Appearence vs Reality Flashcards
Why does Shakespeare use illusions in Macbeth?
Shakespeare uses illusions in the play to try and allude to a larger truth and a bigger message.
How does Shakespeare question God? ‘‘A—- ar– br— s—-, though t— br—– fe–’’
‘Angels are bright still, though the brightest fell’
Shakespeare is almost questioning God here because even God was able to fool himself that Lucifer was a still the ‘brightest’ angel until the very moment when he chose to behave evilly and rebelled against God.
Perhaps he is saying God should’ve been able to see this coming, but he, like Duncan, fooled himself into thinking he’s wise enough to see the world as it is.
How does Shakespeare’s religious links engage the audience?
This also links to the political situation at the time, a time full of intrigue around Catholicism.
Any association with Catholicism would link a person to a future plot against the King, the idea of traitors being everywhere is the uppermost concern, links to ‘False face must hide what the false heart doth know’ and ‘there’s no art to find the mind’s construction in the face’.
The audience would be completely engaged in this, as it is at the heart of politics at the time and Shakespeare is specifically writing for the political audience, full of nobility.
How and why does Shakespeare win King James favour?
‘Look like the innocent flower, but be the serpent under it’. Direct allusion to the medal King James was awarded in celebration of surviving the 1605 Gunpowder Plot, which had a serpent (representing the plotters) with flowers around it (representing the innocence of the nobles).
It’s an obvious form of flattery, and a message of loyalty in an attempt to avoid suspicious. Shakespeare grew up with Christopher Marlowe, who was murdered for being an atheist in 1593. As a result of this, it’s likely Shakespeare felt vulnerable to accusation and suspicion so went above and beyond to ensure he had the King’s favour.
