Macbeth-The Theme Of Guilt Flashcards
(13 cards)
How is guilt presented in Macbeth?
-Guilt is psychological torment that drives the characters to madness and despair.
Who says the quote “Sleep no more”?
-Macbeth after murdering Duncan, He believes he has murdered sleep itself, signifying the loss of peace of mind and innocence.
-Act 2
How is language used in the quote “Sleep no more”?
-Symbolism as sleep represents peace and innocence.
-Imperative command “Sleep no more” indicates a curse upon himself.
What is an analysis of the quote “Sleep no more”?
-It highlights Macbeth’s immediate guilt and the psychological consequences of his actions.
-Sleep is a symbol of peace and a clear conscience, all of which Macbeth has forfeited.
-Guilt is preventing him from resting, both physically and mentally.
Who says the quote “Will all great Neptune’s ocean wash this blood/clean from my hand?”
-Macbeth after killing Duncan while looking at his blood-stained hands.
-Act 2
How is language used in the quote “Will all great Neptune’s ocean wash this blood/clean from my hand?”
-Rhetorical question shows Macbeth’s desperation and doubt.
-Hyperbole of “All great Neptune’s ocean” exaggerates the amount of blood and it’s impossibility of cleansing his guilt, and shows the overwhelming nature of his guilt.
-Imagery of blood-stained hands is a powerful symbol of guilt.
What is an analysis of the quote “Will all great Neptune’s ocean wash this blood/clean from my hand?”
-Macbeth questions whether anything can cleanse him of the guilt and sin he carries.
-Guilt-The impossibility of washing away the blood mirrors the impossibility of escaping his guilt.
Who says the quote “Wake up Duncan with your knocking!/I wish you could!”
-Macbeth says this after they discover Duncan is dead.
-Act 2
How is language used in the quote “Wake up Duncan with your knocking!/I wish you could!”
-Irony as Macbeth is the one who killed Duncan.
-Exclamation marks emphasise his emotional turmoil and underlying guilt.
What is an analysis of the quote “Wake up Duncan with your knocking!/I wish you could!”
-Quote reveals Macbeth’s regret and guilt as he wishes he could undo his actions.
-Although spoken where Macbeth is trying to appear shocked and innocent, his wish that Duncan could be awakened reveals his regret and the burden of his actions.
Who says the quote “Out, damned spot! Out, i say!”
-Lady Macbeth says this while sleepwalking, consumed by guilt over the murders she and Macbeth have committed.
-Act 5
How is language used in the quote the quote “Out, damned spot! Out, i say!”
-Symbolism of “Spot” as it represents the indelible stain of guilt.
-Repetition of the command “Out” shows her desperation and mental breakdown.
-Imagery of trying to wash away a spot reinforces the theme of guilt and the futility of trying to erase one’s actions.
What is an analysis of the quote “Out, damned spot! Out, i say!”
-Guilt has driven her to madness, shows the psychological destruction caused by unchecked guilt.
