Questions and Answers
Who is the speaker of the phrase 'why do you dress me in borrowed robes?'
Macbeth
What does Banquo imply when he says, 'New honors come upon him like our strange garments cleave not to their mold but with the aid of use'?
Macbeth is uncomfortable with his new title and needs help from friends.
What attitude does Macbeth express regarding his new title in the line 'He hath honored me of late, and I have bought golden opinions from all sorts of people which will be worn now in their newest gloss & not cast aside so soon'?
Macbeth wants them to be happy with the new title.
What does Macduff mean by 'Lest our old robes sit easier than our new'?
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What does the phrase 'Giants robes upon a dwarfish thief' suggest?
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Study Notes
Clothing Imagery in Macbeth
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"Why do you dress me in borrowed robes?" reveals Macbeth's confusion over receiving the title of Thane of Cawdor, questioning the legitimacy of his honor since he is still alive.
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Banquo's observation that "New honors come upon him like our strange garments cleave not to their mold but with the aid of use" suggests that Macbeth is struggling to adapt to his new title, implying he needs support from his friends to find comfort in his new role.
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Macbeth states, "He hath honored me of late, and I have bought golden opinions from all sorts of people which will be worn now in their newest gloss & not cast aside so soon," emphasizing the importance of maintaining the respect he has earned and valuing his new title.
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Macduff's remark, "Lest our old robes sit easier than our new," indicates his discomfort with Macbeth's kingship, suggesting that their previous loyalty to Duncan felt more natural and fitting than their allegiance to Macbeth.
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The phrase "Giants robes upon a dwarfish thief" illustrates the disparity between Macbeth’s stolen kingship and the rightful, noble reign of Duncan, emphasizing Macbeth’s inadequacy to fulfill the responsibilities of the throne.
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Description
Explore the rich symbolism of clothing in Shakespeare's Macbeth through these flashcards. Each card features key quotes and definitions that analyze the significance of dress and identity in the play. Perfect for students studying this classic tragedy.
