Macbeth Ambiguous Language Essay

William Shakespeare utilizes ambiguous language throughout act one of Macbeth to create an air of confusion and contradiction. By employing the use of an equivocation fallacy in accordance with contronyms, the witches are able to conceal the truth and deceive Macbeth, thus adding to the dramatic irony of the play. Shakespeare’s use of equivocation in the play was most likely influenced by the notorious interrogations of the Jesuits that occurred in England in 1605. The notion of equivocation became infamous in England when Jesuits were interrogated by Protestant authorities and were forced to choose between denying their faith and eradicating their souls or affirming their faith and saving their souls. To escape death whilst still keeping

The witches predict that Macbeth will become Thane of Cawdor and King of Scotland while Banqou’s child will become king: “All hail, Macbeth! hail to thee, thane of Glamis! All hail, Macbeth, hail to thee, thane of Cawdor! All hail, Macbeth, thou shalt be king hereafter! (1.3.50–52).” The witches continue to deceive Macbeth with their equivocal language which in turn creates a dark, suspenseful and ominous mood. For instance, the witches speak in riddles which establishes the moral confusion portrayed throughout the play: “Lesser than Macbeth, and greater. Not so happy, yet much happier. Thou shalt get kings, though thou be none” (1.3.67–69). The tone of the witches is intentionally unclear and evokes a duality of meaning. Moreover, “lesser than Macbeth, and greater” could mean that Banqou will be ranked lower in terms of aristocracy or could mean that he would be of less importance than Macbeth but would still be “greater” (1.3.67). Shakespeare incorporates this equivocal fallacy in the witches’ dialogue to add to the suspenseful mood that permeates the play. The reader is able to witness the mistranslation on Macbeth’s part and the deceitful intentions of the witches that consequently leads to dramatic