Macbeth - appearance vs reality

Question 1

1st paragraph - the witches

Answer 1

The theme of appearance vs reality is introduced through the witches, who chant the paradox “fair is foul and foul is fair”. It sets the tone for the entire play suggesting that things are not what they seem and that evil can hide behind a fair appearance. The witches themselves are mysterious and manipulative figures, using vague and cryptic language to influence Macbeth while hiding their true intentions of wreaking havoc. Shakespeare aimed to warn audiences of the disruption that the witches bring into society.

Question 2

2nd paragraph - Macbeth

Answer 2

Macbeth is a prime example of the theme of appearance vs reality as he masks his evil intentions behind a face of nobleness. The praise, “O valiant cousin, worthy gentleman” reveals how Macbeth righteously fought to protect his king and country. His heroism and moral integrity is emphasised as King Duncan considers him as family, therefore placing his trust in him. As his ambition is ignited by the witches, he adopts a false appearance of loyalty to Duncan while secretly plotting his murder. “Stars hide your fire, let not light see my black and deep desires” is an important metaphor to illustrate his deception because he acknowledges the malevolence associated with these thoughts yet attempts to hide them so he can maintain a façade of righteousness towards Duncan.

Question 3

3rd paragraph - Lady Macbeth

Answer 3

Another key example is Lady Macbeth, whose ruthless ambition is immediately sparked when she hears of the witches’ ambiguous prophecies. She urges Macbeth to “look like the innocent flower but be the serpent under’t”, advising him to appear harmless while hiding his deadly intentions. Her ability to mask reality with false appearances allows them to commit the regicide but it ultimately leads to guilt and madness.

Question 4

Conclusion

Answer 4

Through the central theme of appearance vs reality, Shakespeare has successfully illustrated to audiences – specifically Jacobean audiences – to not trust appearances and that deception ultimately leads to destruction.