Use Of Imagery In Macbeth

William Shakespeare's Use of Imagery in Macbeth In 16th century literature, primarily plays, it is common practice for authors to employ various forms of imagery in order to draw more emotion from the reader or audience. William Shakespeare, a literary master, makes heavy use of imagery in most of his works. Macbeth, one of his most famous plays, is no exception to this. Macbeth implements numerous examples of imagery and symbolism in order to strengthen the theme and add depth to the underlying subtext within the play. Shakespeare makes heavy use of clothing and the appearance of characters to augment the deception that took place throughout the play. After Macbeth becomes king, the role which he has taken is compared to clothes that simply do not fit right. "New honours come upon him, Like our strange garments, cleave not to their mould, But with the aid of use" (I, iii). Lady Macbeth's advice to Macbeth is, "Look like the innocent flower, but be the serpent under't" (I, v). In this example, Shakespeare utilizes the appearance of the characters to further illustrate
In Act I,Scene iii, Banquo asks the Witches to "look into the seeds of time, And say which grain will grow and which will not." Shakespeare uses the concept of seeds growing as a metaphor for opportunites that will present themselves. This line is then referred to much later in the play. In Act V, Scene ii, Lennox refers to Macbeth and his followers as "weeds". As previously stated, Macbeth is told by Lady Macbeth to look like a flower to conceal the serpent which lies beneath (I, v). Both of these are entities commonly found in nature, the flower representing innocence and the snake representing betrayal. Shakespeare makes other references to animals during the play as well. The sergeant compares the actions of Macbeth and Banquo to an eagle and a lion after their victory in battle. (I,