Explore a critical yet often unthought theme in Macbeth that will make you stand out like no other to your examiners. Key scenes which show these themes are analysed including an alternative interpretation.
1. “Have plucked my nipple from his boneless gums and dashed the brains out”
A1, S7
● LM uses the imagery of a child (associated with vulnerability + innocence) to
manipulate Macbeth
● LM’s desire to have power is more than to have children - which would finally
give her significance as a woman in Jacobean society
● LM disrupts the typical qualities associated with being a mother + women
2. “For Banquo’s issue have I filed my mind. For them the gracious Duncan have I
murdered “A3, S1
● Macbeth is very worried that Banquo’s children will be King - he questions
whether his actions were worthwhile - as his power will be short-lived
● Shakespeare is telling the nobles that James I has been chosen by God - as
Banquo was an ancestor of James I
3. “What, all my pretty chickens and their dam. At one fell swoop” A4, S3
● Macduff shows the binary opposition between him and Macbeth - he is both
an affectionate and loving husband + father as well as a powerful warrior -
everything Macbeth cannot be
● The sense of immense grief foreshadows him avenging this by killing
Macbeth
4. “Had I as many sons as I have hairs. I would not wish them a fairer death” A5,
S11
● When Siward learns his son has been killed in battle - he’s proud that his son
has died honourably
● Demonstrated the importance of honour + valour - which is why Macbeth had
to be killed - he lacked all these qualities
● Siward can consider it worthwhile to have lost his child - since Macbeth no
longer occupies the throne
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