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Foreshadow In Macbeth

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Macbeth Essay (Draft Copy)
In Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Act 2, Scene 2 is the most significant because it foreshadows that Macbeth will have an inner conflict, develops on Lady Macbeth’s dominance in her relationship, and revolves around the central theme of “ambition”. In this scene, Lady Macbeth meets Macbeth in the courtyard after he murders Duncan. Macbeth is clearly disturbed by what he has done. Lady Macbeth lectures him on his manhood, and leaves to kill the soldiers. Firstly, this scene is significant because it foreshadows that Macbeth will have an inner conflict. Macbeth is disturbed by his actions and thinks he will never rest peacefully again. Secondly, this scene is significant because it shows Lady Macbeth as the dominant spouse. …show more content…

She continuously lectures Macbeth about his manhood, and tells him not to think so much about what is done. “These deeds must not be thought after these ways; so, it will make us mad” (II.ii.45-46). Lady Macbeth (at this point) does not think too much of the murder, and tells Macbeth to do the same, or otherwise it would make them insane. This is ironic, because in Act 5, Scene 1, when Macbeth’s deed has long left his mind, Lady Macbeth sleepwalks and refers to this conversation. Furthermore, Lady Macbeth plays the more ‘manly’ part in this scene. When Macbeth brings the daggers, and is too scared to go back, it is Lady Macbeth that kills the guards. “My hands are of your colour; but I shame to wear a heart so white” (II.ii.81-82).
Lady Macbeth uses these metaphors to refer to the blood on their hand, and the fear in Macbeth’s heart. Therefore, showing Lady Macbeth’s dominance over Macbeth.
Finally, this scene is significant as it revolves around the central theme of ambition. Ambition has been one of the biggest themes in Macbeth since the beginning that is further built on in this scene. In order to gain power, Macbeth goes as far as to kill his own cousin. At the same time, Lady Macbeth’s afraid that if Macbeth is unsuccessful, it would ruin them. “And ‘tis not done: the attempt and not the deed confounds us.” (II.ii.14-15). Lady Macbeth hears a voice and thinks that Macbeth

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