for the murder of Macduff's family. The phrase "too much charg'd / With blood of thine already" indicates a recognition of the extent of his crimes and the specific weight of the innocent blood he has spilled. Despite his desperation to survive, this line hints at a lingering awareness of his moral transgressions and the psychological toll they have taken on him. It suggests a potential, albeit late, acknowledgment of the wrong he has done to Macduff in particular.

Corrosive act of violence as it has eroded his humanity, however, a faint glimmer is shown to show the hero Macbeth once was, but the following desperation and violence destroys this.

Theme: A Fleeting Moment of Humanity and the Erosion of Bloodlust: Mr Salles might explore whether this line represents a fleeting moment of humanity in Macbeth, where the constant bloodshed has finally begun to weigh heavily on his conscience. While he is still prepared to fight, his acknowledgement of the "blood of thine already" suggests a weariness with violence and perhaps a faint glimmer of the man he once was, before ambition consumed him. However, this moment is fleeting, as his desperation for survival quickly overrides any true remorse. It highlights the corrosive effect of violence on the human spirit, leaving even the perpetrator emotionally scarred.

This is the human cost of ambition, tyranny and bloodlust. The contrast to who Macbeth once was emphasises this.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare includes this line to underscore the comprehensive tragedy of Macbeth's downfall. Even in his final moments, when facing the consequences of his actions, the weight of his guilt is evident. This serves as a reminder of the human cost of his ambition and tyranny, not only for his victims but also for his own soul.

"Thou losest labour"

This ironically underscores the power of fate, Young Siward could not kill him so why could Macduff, until the prophecy is seen as misguiding.

Theme: The Futility of Resistance Against Fate (as Macbeth Perceives It): Mr Salles would analyse this quote as reflecting Macbeth's misguided belief in the inevitability of the witches' prophecies and his consequent dismissal of any opposition. Having misinterpreted the apparitions' pronouncements, particularly the one about being unharmed until Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane and by anyone not born of woman, Macbeth believes himself to be invincible. Therefore, he tells those who oppose him that their efforts are pointless because fate is on his side. This highlights his tragic flaw of overconfidence and his reliance on ambiguous and ultimately deceptive prophecies.

Even seeing his end, he is stubborn in face of the 10,000 of Malcolm’s men. He will go down like like Macdonwald at the start of the play.

Theme: The Last Stand of a Defiant Tyrant: Mr Salles might explore how this quote also reveals the stubborn defiance of a tyrant facing his inevitable downfall. Even as forces gather against him and his kingdom crumbles, Macbeth clings to a false sense of security and refuses to surrender. His statement can be seen as a desperate attempt to maintain his authority and demoralize his enemies, even though he likely harbors a growing sense of dread beneath his bravado. It underscores his continued adherence to the illusion of power despite the clear signs of his impending doom.

This warns against hubris and reliance on the supernatural as Macbeth fails to grasp the reality of the situation and becomes unable to save himself or his kingdom.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare includes this line to highlight Macbeth's tragic misunderstanding of the witches' prophecies and the overconfidence that ultimately leads to his demise. His misplaced faith in fate blinds him to the reality of his situation and prevents him from taking necessary actions to save himself or his kingdom. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of hubris and the folly of relying on ambiguous or supernatural pronouncements rather than sound judgment and moral principles. The dramatic irony of this statement, given the impending fulfillment of the prophecies in ways Macbeth does not anticipate, adds to the tragedy.

"Macduff was from his mother's womb / Untimely ripp'd."

This destroys Macbeth’s sense of security and underlines how manipulative the supernatural is.

Theme: The Deceptive Nature of Prophecy and the Limits of Macbeth's Understanding: Mr Salles would analyse this revelation as the crucial turning point that shatters Macbeth's false sense of security based on the witches' prophecy that no man born of woman could harm him. Macduff's explanation that he "was from his mother's womb / Untimely ripp'd" (a Caesarean section) reveals the literal and unexpected way in which the prophecy is fulfilled, highlighting Macbeth's flawed interpretation and his over-reliance on the supernatural. This underscores the ambiguous and often deceptive nature of prophecies, particularly when taken at face value without deeper understanding. Macbeth's shock and realization at this moment mark the beginning of his final downfall.

The disruption of the natural order in Macduff’s birth could be suggestive that those who violate the order will face consequences, often in unnatural ways.

Theme: The Disruption of Natural Order and the Just Consequences of Tyranny: Mr Salles might explore how Macduff's unnatural birth can be seen as a further disruption of the natural order within the play, mirroring the initial regicide. However, in this instance, it serves as the instrument of divine justice, as the tyrant Macbeth, who disrupted the natural and political order, is ultimately defeated by a man who was not "born" in the conventional sense. This reinforces the play's moral arc, suggesting that those who violate the natural order will eventually face consequences, often in unexpected ways.

This is the downfall of Macbeth and the fulfillment of this prophecy anchors the Witches as more of Greek Fates, who spin a riddle for the hero to only understand when it is too late…

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare uses this dramatic revelation to bring about the long-awaited downfall of Macbeth and to demonstrate the ultimate triumph of good over evil. The unexpected fulfillment of the prophecy serves as a powerful plot twist and underscores the limitations of human understanding when dealing with supernatural forces. For the Jacobean audience, this would likely reinforce the idea that evil, though it may seem powerful, will eventually be overthrown by righteous forces, and that divine justice, however mysterious its workings, will ultimately prevail, restoring order to the realm.

"Of this dead butcher, and his fiend-like queen"

Dead butcher emphasises the descent of Macbeth down the Great Chain of Being and how he has lost any heroic qualities.

LM is tied to the devil being “fiend-like” and royal title is used ironically as Shakespeare highlights how getting the title itself was a punishment for LM as she could not enjoy its fruit, being an unappointed monarch.

Theme: Final Judgment on Tyranny and Moral Degradation: Mr Salles would analyse this final assessment of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth as a damning indictment of their tyrannical reign and their profound moral degradation. The term "dead butcher" emphasizes Macbeth's descent into indiscriminate violence and his loss of any heroic qualities he once possessed. He is reduced to a ruthless killer, responsible for the deaths of countless innocent people. The description of Lady Macbeth as his "fiend-like queen" highlights her malevolent influence and her willing participation in their wicked deeds, suggesting a deep moral corruption in both of them. This final judgment, delivered by Malcolm, signifies the restoration of order and the clear moral stance of the play against tyranny and regicide.

Theme: Restoration of Order and the Categorization of Evil: Mr Salles might explore how this concluding statement serves to categorize Macbeth and Lady Macbeth as unequivocally evil and to mark the end of their disruptive influence on Scotland. By labeling Macbeth a "butcher" and Lady Macbeth "fiend-like", Malcolm provides a clear moral judgment that aligns with the play's broader themes of good versus evil and the importance of a just and divinely ordained ruler. This categorization helps to restore a sense of moral order at the end of the play, assuring the audience that justice has been served and that the forces of chaos have been vanquished.

The tragic ending underscores the cautionary tale of Macbeth and provides a sense of closure, and to the Jacobean audience would be a reaffirmation of the divine right of Kings.

Shakespeare's Purpose: Mr Salles would argue that Shakespeare concludes the play with this definitive judgment to reinforce the moral lessons of the tragedy and to provide a sense of closure for the audience. The strong language used to describe Macbeth and Lady Macbeth serves as a final cautionary tale about the destructive consequences of ambition, regicide, and the abuse of power. For the Jacobean audience, this ending would likely be seen as a reaffirmation of the importance of legitimate rule and the divine right of kings, with