apperance vs reality

• The witches in "Macbeth"


  • Embody the theme of appearance versus reality from the outset
  • Appear to Macbeth and Banquo as supernatural beings with prophetic powers
  • Their prophecies are ambiguous and lead to Macbeth's downfall
  • Their appearance as harbingers of Macbeth's fate contrasts with the reality that their predictions are twisted and deceptive
• Macbeth and Lady Macbeth


  • Project a facade of strength and confidence
  • Their inner reality is one of guilt, fear, and moral decay
  • Maintain a facade of normalcy while committing heinous acts, such as regicide, but inwardly they are tormented by their actions
• Banquo's ghost at Macbeth's banquet


  • A powerful example of appearance versus reality
  • While the other guests see an empty seat, Macbeth sees the ghost of his murdered friend
  • The contrast between what others perceive and what Macbeth experiences highlights the widening gulf between appearance and reality in his mind
• The crown


  • A symbol of power and kingship
  • Represents a deceptive appearance of legitimacy in Macbeth's hands
  • Although he gains the crown through regicide, he struggles to maintain his grip on power as reality catches up with appearances
  • The crown becomes a burden rather than a symbol of honor, showcasing the fleeting nature of appearances without substance
• Malcolm's test of Macduff's loyalty


  • Malcolm presents an appearance of moral corruption by claiming to be even more unfit to rule than Macbeth
  • This is a test to gauge Macduff's true intentions
  • Malcolm's appearance as a potential tyrant contrasts with his true character as a rightful heir and a just ruler in waiting
• "Fair is foul, and foul is fair." - Act 1, Scene 1This quote, spoken by the three witches, sets the tone for the entire play, suggesting that appearances can be deceptive.
• "Look like the innocent flower, but be the serpent under ’t." - Act 1, Scene 5Lady Macbeth advises Macbeth to appear welcoming and innocent to their guests while secretly planning their treacherous deeds, illustrating the theme of deception.
• "There’s daggers in men’s smiles." - Act 2, Scene 3This quote by Donalbain highlights the danger of trusting appearances, as even friendly faces may conceal sinister intentions.
• "False face must hide what the false heart doth know." - Act 1, Scene 7Macbeth acknowledges the necessity of hiding his true intentions behind a facade of loyalty and honor, emphasizing the theme of deceit.