Act 2

• In Act 2 of "Macbeth," his character undergoes a significant transformation as he grapples with the consequences of his ambition and the act of murder. Here are the key points regarding his presentation in this act:
• 1. Guilt and Paranoia: After killing King Duncan, Macbeth is immediately consumed by guilt and paranoia. He hears voices saying, "Macbeth does murder sleep," indicating his realization that he has destroyed his own peace of mind.
• 2. Descent into Madness: Macbeth's mental state deteriorates as he becomes increasingly unstable. He is haunted by visions, such as the famous hallucination of the dagger leading him to Duncan's chamber, which symbolizes his inner turmoil and conflict.
• 3. Manipulation: He begins to take charge of the situation, urging Lady Macbeth to wash the blood from her hands and to not dwell on their crime. This shows a shift in his character, as he moves from being hesitant to taking decisive action.
• 4. Isolation: As the act progresses, Macbeth becomes more isolated in his guilt and fear. His relationship with Lady Macbeth starts to strain as he begins to carry the burden of their actions alone.
• Overall, Act 2 presents Macbeth as a character who is deeply affected by his actions, showcasing his internal conflict, guilt, and the beginning of his moral decline.