Motif Of Blood

Question 1

What is blood associated with at the start of the play

Answer 1

Blood is associated with honor and bravery as Macbeth is praised for his valor in battle where he spills the blood of his enemies for king Duncan/ Scotland

Question 2

‘Fixed his head upon our battlements’

Answer 2

Conveys the violent nature of conflict as the victim is dehumanized in the public display of his decapitation and this is ironic as Macbeth’s fate is likely similar. The violence of Macbeth at the start signifies loyalty however as the play unfolds, Macbeths capacity to kill becomes dangerous.

Question 3

What is blood associated with as the play progresses

Answer 3

Blood becomes a symbol of guilt

Question 4

‘Will all great Neptune’s ocean wash this blood clean from my hand’

Answer 4

Establishes blood as a permanent stain which demonstrates the psychological impact on Macbeth

Question 5

What is blood associated with by the end of the play

Answer 5

By the end of the play blood signifies the cycle of violence as Macbeth tyranny leads to more bloodshed. The cycle is completed when macduff beheads Macbeth.

Question 6

What does the final image of blood signify

Answer 6

Signifies restoration of justice but also underscored the tragic cost of ambition

Question 7

‘Dead butcher’

Answer 7

Signifies the final judgment of Macbeth as he is stripped of any remaining heroic qualities