Is impt for what it reveals of the two main characters. M’s delay and hesitation prolong the suspense of the coming murder.
Macbeth – why he hesitates
-Fear of consequences of murdering Duncan
-Aware of the dangers of guilt, suffering and divine justice
-Fully aware of his duty of loyalty to his king, kinsman and guest
-Aware of the enormity of the sinful crime he is contemplating
-Momentarily firm with LM
-“will proceed no further in this business”
-Reminds LM of the many honours D has bestowed upon him
-As LM bombards him with bitter accusations, he begins to weaken
-Quickly reconsiders the plan
-Overwhelmed by admiration of wife’s spirit
-Persuaded and encouraged to do the necessary
-New tone of grim confidence
Lady Macbeth
-Test of her shrewd knowledge of how to handle her husband
-Draws upon her spirit and determination to win her husband over
-Not expecting opposition from M initially
-Responds instantly and decisively to crisis when M’s resolve weakens
-Challenging accusation of cowardice
-Powerful expression of deep disappointment and disillusionment
-Suggests he is being “less than a man”
-Attacks his soldierly pride and esteem
-Once M weakens, she resorts to positive, confident encouragement
-Details and arrangements are HER plan, not Macbeth’s
-Confidence and conviction, determination, shrewdness and resourcefulness
Saturday, October 07, 2006;
the end
the end