Imagery In Macbeth :: essays research papers

The Role of Imagery in Macbeth     If a picture tells a thousand words, than imagine the importance of an image upon a play such(prenominal) as Macbeth. In any literary work, it is extremely important that the cause can effectively manipulate a readers feelings towards a character. In Macbeth, that operation is accomplished magnificently by Shakespeare. Through his skillful use of imagery, Shakespeare shows us a deeper look into the true character of Macbeth. Though imagery is widespread throughout Macbeth, it is most dominant in wearing imagery, light and shabbiness imagery, and blood imagery. Through these images,Shakespeare shows the development of Macbeths character.Using clothing imagery, Shakespeare develops Macbeths character. This is evident, as, imagery of clothing shows us Macbeths ambition and the consequences thereof. We delay this ambition, through Banquo, when he says, "New honor come upon him, / Like our strange garments, cleave not to t heir / mould further with the aid of use." (Shakespeare, Macbeth I, III, 144-146), meaning that refreshing clothes do not contact our bodies, until we are accustomed to them. Throughout the entire play, Macbeth is constantly wearing new clothes (titles), that are not his, and do not fit. Hence, his ambition. This ambition, as we see, is what leads to his demise. When Macbeth premier(prenominal) hears the prophecy that he will be King, he does not see how it can be so, "to be king / Stands not within the expectation of belief" (I, III, 73-74). However, Macbeths ambitious nature becomes visible when he considers murdering King Duncan to deed the throne, "If it were done, when tis done, then twere well / It were done quickly" (I, VII, 1-2). His ambition is encouraged by Lady Macbeth, of whom attempts to convince him to commit this crime, and lay claim to the throne. He is slow however, as Macbeth states, "I have bought / Golden opinions from all sorts of people, / Which would be wear now in their newest gloss, / Not cast aside so curtly" (I, VII, 32-35). Macbeth compares being recently named the Thane of Cawdor to a new set of clothes. He believes that he his not ready to be king, and thus not ready for a new set of clothes. He states that the clothes that they have should be drawn for a little while longer. However, Lady Macbeth convinces Macbeth otherwise, and he proceeds, and murders King Duncan.