Symbolism in Macbeth: Dagger, Ghosts, and Threes

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Throughout the play "Macbeth" there have been many symbols that have been proven to be significant throughout the play. Of the many I will discuss the importance of The number three, the dagger, and Banquo's ghost.They are all always lingering in the play but not expressed in literal terms. A symbol is using an object or action that means something more than its literal meaning These symbols role in "Macbeth" are to provide a greater meaning to the play. Shakespeare has been known for creating plays that are enjoyable to read, the language is not so difficult once you are familiar with it. The symbols in the play, are significant because they make it possible for readers to interpret to their understanding, and still understand the meaning of the play.These three symbols each have their own meanings that I will further discuss. Their purpose is to let readers stay interested, and to figure out what they represent. The first symbol I will discuss will be the the number three. The number three is used along the play. The play opens up with the Three Witches, wishing to speak to Macbeth. In Act 1, scene three they finally come in encounter with Macbeth and his kin Banquo.Upon meeting him they tell him his prophecy,Which is told is three parts. They say "First Witch: All hail, Macbeth! hail to thee, thane of Glamis!,Second Witch: All hail, Macbeth, hail to thee, thane of Cawdor!, Third Witch :All hail, Macbeth, thou shalt be king hereafter!"(I,iii,50-53). The first part just simply tells what he is right now, thane of Glamis. Then the second witch says hail thane of Cawdor. This is an example of dramatic irony because the readers already knew that he was Thane of Cawdor. As the reader, we have already found out that Macbeth wil... ... middle of paper ... ... filled with achievements, Macbeth blanked out.All he thought about was killing the king.When he tried to console his wife, she encouraged him to kill and take the power said to be his. Lady Macbeth called her husband a coward for not standing for what is his.She claims that he is not man enough. Lady Macbeth is commonly seen as being the reason that Macbeth changed his mind to actually kill Duncan. Macbeth changes from hero to villain to tyrant because of ambition.His determination gets out hand. In Act 4, Macbeth states that he will not listen to anyone anymore, but do whatever it is that his mind tells him to do. It is said after the apparitions have spoken to him, At this point Macbeth is heartless and has no emotions. He says "Unless the deed go with it; from this moment,The very firstlings of my heart shall be,The firstlings of my hand." (IV,i 161-165).

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