Act 2

• Planning Duncan's Murder: Lady Macbeth is instrumental in planning King Duncan's murder. She prepares the scene and ensures that Macbeth follows through with the plan.
• Encouraging Macbeth: After Macbeth hesitates to kill Duncan, Lady Macbeth questions his bravery and commitment, pushing him to go through with the murder. She tells him that he must "screw his courage to the sticking place."
• Calmness After the Murder: After Macbeth kills Duncan, Lady Macbeth remains composed and tries to calm him down. She takes charge, saying that a little water will clear them of their guilt, indicating her initial belief that they can easily wash away their crime.
• Symbolism of Blood: Blood becomes a significant symbol in this act. Lady Macbeth's insistence that they can simply wash their hands of the blood reflects her initial confidence in their ability to escape the consequences of their actions.
• Foreshadowing Guilt: Although she appears strong, her actions foreshadow the guilt and madness that will later consume her, as she begins to underestimate the psychological impact of their deeds.