Quote: "I have no spur to prick the sides of my intent save vaulting ambition which o'er-leaps itself and falls on the other."
Macbeth's ambition is like a horse's jump that overreaches and fails.
Spurs (ambition) are not enough; Macbeth needs a rider (Lady Macbeth) to control it.
Supernatural influence (witches) is insufficient; ambition alone doesn't drive him to murder.
Theme: Ambition is not Macbeth's fatal flaw (hamartia) but his love for Lady Macbeth might be.
Supernatural and Duality
Quote: "Fair is foul, and foul is fair hover through the fog and filthy air."
Theme: Duality/Appearance vs. Reality.
Describes a universe where appearances are deceptive.
Macbeth's actions and fate highlight the failure to discern true intentions.
Theme: Destiny vs. Free Will; Macbeth could wait for the prophecy to fulfill itself but chooses haste.
Lady Macbeth's Influence
Quote: "Out, damned spot! Out, I say—one; two: why, then, 'tis time to do't."
Represents guilt and realization of her damnation.
Theme: Power and Influence; Lady Macbeth's logic and ambition lead to tragedy.
Rejection of Patriarchy
Quote: "Come, you spirits that tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here."
Lady Macbeth rejects traditional female roles to gain power.
Critique of societal constraints on women.
Banquo and Prophecy
Quote: "Lesser than Macbeth, and greater. Not so happy, yet much happier."
Banquo's lineage is flattered as noble and divinely chosen.
Theme: Divine Right of Kings; God's choice of leadership.
Macbeth's Nihilism
Quote: "Out, out, brief candle."
Reflects Macbeth's nihilistic view on life.
Life is seen as pointless and predetermined, a reflection on fate vs. free will.
Connection to Christian imagery and divine punishment.
Lady Macbeth’s Manipulation
Quote: "Look like th' innocent flower, but be the serpent under 't."
Reference to biblical serpent (Satan) influencing Eve, Lady Macbeth influences Macbeth.
Theme: Gender roles and manipulation.
Reflection on Society and Women
Lady Macbeth’s Grief: Explores profound societal impacts on women, linking her actions to grief and societal roles.
Final Thoughts
Macbeth's quotes and actions provide a deep critique and exploration of ambition, control, influence, gender roles, and societal constraints.
Shakespeare’s work serves as both a reflection on and a guide to understanding human nature and societal dynamics, especially in relation to power and morality.