Blood Imagery in Macbeth

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When reading Macbeth, one might notice the repeated use of the word blood. While it might be thought that this is due to the violent nature of the play, it actually signifies a loss of innocence. This is demonstrated through the treacherous deeds of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, and Shakespeare’s reoccurring theme of the corruptibility of the human mind. By examining these, it can be determined that Shakespeare’s use of blood represents a loss of innocence.
Shakespeare demonstrates a loss of innocence, in particular through the treacherous deeds of the Macbeths. In the beginning of the play, Macbeth is described as a brave and noble hero. However, after the witches’ prophecy, his ambition to become king takes over. The first major act of treachery by the Macbeths is the murder of Duncan. After the murder, Lady Macbeth tells Macbeth to “wash this filthy witness from your hand” (page 45). The “filthy witness” is the blood of Duncan on his hands, which is symbolic of the evil deed. Lady Macbeth is telling him to wash it away to regain a look of innocence. Even though the bloo...

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