Essay On Equivocation In Macbeth

1. Equivocation is a theory that defends lying, claiming that if a statement can be considered truthful from a certain perspective, it’s not actually lying. The prophecy that Macbeth receives concerning Birnam Wood moving to Dunsinane Hill is an example of equivocation, because even though the woods don't actually move, they seem to move when the soldiers disguise themselves with branches. From a visual perspective, the prophecy comes true.

2. First, a new king could be elected by other thanes; this method was used in Scotland until the eleventh century. This is the way Macbeth gets the throne. Second, the throne could be gained through inheritance. This is called patrilineal succession through primogeniture, which states that the first-born

King Duncan's legitimate heir is Malcom. He flees to England after his father's murder.

Identify the Quotation

1. Macbeth is delivering a soliloquy. He is considering the meaning and nature of the initial prophecy the weird sisters gave him. Macbeth wonders how the prophecy can be good, because he’s already having “horrible” thoughts, probably about killing Duncan. This quote’s significance lies in demonstrating Macbeth’s early ambition ,thoughts of murder, and his inner turmoil. (I.3.135-143)

2. The witches are chanting these lines as they exit the first scene. The lines illustrate the evil nature of the witches, who enjoy things that are foul and find disgust in fair things. The significance of this quote is in the disorder and inversion demonstrated in these lines.

Lady Macbeth delivering a soliloquy, even though a doctor and her gentlewoman are listening. She is sleepwalking and dreaming that she can’t wash a spot of blood; this symbolizes her guilty involvement in Duncan’s murder, from her hand. This quotation is significant because it shows the inner torment and guilt that invades Lady Macbeth’s sleep. Previously able to think rationally about the crimes she and Macbeth commit, by this scene Lady Macbeth’s emotions and conscience have caught up with her. (V.1.31-35)

4. In this quotation, Banquo tells Macbeth that he’ll help fulfill the weird sisters’ prophecy as long as doing so doesn’t compromise his loyalty and allegiance to Duncan. This conversation represents the beginning of the separation of two friends and is significant because it shows how Banquo is able to resist his temptation toward evil while Macbeth is not. (II.1.26-29)

5. In these lines, Duncan is talking to Malcom about the original Thane of Cawdor. He states that it is impossible to understand a man’s inner thoughts and feelings from his face. This quotation is significant because the distinction between a man’s face and his heart is a theme throughout the play, especially in relation to Macbeth.