Essay About Theme Of Macbeth And Titles Of Thane Of Glamis

Theme Of Macbeth: Fair Is Foul And Foul Is Fair
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Theme of “Fair is Foul and Foul is Fair” in Shakespeares Macbeth
One of the most important themes in Macbeth involves the witches statement in Act 1, Scene1 that “fair is foul and foul is fair.” (Act 1, Scene 1, Line 10) When Macbeth and Banquo first see the weird sisters, Banquo is horrified by their hideous appearances. Conversely, Macbeth immediately began to converse with these universally known evil creatures. After hearing their prophecies, Macbeth considered the witches to be “fair” when in reality their intentions were quite “foul.” Macbeths possession of the titles of Thane of Glamis, Thane of Cawdor and King of Scotland came by foul means. Macbeth became the Thane of Glamis by his father Sinels death; he became Thane of Cawdor when the former thane was executed for treason; and he was ordained King of Scotland after murdering King Duncan. Macbeth seems to have a rulthless way of advancing in life. This theme is further verified by King Duncans statement “Theres no art/ To find the minds construction in the face” (Act 1, Scene 4, Lines 11-12) Although Macbeth has the appearance of the amicable and dutiful host (“fair”), he is secretly plotting Duncans death (“foul”). Furthermore, Lady Macbeths orchestration of the murder exemplifies the twisted atmosphere in Inverness. Both a woman and a host, she should be the model of grace and femininity. She is described, however, as a “fiendlike queen” (Act 5, Scene 6, Line 69) and exhibits a cold, scheming mentality. In addition, the very porter of Inverness likens the place to the dwelling of the devil Beelzebub. This implies that despite its “pleasant seat,” (Act 1, Scene 6, Line 1) Inverness is a sinister and evil place. It is also interesting to note that Macbeth is unable to say a prayer to