Macbeth - Violence Quotes ANALYSED Flashcards
“disdaining fortune…smok’d with bloody execution”
Macbeth (Act 1)
SMOK’D CONNOTATIONS: smok’d could connote to heat and hell foreshadowing his malevolent nature he will later face moral and psychological ramifications (unwelcome consequences) for
- The phrase “disdaining fortune” shows a disregard for his fate and his attempt to manipulate the natural order. This later becomes evident in his disruption of the Divine right of kings
SYNTAX: although Macbeth receives commendation for his stoic bravery as a soldier in ACT 1, the syntax implies a symbiotic (close and interactive) relationship between his downfall and his intrinsic proclivity (a tendency to do something) for violence.
- The positioning of “fortune” preceding (coming before) “execution” foreshadows Macbeth’s acquisition of an illegitimate title and wealth through violent means, but how this will also lead to his eventual “execution”
“I am in blood/ Stepped in so far that should i wade no more, returning were as tedious”
Macbeth (Act 3)
MOTIF OF BLOOD: previously the “blood” (which is a motif (recurring symbol) for the consequences of murder) was merely on his hands yet now it has enrobed his entire body, and by extension his entire sense of being
- Macbeth’s response to hear and guilt has transitioned from being horrified to indulging further in heinous acts, murder now becomes his means of self-preservation
“WADE” HAS BIBLICAL ALLUSIONS: Macbeth’s metaphorical wading in blood exemplifies how he acknowledges his conscience is permanently stained with guilt as a result of his violence. This is similar to Cain in the Book of Genesis who commits the first murder in the bible, his irreversible act of murder of his brother Abel results in his punishment by God.
“Dash’d the brains out”
Lady Macbeth (Act 1)
PLOSIVE ON “DASH’D”: the plosive sound creates a brutal sound mirroring her brutal rejection of motherly instincts. her proclivity (tendency) for violence takes precedence over motherhood, leading to her unapologetic willingness to extinguish human life in the relentless pursuit of unchecked violence.
JUXTAPOSITION: The deliberate contrast between the forceful verb “dash’s” and the delicate nature of “brains” serves as a poignant symbol reflecting LM’s character. Despite her seemingly fragile exterior she harbours a strong desire to instigate violence and chaos.
- Notable her choice of targeting the vulnerable “brains” of infants signifies a recognition of both the paramount importance and extreme fragility of human existence. Yet this is IRONIC as the very organ she seeks to disrupt in her unborn child - the seat of morality and reason- becomes the locus (particular place something occurs) of her own downfall (when she goes completely insane with guilt)
[enters with a taper]
stage directions (Act 5)
SYMBOLISM OF [TAPER]: as a [taper] provides light, this emblematic of how Lady Macbeth is seeking light, hope and solace in her eternal mental darkness
- In christian symbolism, light represents hope and divine guidance. Thus her [entering] with it can be seen as a desperate grasping for solace (comfort) and perhaps even a subconscious plea for God’s redemption from the sins that torment her
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: her need for light is he antithesis to her earlier presentation in act 1 where she calls upon the night wanting darkness to help fuel her violent and malevolent plans: “come thick night”
- the motif of darkness and light reinforces how Lady Macbeth’s depraved and dark wants for violence consequently cause her desperations to see the light and seek redemption
“I have no words; my voice is my sword”
Macduff (act 5)
VIOLENT METAPHOR: in employing a violent metaphor, Macduff contends that the restoration of Scotland’s Natural order necessitates physical violence - his ambition is to rightfully restore Scotland from Macbeth’s violation of kingship. Thus, the initial upheaval brought about by Macbeth’s violent tyrannical means, mandates a similar force to rectify the natural order of the divine right of kings that has been disrupted
Macduff is the archetype (perfect example) of the avenging hero , motivated by revenge. Despite his personal motivations rooted in revenge, the nobility of his intentions shines through as he wants to eradicate the chaos brought about from Macbeth’s immoral kingship
His ambitious pursuit of dismantling Macbeth single-handedly to restore order is materialising into a reality
SHORT SENTENCE: The short sentence reflects the short amount of time that Scotland will have to continue to suffer - by slewing Macbeth Scotland can be rightly governed and flourish under divine ordain.
“bleed, bleed, poor country”
Macduff (act 4)
PERSONIFICATION: Macduff laments (grieves) Scotland, personifying the nation to underscore his profound emotional bond but also reflects the persuasive (quickly spreading) sense of loss and despair that permeates Scotland
- Macduff’s sorrow, then becomes emblematic (symbolic) of the collective grief felt by the nation, further highlighting the immense political upheaval and chaos that has befallen Scotland due the Macbeth’s tyranny and violence.
REPETITION: the recurrent motif of “bleed” highlights Macduff’s despair about Scotland’s progressive demise, effectively encapsulating Macbeth’s misanthropic (disliking of others) disposition.
- Macduff’s patriotism emphasises Macbeth’s ruthlessness indifference to dismantling Scotland but also serves as a compelling juxtaposition to the inherent nobility expected of a rightful king
