The Theme Of Appearance Vs. Reality In Macbeth

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An ominous presence looms as three witches appear from a mist emanating a feeling of darkness, destruction, and trickery. The sound of thunder numbs your ears while the light blinds your vision. Such is the familiar introduction of William Shakespeare’s Macbeth. The theme of Appearance vs. Reality throughout the play is presented during the exordium of the play and is first introduced by the Witches. After discussing their next meeting with Macbeth, they depart saying, “fair is foul and foul is fair” (1.1.12). Their words seem to contradict each other, presenting the conception of appearance versus reality. In other words, appearances are often deceiving and what appears to be good additionally be deplorable.
Macbeth’s first words were: “So foul and fair a day I have not yet seen” (1.3.39). The day being fair due to his victory at the war, and foul due to the loss of so many lives and stormy weather. Again, stressing the theme of appearance versus reality. In the same scene, Macbeth has his first encounter with the weird sisters. Banquo is immediately appalled by the witches appearance and presence, while Macbeth attempts to converse …show more content…

Look like the’ innocent flower,/ But be the serpent under ’t” (1.5.75-78). She essentially told Macbeth to appear kind, but hide his evil intentions with a fake smile, revealing the theme of appearance versus reality. Duncan was fooled from the very start, from the moment he entered Macbeth’s castle he was misled by false appearances. Duncan describes the castle in a positive manner. “This castle hath a pleasant seat. The air/ Nimbly and sweetly recommends itself/ Unto our gentle senses” (1.6.1-3). Ironically, Duncan dies the same night, in the very same castle he described as pleasant. This supports the theme, as the “fair” castle becomes a place where “foul” deeds like betrayal and regicide take

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