Guilt (in Macbeth) Flashcards
How does Macbeth first show signs of guilt after killing King Duncan?
Macbeth is immediately disturbed, saying he hears voices crying, “Macbeth does murder sleep!” (Act 2, Scene 2). He also refuses to return to Duncan’s chamber to place the daggers, showing his deep remorse and fear.
How does Lady Macbeth’s attitude toward guilt change throughout the play?
Initially, she dismisses guilt, telling Macbeth “A little water clears us of this deed.” (Act 2, Scene 2). However, guilt later consumes her, leading to sleepwalking and compulsively washing her hands, as she imagines bloodstains that won’t wash away (Act 5, Scene 1).
What symbol does Shakespeare use to represent guilt in Macbeth?
Blood is a key symbol of guilt. Macbeth fears that “Will all great Neptune’s ocean wash this blood clean from my hand?” (Act 2, Scene 2), while Lady Macbeth imagines permanent bloodstains on her hands in her mad scene.
How does Banquo’s ghost represent Macbeth’s guilt?
After having Banquo murdered, Macbeth hallucinates his ghost at a banquet (Act 3, Scene 4), showing that his guilt is haunting him. Unlike Duncan’s murder, which he regrets, Macbeth now struggles to suppress his guilt and paranoia.
What does Lady Macbeth’s death reveal about guilt in the play?
Lady Macbeth’s descent into madness and suicide show the destructive power of guilt. Unlike Macbeth, who becomes numb to guilt, she is unable to escape it, ultimately leading to her tragic end.
