Macbeth Character Quotes Flashcards

Study Notes

Key Themes and Quotes

Supernatural Influence
- "Fair is foul, and foul is fair." - Witches set an ominous tone, suggesting moral ambiguity and foreshadowing dark events.
Ambition and Desire
- "Let not light see my black and deep desires." - Macbeth’s internal conflict after Duncan names Malcolm as heir, showcasing his ambition to prevent Malcolm from ascending the throne.
Gender Roles and Power
- "Yet do I fear thy nature; it is too full of the milk of human kindness." - Lady Macbeth critiques Macbeth's kindness, fearing it will hinder their violent plans.
Deception
- "Look like the innocent flower, but be the serpent under't." - Lady Macbeth advises Macbeth to conceal his intentions, highlighting themes of appearance versus reality.
Quest for Cruelty
- "Come, you spirits... unsex me here..." - Lady Macbeth calls upon supernatural forces to strip her of femininity and fill her with malevolence to commit murder.
Courage and Determination
- "But screw your courage to the sticking-place, and we'll not fail." - Lady Macbeth motivates Macbeth, emphasizing the need for resolute courage before the murder.
Guilt and Identity
- "False face must hide what false heart doth know." - Macbeth reconciles with his decision to kill Duncan, recognizing the necessity of deceit in concealing his true feelings.
Parental Connection and Regret
- "Had he not resembled my father as he slept, I had done't." - Lady Macbeth reveals her hesitation to kill Duncan, indicating personal conflict stemming from familial likeness.
Consequences of Murder
- "What hands are here?... Will all great Neptune's ocean wash this blood clean from my hand?" - Macbeth's horror at his actions illustrates overwhelming guilt and the permanence of his crime.
Hallucinations and Inner Turmoil
- "Is this a dagger which I see before me, the handle toward my hand?" - Macbeth’s vision of the dagger symbolizes his descent into madness and moral decay before the murder.
Suspicion and Betrayal
- "Thou hast it now: King, Cawdor, Glamis... I fear thou play'dst most foully for't." - Banquo's suspicion of Macbeth’s means to power foreshadows the theme of betrayal.
Moral Dilemma
- "He's here in double trust..." - Macbeth lists his reasons against killing Duncan, revealing his understanding of moral obligations and the weight of betrayal.
Attempt to Avert Guilt
- "A little water clears us of this deed." - Lady Macbeth’s dismissive approach to their crime indicates her initial belief that guilt can be easily absolved, contrasting with Macbeth's deep remorse.

Description

Test your knowledge of key character quotes from Shakespeare's Macbeth through these engaging flashcards. Each card provides a quote, its source, and its significance to the play, enhancing your understanding of the themes and characters involved.