“To show unfelt sorrow is an office the false man does easy”

Cards (8)

  • reflects on the deceitful nature of appearances, showing sorrow without truly feeling it is a skill that a dishonest person can easily perform.
  • “unfelt sorrow” implies that emotional expression can be feigned, underscoring the theme of appearance versus reality
  • Malcolm recognises that Macbeth, in his ambition and guilt, may be capable of faking remorse to manipulate others.
  • a tendency that marks Macbeth as untrustworthy and morally corrupt.
  • pointing out how easily a “false man” can pretend to feel sorrow, he emphasises the contrast between false emotions and the genuine integrity required of a true leader
  • highlights the moral integrity needed for true kingship.
  • he is cautious, aware that a ruler must be authentic in their emotions and actions, as any pretence of sorrow would be a sign of weakness or manipulation.
  • his recognition of false sorrow positions him as a character grounded in authenticity, distinguishing him from Macbeth’s deceitful rise to power.