Analysis Act 1 Scene 5 Macbeth
Analysis Act 1 Scene 5 Macbeth
Act 1 Scene 5 is an incredibly important part of Shakespeare’s infamous play Macbeth, and begins to establish the main themes of ambition, violence and the supernatural. Firstly, it introduces the strong willed and influential character of Lady Macbeth, and it also establishes the close and interesting relationship between Macbeth and his wife. Super natural forces are re-introduced and the association of masculinity and violence is evident. Furthermore, Shakespeare reveals a private and surprisingly softer side to Macbeth, which contrasts with the courageous, bloodthirsty and fierce character the audience were originally shown.
The scene opens with Lady Macbeth reading out a letter from Macbeth informing her on the witches prophecies. Immediately, it is suggested that Macbeth and his wife have an intimate and trustworthy relationship. Even though Macbeth asked Banquo to tell no one of their meeting with the witches, showing Macbeth is dubious and secretive, he still writes to lady Macbeth, thus showing their open relationship . Macbeth addresses Lady Macbeth as “…My dearest partner of greatness...” and “…my dearest love…”. The use of the possessive “my” emphasises Macbeths adoration and devotion to his wife. In addition, “partner” implies equality and fellowship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, and is also ironic as she will later become his partner in crime. Lady Macbeth simultaneously addresses Macbeth with affection, for example “ Great Glamis! Worthy Cawdor!”. The complimentary adjectives “great” and “worthy” show her anticipation that he will be King. Although Lady Macbeth is clearly overjoyed to here about the prophecies, she is immediately deterred by the impractical humanitarian and tender side of her husband Macbeth, which could lead to their failure- “…yet I do fear thy nature: it is too full o’th’ milk of human kindness…”. Lady Macbeths predication of Macbeths guilty conscience shows her familiarity and closeness
Act 1 Scene 5 is an incredibly important part of Shakespeare’s infamous play Macbeth, and begins to establish the main themes of ambition, violence and the supernatural. Firstly, it introduces the strong willed and influential character of Lady Macbeth, and it also establishes the close and interesting relationship between Macbeth and his wife. Super natural forces are re-introduced and the association of masculinity and violence is evident. Furthermore, Shakespeare reveals a private and surprisingly softer side to Macbeth, which contrasts with the courageous, bloodthirsty and fierce character the audience were originally shown.
The scene opens with Lady Macbeth reading out a letter from Macbeth informing her on the witches prophecies. Immediately, it is suggested that Macbeth and his wife have an intimate and trustworthy relationship. Even though Macbeth asked Banquo to tell no one of their meeting with the witches, showing Macbeth is dubious and secretive, he still writes to lady Macbeth, thus showing their open relationship . Macbeth addresses Lady Macbeth as “…My dearest partner of greatness...” and “…my dearest love…”. The use of the possessive “my” emphasises Macbeths adoration and devotion to his wife. In addition, “partner” implies equality and fellowship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, and is also ironic as she will later become his partner in crime. Lady Macbeth simultaneously addresses Macbeth with affection, for example “ Great Glamis! Worthy Cawdor!”. The complimentary adjectives “great” and “worthy” show her anticipation that he will be King. Although Lady Macbeth is clearly overjoyed to here about the prophecies, she is immediately deterred by the impractical humanitarian and tender side of her husband Macbeth, which could lead to their failure- “…yet I do fear thy nature: it is too full o’th’ milk of human kindness…”. Lady Macbeths predication of Macbeths guilty conscience shows her familiarity and closeness