Macbeth • Act 2 Scene 2 • Shakespeare at Play

Summary

In this haunting and fragmented rendition of a scene from *Macbeth*, the protagonist grapples with the aftermath of murdering King Duncan. The transcript blends paranoia, guilt, and remorse, as Macbeth becomes increasingly distressed by the act. He experiences vivid thoughts of blood, death, and voices haunting him, while struggling to pronounce a blessing and facing his own moral disintegration. The sense of fear intensifies as he hears knocking at the door, symbolizing the unraveling of his mind and the irrevocable nature of his deeds. The script captures Macbeth’s descent into madness and the psychological toll of his actions.

Takeaways

• 😀 The protagonist reflects on the boldness and guilt instilled by their actions, expressing conflicted emotions after a murder.
• 😀 There is a reference to the metaphorical and literal consequences of the deed, including the loss of sleep and peace of mind.
• 😀 The protagonist expresses fear and uncertainty, struggling to comprehend the full implications of the murder they've committed.
• 😀 There's a recurring theme of sleep, with sleep symbolizing innocence and peace, and the murder causing the loss of this sanctity.
• 😀 The protagonist’s mind is filled with fear, confusion, and guilt, as they cannot even speak blessings when others do.
• 😀 They overhear others praying, which further emphasizes their inability to seek redemption or peace.
• 😀 The protagonist hears a voice declaring that they should sleep no more, symbolizing the torment and guilt following the murder.
• 😀 The protagonist’s guilt is so intense that they believe even the oceans cannot wash away the blood from their hands.
• 😀 There's a stark contrast between the protagonist's visible bloodstains and their desire to appear noble, indicating their inner conflict.
• 😀 The protagonist questions their own actions, wondering why they brought the daggers back and considering how their deeds might be perceived.
• 😀 As they wrestle with their conscience, the protagonist tries to push away the thoughts of their crime, reflecting the psychological unraveling brought on by their actions.

Q & A

What is the significance of the phrase 'that which hath made them drunk hath made me bold'?

This phrase suggests that the same influence or force (likely the drink or the act of murder) that has emboldened others has also given the speaker the courage to commit an immoral or daring act, in this case, likely referring to the murder of King Duncan.

How does the speaker feel about the murder they have committed?

The speaker is overwhelmed with guilt and fear, as evident in their internal struggle and hesitation. They seem disturbed by the gravity of their actions, especially the inability to say 'Amen' when others do, which reflects their fractured conscience.

What does the 'voice cry' in the text ('sleep no more') symbolize?

The voice that cries 'sleep no more' symbolizes the guilt and irreversible consequences of Macbeth's actions. It suggests that Macbeth can no longer find peace or rest after committing the murder, as his conscience is tormented.

Why is Macbeth unable to say 'Amen' when others do?

Macbeth cannot say 'Amen' because he feels that his soul is tainted by his sinful act of murder. His inability to speak the word reflects his deep sense of guilt and alienation from God, highlighting his inner turmoil.

What is the symbolic meaning of sleep in the script?

Sleep in the script symbolizes innocence, peace, and natural rest. The act of murder disrupts this peace, and Macbeth's inability to sleep signifies the destruction of his inner calm and the moral decay brought on by his actions.

What does Macbeth mean when he says, 'great Neptune's ocean wash this blood clean from my hand'?

This expression reflects Macbeth's belief that no amount of water could cleanse him of the guilt of his crime. He feels that his actions are so deeply stained that even the vastness of Neptune's ocean (a metaphor for cleansing) would not be enough.

How does Lady Macbeth try to calm Macbeth after the murder?

Lady Macbeth tries to calm Macbeth by urging him to regain composure, telling him that 'a little water clears us of this deed,' and advising him to change into his nightgown and avoid thinking about the consequences of their actions.

What is the significance of Macbeth's remark about 'hearts so white'?

Macbeth's remark about 'hearts so white' contrasts his own guilty hands with the apparent innocence of others. It suggests that, although his hands are stained with blood, he perceives himself to have a 'white' or pure heart, indicating his internal conflict and justification for his actions.

What does the phrase 'the death of each day's life' imply?

This phrase reflects the idea of sleep as a necessary form of renewal, a reprieve from the trials and cares of life. By murdering King Duncan, Macbeth has disrupted this natural cycle, as he can no longer experience peaceful rest.

What role does the knocking at the door play in the script?

The knocking at the door serves as a dramatic device that heightens the tension and fear surrounding the murder. It symbolizes the approach of discovery and the inevitable consequences of Macbeth's crime, forcing him to face reality after the act.