FIRST WITCH
“Thrice the brinded cat hath mewed.”
- Meaning: The witch hears a cat meowing three times. The “brinded cat” (brindled or striped) is often associated with the supernatural.
- Analysis: The number three is significant in witchcraft and superstition. The witches frequently use this number, reinforcing their mystical power. The cat, a familiar of witches, symbolizes dark magic.
SECOND WITCH
“Thrice, and once the hedge-pig whined.”
- Meaning: The second witch notes that a hedgehog has also cried out once.
- Analysis: Hedgehogs were linked to witchcraft in Elizabethan superstition. The combination of the two animals’ cries signals the witches that it is time to cast their spell.
THIRD WITCH
“Harpier cries ‘Tis time, ’tis time!’”
- Meaning: A spirit, likely a demon or a familiar (Harpier), calls out that it is time to begin their ritual.
- Analysis: The repetition of “’Tis time” creates an eerie and urgent tone. It suggests that supernatural forces are directing the witches’ actions.
FIRST WITCH
“Round about the cauldron go; In the poisoned entrails throw.”
- Meaning: The witches begin to move around their cauldron, adding ingredients for their spell. The “poisoned entrails” (guts of an animal that has been poisoned) are the first item.
- Analysis: The imagery of “poisoned entrails” reinforces the theme of corruption and unnatural interference. The use of imperatives (“go,” “throw”) makes their speech sound commanding and ritualistic.
“Toad, that under cold stone Days and nights has thirty-one Sweltered venom sleeping got, Boil thou first i’ th’ charmèd pot.”
- Meaning: They add a toad that has been living under a cold stone for thirty-one days, accumulating poison in its body.
- Analysis: The toad, traditionally linked to poison and black magic, represents death and decay. The phrase “Sweltered venom” suggests something brewing and festering, aligning with the theme of unnatural disturbance. The “charmèd pot” is a direct reference to the power of their magic.
ALL WITCHES
“Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn, and cauldron bubble.”
- Meaning: They chant their famous spell, reinforcing their magical power. “Double” suggests increasing the power of their spell, while “toil and trouble” references the effort and chaos their magic will cause.
- Analysis: The repetition creates a spell-like rhythm, making the lines more hypnotic. The internal rhyme (“trouble” and “bubble”) enhances the chant’s incantatory effect. The imagery of fire and bubbling liquid heightens the sinister atmosphere.
SECOND WITCH
“Fillet of a fenny snake In the cauldron boil and bake.”
- Meaning: A slice of a swamp snake is added to the cauldron to enhance the spell’s potency.
- Analysis: The swamp (“fenny”) snake represents danger and deceit, linking to the theme of treachery in Macbeth. The verbs “boil and bake” emphasize the destructive nature of their magic.
“Eye of newt and toe of frog, Wool of bat and tongue of dog,”
- Meaning: More grotesque ingredients are listed: the eye of a newt, a frog’s toe, bat fur, and a dog’s tongue.
- Analysis: These strange, unsettling ingredients emphasize the witches’ connection to dark magic. The list creates a sensory overload, evoking disgust and fear. The use of alliteration (“toe of frog,” “tongue of dog”) makes the spell sound rhythmic and almost hypnotic.
“Adder’s fork and blindworm’s sting,”
- Meaning: A viper’s forked tongue and the sting of a blindworm (a small, legless lizard) are added.
- Analysis: Snakes are symbols of deceit and danger, reinforcing the theme of treachery. The idea of using body parts from poisonous creatures suggests the spell is meant to cause harm. The mention of blindness could symbolize ignorance or deception, tying back to Macbeth’s misguided trust in the witches.
FIRST WITCH
“Lizard’s leg and howlet’s wing, For a charm of powerful trouble, Like a hell-broth boil and bubble.”
- Meaning: The witches continue adding grotesque ingredients to their potion, including a lizard’s leg and an owl’s wing. They claim the spell will cause great trouble and compare it to a boiling “hell-broth.”
- Analysis:
- Imagery: The mention of lizard’s legs and owl’s wings evokes eerie, unnatural visuals. Owls are often associated with death and bad omens.
- Simile: “Like a hell-broth” reinforces the demonic nature of their magic, making it seem deadly and chaotic.
- Theme: The supernatural—these ingredients reflect the witches’ dark power, emphasizing the unnatural elements in Macbeth.
ALL WITCHES
“Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn, and cauldron bubble.”
- Meaning: This refrain repeats the incantation, reinforcing their spell.
- Analysis:
- Repetition: The phrase “Double, double” enhances the rhythmic, hypnotic nature of their chant.
- Alliteration: “Toil and trouble” creates a musical quality, making the spell more memorable and ominous.
- Theme: Fate vs. free will—the witches’ spell suggests they are manipulating Macbeth’s future.
THIRD WITCH
“Scale of dragon, tooth of wolf, Witch’s mummy, maw and gulf Of the ravined salt-sea shark,”
- Meaning: More dark ingredients are added: dragon scales, a wolf’s tooth, a dead witch’s mummified remains, and the stomach of a shark that has devoured its prey.
- Analysis:
- Symbolism:
- Dragon scale → mythical and powerful.
- Wolf’s tooth → associated with viciousness and predatory nature, mirroring Macbeth’s descent into ruthless ambition.
- Witch’s mummy → suggests ancient dark magic.
- Shark’s stomach → symbolizes uncontrollable hunger and destruction, much like Macbeth’s ambition.
- Theme: Corruption—these deadly ingredients reinforce the idea of moral decay and chaos.
- Symbolism:
“Root of hemlock digged i’ th’ dark, Liver of blaspheming Jew,”
- Meaning: Hemlock, a highly poisonous plant, is added, along with the liver of someone who has spoken against religion.
- Analysis:
- Hemlock: Poison often symbolizes treachery and death. It foreshadows the deaths caused by Macbeth’s actions.
- Theme: Unnatural interference—the witches create a potion that alters reality, just as their words manipulate Macbeth’s choices.
“Gall of goat and slips of yew Slivered in the moon’s eclipse,”
- Meaning: Goat’s bile and yew (a tree associated with death) are added, cut during a lunar eclipse.
- Analysis:
- Symbolism:
- Yew trees are linked to death and funerals.
- The “moon’s eclipse” represents darkness overcoming light, mirroring Macbeth’s moral downfall.
- Theme: Fate and darkness—unnatural events (eclipses, supernatural forces) reflect the disturbance in the natural order.
- Symbolism:
“Nose of Turk and Tartar’s lips, Finger of birth-strangled babe Ditch-delivered by a drab,”
- Meaning: The witches use body parts of foreign enemies and a murdered infant born to a prostitute.
- Analysis:
- Grotesque imagery: These ingredients reinforce the witches’ inhuman cruelty.
- Symbolism:
- “Birth-strangled babe” → innocence destroyed, reflecting how Macbeth kills innocence (e.g., Banquo, Macduff’s family).
- “Ditch-delivered” suggests neglect and abandonment, much like Macbeth’s loss of morality.
- Theme: Violence and innocence—this foreshadows the murder of Macduff’s children and how Macbeth destroys purity.
“Make the gruel thick and slab. Add thereto a tiger’s chaudron For th’ ingredience of our cauldron.”
- Meaning: The potion thickens as they add a tiger’s entrails.
- Analysis:
- Symbolism:
- Tigers are fierce and dangerous, much like Macbeth’s growing aggression.
- Theme: Unnatural power—the cauldron represents the manipulation of reality, just as Macbeth is manipulated by the witches.
- Symbolism:
ALL WITCHES
“Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn, and cauldron bubble.”
- Meaning: Again, they chant their spell, strengthening its power.
- Analysis:
- Repetition continues the sinister tone.
- Theme: Chaos and destruction—each repetition marks a growing disturbance in the natural order.
SECOND WITCH
“Cool it with a baboon’s blood. Then the charm is firm and good.”
- Meaning: They finalize their potion with baboon’s blood, sealing its power.
- Analysis:
- Symbolism:
- Baboons were seen as wild, unpredictable creatures, representing primal aggression.
- Theme: Savage nature—Macbeth’s descent into madness is reflected in the increasing barbarity of the potion’s ingredients.
- Symbolism:
HECATE ENTERS
“O, well done! I commend your pains, And everyone shall share i’ th’ gains.”
- Meaning: Hecate, the goddess of witchcraft, praises their efforts and promises rewards.
- Analysis:
- Hecate’s authority: She controls the witches, reinforcing her as the ultimate force behind Macbeth’s fate.
- Theme: Fate and manipulation—she acknowledges that their spell will have real consequences.
“And now about the cauldron sing Like elves and fairies in a ring, Enchanting all that you put in.”
- Meaning: She orders them to dance and sing around the cauldron, sealing their magic.
- Analysis:
- Contrast: “Elves and fairies” are typically associated with innocence, but here, they are linked to dark magic, subverting expectations.
- Theme: Illusion vs. reality—just as Macbeth is deceived by the witches’ words, innocent imagery is used to mask evil.
SECOND WITCH
“By the pricking of my thumbs,
Something wicked this way comes.”
- Meaning: The witch feels a tingling sensation in her thumbs, which she believes is a sign that something evil is approaching.
- Analysis: In folklore, witches were believed to have supernatural senses, and physical sensations (like a pricking thumb) were signs of magic or approaching danger.
- Language Techniques:
- Foreshadowing – The line hints at the arrival of Macbeth, who is now truly wicked.
- Rhyming couplet – “thumbs” and “comes” create a rhythm, making the line feel eerie and spell-like.
- Dramatic irony – The audience knows that Macbeth, once a noble warrior, has now turned into something “wicked.”
- Themes:
- Supernatural – The witches have unnatural knowledge.
- Fate and Free Will – Macbeth’s arrival suggests he is willingly walking into his own doom.
“Open, locks,
Whoever knocks.”
- Meaning: The witches are preparing to let Macbeth in. They don’t care who knocks; they will open the door.
- Analysis: This line suggests that they welcome anyone seeking dark knowledge. Macbeth is no longer hesitant—he actively seeks their help.
- Language Techniques:
- Imperative command – “Open, locks” gives a sense of control and magic.
- Rhyme – “locks” and “knocks” maintain the witches’ chant-like speech.
- Themes:
- Power and Corruption – Macbeth’s thirst for knowledge and power is leading him deeper into darkness.
Enter Macbeth.
- Meaning: Macbeth arrives, showing his desperation for more power.
- Analysis: His entrance right after “something wicked this way comes” confirms that he has changed. In the beginning, he was noble, but now he is the villain.
- Themes:
- Ambition – Macbeth’s desire for power is consuming him.
MACBETH
“How now, you secret, black, and midnight hags?”
- Meaning: Macbeth insults the witches, calling them secretive, dark, and evil.
- Analysis: Even though he comes to them for help, he still acknowledges their dark nature.
- Language Techniques:
- Tricolon (list of three) – “secret, black, and midnight” emphasizes their sinister nature.
- Alliteration – The “m” sound in “midnight” and “Macbeth” links him to darkness.
- Themes:
- Evil and Darkness – Macbeth and the witches are associated with night and secrecy.
“What is ’t you do?”
- Meaning: He demands to know what they are doing.
- Analysis: Macbeth’s tone is commanding, showing how much he has changed. Earlier in the play, he was wary of the witches. Now, he orders them to answer him.
- Themes:
- Corruption of Power – Macbeth believes he has the right to control supernatural forces.
ALL WITCHES
“A deed without a name.”
- Meaning: The witches are doing something so dark and mysterious that it cannot even be named.
- Analysis: This adds to their eerie, supernatural presence. Their power is beyond human understanding.
- Themes:
- Mystery and the Supernatural – The witches’ actions remain unknowable.
MACBETH
“I conjure you by that which you profess (Howe’er you come to know it), answer me.”
- Meaning: Macbeth demands that the witches answer his questions, swearing them to their own dark magic.
- Analysis: Macbeth’s desperation shows. He no longer fears the witches but instead tries to control them.
- Language Techniques:
- Imperative verb (“answer”) – Macbeth is no longer polite; he is forceful.
- Themes:
- Ambition – Macbeth is desperate for power and knowledge.
“Though you untie the winds and let them fight
Against the churches, though the yeasty waves
Confound and swallow navigation up,”
- Meaning: Macbeth acknowledges the witches’ power to cause storms and chaos, even destroying churches and sinking ships.
- Analysis: He is saying, “Even if you destroy everything, I don’t care—just answer me.”
- Language Techniques:
- Personification – “winds fight” and “waves confound” make nature seem alive and violent.
- Symbolism – Churches represent religion and morality, which Macbeth no longer values.
- Themes:
- Destruction and Chaos – Macbeth’s world is falling apart, just like nature.
“Though bladed corn be lodged and trees blown down,
Though castles topple on their warders’ heads,”
- Meaning: Even if crops are destroyed and castles collapse, Macbeth still wants his answers.
- Analysis: This shows his obsession—he does not care if the world burns as long as he gets what he wants.
- Themes:
- Power vs. Nature – Macbeth’s desire for control is unnatural and destructive.
“Though palaces and pyramids do slope
Their heads to their foundations,”
- Meaning: Even if mighty structures crumble, Macbeth does not care.
- Analysis: He is willing to bring down civilization itself to keep his throne.
- Themes:
- Corruption and Tyranny – Macbeth’s hunger for power is limitless.
“Though the treasure
Of nature’s germens tumble all together
Even till destruction sicken, answer me
To what I ask you.”
- Meaning: Even if the very seeds of life are destroyed, Macbeth still demands an answer.
- Analysis: His obsession with power has made him reckless.
- Themes:
- Madness – Macbeth is losing control of himself.
WITCHES
FIRST WITCH: “Speak.”
SECOND WITCH: “Demand.”
THIRD WITCH: “We’ll answer.”
- Meaning: The witches agree to give Macbeth what he wants.
- Analysis: They respond in short, commanding lines, showing their eerie unity.
- Themes:
- Fate vs. Free Will – Macbeth thinks he is in control, but the witches still manipulate him.
FIRST WITCH
“Say if th’ hadst rather hear it from our mouths
Or from our masters’.”
- Meaning: The witches ask if Macbeth wants to hear from them or from the spirits they serve.
- Analysis: This suggests that the witches are not the most powerful beings—they answer to higher dark forces.
- Themes:
- The Supernatural – There are greater, unseen evil forces at work.
MACBETH
“Call ’em. Let me see ’em.”
- Meaning: Macbeth is so desperate for answers that he demands to see these spirits.
- Analysis: He no longer hesitates—he embraces dark magic completely.
- Themes:
- Moral Decay – Macbeth has no boundaries anymore.
FIRST WITCH
“Pour in sow’s blood that hath eaten
Her nine farrow; grease that’s sweaten—”
- Meaning: The witches begin a dark ritual using blood and fat from a mother pig that ate her own babies.
- Analysis: This disturbing imagery reinforces their evil nature.
- Themes:
- Evil and Corruption – The witches deal with gruesome magic.
“From the murderers’ gibbet throw Into the flame.”
- Explanation: A gibbet is a place where executed criminals’ bodies were displayed. The witches are throwing remains of such a person into their potion.
- Analysis: This adds to the dark, gruesome imagery of the scene. It reinforces the witches’ association with death and evil.
- Techniques: Imagery (gruesome details), symbolism (death and corruption).
- Themes: Supernatural, fate, evil.
“ALL Come high or low; Thyself and office deftly show.”
- Explanation: The witches are calling on spirits, whether they come from high places (heaven) or low places (hell). They want the spirits to reveal themselves.
- Analysis: The witches act as intermediaries between Macbeth and the supernatural world. Their chant makes them seem powerful.
- Techniques: Rhyming couplets (witches’ speech often rhymes, making it sound like a spell), supernatural elements.
- Themes: Fate, supernatural, temptation.
Thunder. First Apparition, an Armed Head.
- Explanation: A ghostly vision appears. It is a floating head wearing armor.
- Analysis: The armed head represents Macbeth’s fear of being beheaded, foreshadowing his death.
- Techniques: Symbolism (head = future decapitation), foreshadowing.
- Themes: Fate, fear, violence.
“MACBETH: Tell me, thou unknown power—”
- Explanation: Macbeth wants to know who or what this spirit is.
- Analysis: Macbeth is desperate for answers, showing his increasing dependence on the supernatural.
- Themes: Ambition, fate, supernatural.
“FIRST WITCH: He knows thy thought. Hear his speech but say thou naught.”
- Explanation: The witch tells Macbeth that the apparition already knows what he’s thinking. Macbeth should just listen.
- Analysis: This builds suspense. It also shows the witches’ power—they communicate with spirits that understand human thoughts.
- Techniques: Mystery, dramatic tension.
- Themes: Fate, supernatural, power.
“FIRST APPARITION: Macbeth! Macbeth! Macbeth! Beware Macduff! Beware the Thane of Fife! Dismiss me. Enough.”
- Explanation: The spirit warns Macbeth to be cautious of Macduff (the Thane of Fife).
- Analysis: This confirms Macbeth’s fear of Macduff and sets up the conflict between them.
- Techniques: Repetition (“Macbeth! Macbeth! Macbeth!” creates urgency), imperative (commands like “Beware!”).
- Themes: Fate, paranoia, violence.
“MACBETH: Whate’er thou art, for thy good caution, thanks. Thou hast harped my fear aright. But one word more—”
- Explanation: Macbeth thanks the spirit for confirming his fears. He wants to ask more questions.
- Analysis: Macbeth trusts the supernatural too much. He ignores reason and relies on the witches’ words.
- Themes: Fate, ambition, power.
“FIRST WITCH: He will not be commanded. Here’s another More potent than the first.”
- Explanation: The witches say that the spirit won’t answer any more questions. Instead, another spirit will appear.
- Analysis: This builds suspense. The witches control what Macbeth learns.
- Themes: Supernatural, power.
Thunder. Second Apparition, a Bloody Child.
- Explanation: A second ghostly vision appears. It is a child covered in blood.
- Analysis: The bloody child represents Macduff, who was born by C-section (not “naturally” born from a woman). This foreshadows Macbeth’s downfall.
- Techniques: Symbolism (child = Macduff), foreshadowing.
- Themes: Fate, deception, violence.
“SECOND APPARITION: Macbeth! Macbeth! Macbeth!—”
- Explanation: Like the first apparition, this one repeats Macbeth’s name three times.
- Analysis: This pattern creates a dramatic effect. It makes Macbeth seem doomed.
- Techniques: Repetition.
- Themes: Fate, supernatural.
“MACBETH: Had I three ears, I’d hear thee.”
- Explanation: Macbeth jokes that if he had three ears, he’d listen even better.
- Analysis: This shows his desperation for knowledge, but also a hint of arrogance.
- Themes: Ambition, power.
“SECOND APPARITION: Be bloody, bold, and resolute. Laugh to scorn The power of man, for none of woman born Shall harm Macbeth.”
- Explanation: The spirit tells Macbeth to be confident and fearless because no one born from a woman can harm him.
- Analysis: Macbeth misinterprets this message. He thinks it means no man can defeat him, but it actually hints at his downfall (Macduff was born by C-section).
- Techniques: Irony (Macbeth believes he is safe, but he isn’t), foreshadowing.
- Themes: Fate, overconfidence, deception.
“MACBETH: Then live, Macduff; what need I fear of thee?”
- Explanation: Macbeth questions why he should be afraid of Macduff if no man can harm him.
- Analysis: Macbeth starts feeling invincible. He dismisses Macduff as a threat.
- Themes: Hubris (excessive pride), fate, ambition.
“But yet I’ll make assurance double sure And take a bond of fate. Thou shalt not live,”
- Explanation: Even though Macbeth feels safe, he still decides to kill Macduff just in case.
- Analysis: This shows Macbeth’s paranoia. He no longer takes chances—he acts on every suspicion.
- Themes: Power, violence, fear.
“That I may tell pale-hearted fear it lies, And sleep in spite of thunder.”
- Explanation: Macbeth wants to defeat fear itself and sleep peacefully, despite all the chaos around him.
- Analysis: Ironically, his actions will only bring him more nightmares and paranoia.
- Techniques: Personification (fear is given human qualities), irony.
- Themes: Ambition, fear, fate.
Thunder. Third Apparition, a Child Crowned, with a tree in his hand.
Explanation:
A loud thunderclap signals the arrival of the third vision—a crowned child holding a tree. This symbolizes a future ruler and foreshadows an important event.
Analysis:
- Imagery – The child wearing a crown represents a future king, hinting at Banquo’s descendants.
- Symbolism – The tree represents movement and disguise, which connects to the prophecy about Birnam Wood.
Macbeth:
“What is this
That rises like the issue of a king
And wears upon his baby brow the round
And top of sovereignty?”
Explanation:
Macbeth sees the vision and is confused. He describes it as resembling the child of a king. He notices that the child wears a crown, signifying royal power.
Analysis:
- Dramatic irony – The audience knows that Banquo’s descendants will take the throne, but Macbeth hopes this vision refers to him.
- Metaphor – “Round and top of sovereignty” refers to the crown and the highest position of power.
Witches:
“Listen but speak not to ’t.”
Explanation:
The witches tell Macbeth to listen carefully but not to speak to the apparition.
Analysis:
- Control & Mystery – The witches maintain their power over Macbeth by limiting how much he can engage.
- Supernatural Influence – Macbeth is completely under their spell now, showing how much he depends on their words.
Third Apparition:
“Be lion-mettled, proud, and take no care
Who chafes, who frets, or where conspirers are.”
Explanation:
The apparition tells Macbeth to be strong and fearless, like a lion. It tells him not to worry about enemies or people plotting against him.
Analysis:
- Metaphor – “Lion-mettled” compares Macbeth’s bravery to a lion, reinforcing his aggressive nature.
- Encouragement of Hubris – The prophecy makes Macbeth overconfident, leading to his downfall.
**”Macbeth shall never vanquished be until
Great Birnam Wood to high Dunsinane Hill
Shall come against him.”**
Explanation:
The apparition declares that Macbeth cannot be defeated unless Birnam Wood moves to Dunsinane Hill. This seems impossible to Macbeth, so he assumes he is safe.
Analysis:
- Irony – The prophecy sounds reassuring, but later, soldiers camouflage themselves with tree branches from Birnam Wood, making it seem as if the forest is moving.
- Foreshadowing – The vision hints at Macbeth’s eventual downfall, even though he misinterprets it.
Macbeth:
“That will never be.
Who can impress the forest, bid the tree
Unfix his earthbound root?”
Explanation:
Macbeth believes the prophecy is absurd. Trees cannot move on their own, so he thinks he is invincible.
Analysis:
- Dramatic Irony – The audience understands that this could be metaphorical, but Macbeth doesn’t.
- Hubris (Excessive Pride) – Macbeth’s arrogance grows because he assumes he cannot be defeated.
**”Sweet bodements, good!
Rebellious dead, rise never till the Wood
Of Birnam rise, and our high-placed Macbeth
Shall live the lease of nature, pay his breath
To time and mortal custom.”**
Explanation:
Macbeth is reassured by the prophecy. He believes he will live a full life and die naturally, not in battle.
Analysis:
- Hubris & Overconfidence – Macbeth ignores other warnings and now believes himself untouchable.
- Foreshadowing – The phrase “rebellious dead” subtly hints at the revenge of Macduff and Malcolm.
**”Yet my heart
Throbs to know one thing. Tell me, if your art
Can tell so much: shall Banquo’s issue ever
Reign in this kingdom?”**
Explanation:
Despite the reassurances, Macbeth is still worried about Banquo’s descendants. He demands to know if they will ever rule Scotland.
Analysis:
- Fear & Paranoia – Even after receiving good news for himself, Macbeth is still obsessed with Banquo’s fate.
- Contrast – Macbeth’s reaction shows his selfishness. He only cares about his legacy, not his people.
Witches:
“Seek to know no more.”
Explanation:
The witches warn Macbeth not to ask further questions. They know the truth will only upset him.
Analysis:
- Ominous Tone – The witches’ refusal suggests that the answer is not what Macbeth wants to hear.
- Foreshadowing – Their words hint at the devastating vision to come, showing Banquo’s descendants ruling.
Macbeth:
“I will be satisfied. Deny me this,
And an eternal curse fall on you! Let me know!”
Explanation:
Macbeth refuses to be denied. He threatens the witches, demanding the truth.
Analysis:
- Desperation & Arrogance – Macbeth now feels powerful enough to threaten supernatural beings.
- Lack of Control – Despite his confidence, his obsession with fate shows his vulnerability.
**”Cauldron sinks. Hautboys.
Why sinks that cauldron? And what noise is this?”**
Explanation:
The cauldron disappears, and strange music plays. Macbeth is confused and uneasy.
Analysis:
- Supernatural Elements – The magical imagery reinforces the eerie and unsettling tone.
- Shift in Mood – Macbeth’s confidence is shaken, suggesting that something worse is coming.
Witches:
“Show.”
Explanation:
The witches chant, preparing to reveal more visions.
Analysis:
- Repetition – The word “show” builds suspense and mystery.
- Power Dynamic – Even though Macbeth demanded answers, the witches remain in control.
All:
“Show his eyes and grieve his heart.
Come like shadows; so depart.”*
Explanation:
The witches invite the next vision, warning that what Macbeth sees will upset him.
Analysis:
- Foreshadowing – Macbeth is about to learn a painful truth, likely about Banquo’s lineage.
- Symbolism – “Shadows” represent illusions, reinforcing the theme of deception.
“A show of eight kings, the eighth king with a glass in his hand, and Banquo last.”
Explanation: The stage direction describes what Macbeth sees—a parade of eight kings, with the eighth holding a mirror (glass), and Banquo appearing last.
Analysis: The glass (mirror) symbolizes the future, reflecting even more kings to come. Banquo’s presence suggests that his descendants will rule for generations.
Themes: Fate, prophecy, legitimacy of rule
“Thou art too like the spirit of Banquo. Down!”
Explanation: Macbeth reacts in horror, telling the vision to disappear. He sees the first king and thinks it resembles Banquo.
Analysis: The repetition of “thou” shows Macbeth’s rising panic. The word “Down!” is an imperative, showing his desperation to reject the vision.
Themes: Paranoia, fear of fate
“Thy crown does sear mine eyeballs.”
Explanation: Macbeth finds the sight of the crowned king unbearable.
Analysis: The verb “sear” (burn) is a strong metaphor, suggesting both physical pain and psychological torment.
Themes: Guilt, ambition, psychological suffering
“And thy hair, Thou other gold-bound brow, is like the first.”
Explanation: Macbeth notices that the second king resembles the first, meaning Banquo’s lineage continues.
Analysis: “Gold-bound brow” refers to the crown, reinforcing the image of royal succession.
Themes: Kingship, fate
“A third is like the former.—Filthy hags, Why do you show me this?”
Explanation: Macbeth sees a third king who also resembles Banquo, and he turns angrily to the witches.
Analysis: The insult “filthy hags” expresses Macbeth’s frustration and his growing helplessness in the face of fate.
Themes: Powerlessness, anger
“A fourth? Start, eyes!”
Explanation: Macbeth is shocked that Banquo’s descendants seem endless.
Analysis: The exclamation “Start, eyes!” personifies his own eyes, as if commanding them not to believe what they see.
Themes: Fate, supernatural
“What, will the line stretch out to th’ crack of doom?”
Explanation: Macbeth wonders if Banquo’s lineage will last until the end of time (“crack of doom” means Judgment Day).
Analysis: This hyperbole emphasizes the overwhelming nature of the vision.
Themes: Fate, eternal rule, fear
“Another yet? A seventh? I’ll see no more.”
Explanation: Macbeth can no longer bear to watch as the parade continues.
Analysis: The rising numbers build dramatic tension. His phrase “I’ll see no more” suggests denial, but he is powerless to stop the vision.
Themes: Destiny, helplessness
“And yet the eighth appears who bears a glass, Which shows me many more,”
Explanation: The eighth king holds a mirror that reflects even more kings, revealing Banquo’s long-lasting dynasty.
Analysis: The mirror symbolizes both prophecy and reality—Macbeth is forced to see his worst fear.
Themes: Fate, monarchy
“And some I see That twofold balls and treble scepters carry.”
Explanation: Some of the kings hold double or triple symbols of power, possibly representing future British monarchs.
Analysis: The “twofold balls” (orbs) and “treble scepters” symbolize authority, perhaps referencing King James I, who ruled both England and Scotland.
Themes: Prophecy, divine right of kings
“Horrible sight! Now I see ’tis true, For the blood-boltered Banquo smiles upon me And points at them for his.”
Explanation: Macbeth realizes that Banquo’s bloodline will indeed inherit the throne, and Banquo’s ghost mocks him.
Analysis: “Blood-boltered” (covered in blood) is a gruesome image, reminding Macbeth of Banquo’s murder. Banquo’s smile is ironic, as Macbeth hoped killing him would prevent this outcome.
Themes: Fate, regret, supernatural
“The Apparitions disappear.”
Explanation: The vision fades, leaving Macbeth shaken.
Themes: Illusion vs. reality, powerlessness
“What, is this so?”
Explanation: Macbeth is stunned and asks if what he saw is real.
Themes: Confusion, disbelief
“FIRST WITCH: Ay, sir, all this is so. But why Stands Macbeth thus amazedly?”
Explanation: The witches confirm the vision’s truth and mock Macbeth for his reaction.
Analysis: The witches remain indifferent to Macbeth’s suffering, showing their power over him.
Themes: Supernatural, fate
“Come, sisters, cheer we up his sprites And show the best of our delights.”
Explanation: The witches prepare to entertain Macbeth with a dance.
Analysis: Their casual tone contrasts Macbeth’s horror, reinforcing their control over him.
Themes: Manipulation, supernatural
“I’ll charm the air to give a sound While you perform your antic round,”
Explanation: One witch casts a spell so music can play while they dance.
Themes: Magic, supernatural
“That this great king may kindly say Our duties did his welcome pay.”
Explanation: The witches sarcastically say they are honoring Macbeth.
Analysis: Calling Macbeth “great king” is ironic, as he has just seen proof that his reign is temporary.
Themes: Deception, false security
“Music. The Witches dance and vanish.”
Explanation: The witches disappear, leaving Macbeth alone.
Themes: Illusion, powerlessness
“MACBETH: Where are they? Gone?”
Explanation: Macbeth is confused and frustrated by their sudden departure.
Themes: Loss of control, supernatural
“Let this pernicious hour Stand aye accursèd in the calendar!”
Explanation: Macbeth curses this moment, wishing it to be remembered as evil.
Analysis: “Pernicious” (deadly) reflects his fury. This is dramatic irony—his downfall began long before this vision.
Themes: Fate, consequence
“Come in, without there. Enter Lennox.”
Explanation: Macbeth calls for his servant Lennox, returning to reality.
Themes: Isolation, paranoia
Lennox:
“What’s your Grace’s will?”
Lennox addresses Macbeth with formality (your Grace), showing both respect and detachment. His cautious tone suggests that Macbeth’s rule has become dangerous.
- Theme: Tyranny and Fear – Macbeth’s rule inspires fear, not loyalty.
Macbeth:
“Saw you the Weïrd Sisters?”
Macbeth’s immediate concern is the witches, showing his obsession with fate and the supernatural.
- Theme: Fate vs. Free Will – Macbeth depends on the witches for guidance, rather than making his own decisions.
- Dramatic Irony – The audience knows the witches manipulate him, but Macbeth does not.
Lennox:
“No, my lord.”
A short, cautious reply. Lennox’s brevity could indicate discomfort around Macbeth.
Macbeth:
“Came they not by you?”
Macbeth repeats his question, showing his paranoia and frustration.
Lennox:
“No, indeed, my lord.”
Another short reply, reinforcing Lennox’s neutrality and possible fear.
Macbeth:
“Infected be the air whereon they ride,
And damned all those that trust them!”
Macbeth curses the witches, calling the air they travel on infected, linking them to disease and corruption. The phrase damned all those that trust them is ironic because he himself trusted them.
- Theme: Corruption of Power – Macbeth acknowledges their danger but still follows their guidance.
- Imagery – The idea of infected air suggests moral decay spreading like a plague.
“I did hear
The galloping of horse. Who was ’t came by?”
Macbeth quickly shifts his focus, indicating restlessness. The symbolism of galloping horses represents approaching danger and urgency.
Lennox:
“’Tis two or three, my lord, that bring you word
Macduff is fled to England.”
Lennox delivers the news that Macduff has escaped, a crucial turning point in the play.
- Theme: Betrayal and Revenge – Macduff’s flight signals growing opposition to Macbeth.
Macbeth:
“Fled to England?”
A short, shocked response, showing Macbeth’s fear and anger.
Lennox:
“Ay, my good lord.”
Lennox confirms Macduff’s escape, maintaining his formal and cautious tone.
Macbeth (aside):
“Time, thou anticipat’st my dread exploits.”
Macbeth personifies time, blaming it for working against him. He feels constantly outpaced, which fuels his desperation.
- Theme: Fate vs. Free Will – Macbeth sees time as an enemy, yet his own choices lead to his downfall.
“The flighty purpose never is o’ertook
Unless the deed go with it.”
Macbeth reflects that hesitation leads to failure. He now believes that thought must be followed by immediate action.
- Foreshadowing – This shift in thinking will lead to his downfall.
“From this moment
The very firstlings of my heart shall be
The firstlings of my hand.”
Macbeth decides to act on impulse—whatever he feels (firstlings of my heart), he will immediately do (firstlings of my hand).
- Theme: Recklessness and Tyranny – Macbeth abandons caution, leading to reckless violence.
- Parallelism – The repetition of firstlings emphasizes the shift in his mindset.
“And even now,
To crown my thoughts with acts, be it thought and done:”
The word crown links back to his ambition. He wants his thoughts to become immediate actions.
- Theme: Ambition and Corruption – Macbeth’s ambition now justifies any crime.
“The castle of Macduff I will surprise,
Seize upon Fife, give to th’ edge o’ th’ sword
His wife, his babes, and all unfortunate souls
That trace him in his line.”
Macbeth plans mass murder, ordering the slaughter of Macduff’s innocent family.
- Theme: Innocence vs. Guilt – Killing children and women shows how far Macbeth has fallen.
- Imagery – Give to th’ edge o’ th’ sword creates a brutal visual of violence.
- Dramatic Irony – Macbeth believes this will secure his throne, but it fuels his downfall.
“No boasting like a fool;
This deed I’ll do before this purpose cool.”
Macbeth refuses to hesitate. The phrase before this purpose cool suggests he fears second-guessing himself.
- Theme: The Dangers of Impulsivity – Macbeth prioritizes speed over wisdom.
“But no more sights!”
Macbeth wants to ignore visions and supernatural warnings, showing his desperation to shut out fear.
- Theme: Supernatural vs. Reality – Macbeth rejects supernatural signs but still follows the witches’ words.
“Where are these gentlemen?
Come bring me where they are.”
Macbeth immediately seeks out his men, ready to act on his violent plan. This commanding tone shows his growing confidence in tyranny.
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