Macbeth Quotes

Fair is foul, and foul is fair. (Act 1, Scene 1)

Word choice: The paradox "fair" and "foul" shows opposites becoming confused.

Meaning: Good can appear evil, and evil can appear good.

Author message: Shakespeare introduces the theme of appearance vs reality and warns that people cannot always trust what they see.

So foul and fair a day I have not seen. (Act 1, Scene 2)

Word choice: Macbeth repeats the witches' words "foul" and "fair".

Meaning: This immediately links Macbeth with the supernatural before he even meets the witches.

Author message: Shakespeare suggests Macbeth's fate is already becoming connected to evil and deception.

All hail, Macbeth, that shalt be king hereafter! (Act 1, Scene 3)

Word choice: The word verb "shalt" makes the prophecy sound certain.

Meaning: The witches awaken Macbeth's ambition and begin his internal conflict.

Author message: Shakespeare shows how ambition, once planted, can lead to tragic consequences.

"Stars, hide your fires; Let not light see my black and deep desires." (Act 1, Scene 4)

Word choice: "black" suggests evil, darkness and immoral intentions, while "light" represents goodness and truth.

Meaning: Macbeth wants to hide his growing desire to become king. Significance: Shows that Macbeth is already beginning to consider evil actions to achieve his ambition, even before Lady Macbeth encourages him.

Author message: Shakespeare shows how unchecked ambition can corrupt a person's morality and make them hide their true intentions.