Act 4 Scene 1 Apparition In Macbeth

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Many of William Shakespeare’s works have made a monumental impact on the

way people view specific aspects of the supernatural due to his interpretations. In

Macbeth, the reader sees how Shakespeare views witches, apparitions, and other

supernatural entities and how they can affect a person; all of which affect Macbeth in

one way or another. For example the witches completely alter the course of Macbeth’s

life entirely by unveiling his future in the first act. Another example happened in act 3

scene 4; the ghost of Banquo appears to Macbeth and only to Macbeth which makes

him look psychotic. This paper will be fully directed to the effect act 4 scene 1 had on

Macbeth.

In act 4 scene 1, the audience is greeted by the same 3 …show more content…

Macbeth has absolutely nothing and nobody to

fear (Wilkins, Brian).

Upon hearing this great news, Macbeth shows joy and less fear. The second

apparition has almost counter acted the effects of first apparition's message. Something

is still uneasy in Macbeth’s mind about Macduff. Macbeth now expresses that Macduff

is harmless to him, but just to make sure, Macbeth will still have Macduff killed just so

he won’t cause any distress to him. This apparition represents the childish fear Macbeth

is showing towards losing “his” crown. Also, this apparition represents the willingness of

Macbeth to kill someone innocent, like a child, to keep “his” crown safe.

The third apparition appears in the form of a child wearing a crown with a tree in

his hand. The child says that Macbeth has absolutely nothing to worry about. Also,

Macbeth needs to a brave and proud and that he will never be defeated (Shakespeare,

138). Macbeth loves the messages he is receiving. His fear is starting to fade away from

his mind. Macbeth now believes that he will never have to worry about anyone coming

to kill him for the crown. However, one thing he is worrying about is if any of

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