Macbeth's Soliloquy and Moral Dilemma

In this crucial scene, Macbeth grapples with his conscience as he considers assassinating King Duncan. His famous soliloquy reveals his inner turmoil and the potential consequences of his actions.

Quote: "If it were done when 'tis done, then 'twere well / It were done quickly."

Macbeth recognizes the gravity of the situation, acknowledging that killing Duncan would have far-reaching implications. He lists several reasons why he should not commit the murder:

1. Duncan is his kinsman and subject
2. As host, he should protect Duncan, not harm him
3. Duncan has been a virtuous and humble ruler
4. The act would likely lead to divine retribution

Highlight: Macbeth's soliloquy in Act 1 Scene 7 is a prime example of his internal struggle between ambition and moral duty.

Macbeth concludes that his only motivation for the deed is "vaulting ambition," foreshadowing the destructive nature of unchecked ambition throughout the play.

Vocabulary: Soliloquy - A dramatic device in which a character speaks their thoughts aloud, usually when alone on stage.

The Plan and Its Implications

As Lady Macbeth successfully persuades Macbeth to proceed with the assassination, they discuss the details of their plan. This section of Act 1 Scene 7 sets the stage for the upcoming murder and its consequences.

Lady Macbeth outlines the steps of their scheme:

1. Get Duncan's chamberlains drunk
2. Frame them for the murder by planting bloody daggers on them
3. Carry out the assassination while Duncan sleeps

Highlight: The meticulous planning in this scene contrasts with the chaos that ensues after the murder, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of their actions.

The scene concludes with Macbeth's newfound resolve, impressed by his wife's cunning and determination. However, this moment marks the beginning of their descent into guilt, paranoia, and ultimately, tragedy.

Quote: "I am settled, and bend up / Each corporal agent to this terrible feat."

This final exchange between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth sets the stage for the pivotal events to come, highlighting the themes of ambition, guilt, and the corrupting influence of power that permeate the play.

Lady Macbeth's Manipulation and Persuasion

As Macbeth expresses doubts about the assassination plot, Lady Macbeth employs various manipulative tactics to convince him to follow through with their plan.

Quote: "Art thou afeard / To be the same in thine own act and valour, / As thou art in desire?"

Lady Macbeth questions Macbeth's masculinity and courage, implying that backing out of the plan would make him a coward. She uses several rhetorical strategies to persuade him:

1. Comparing him to a drunk who makes grand plans but lacks follow-through
2. Accusing him of being less of a man for hesitating
3. Presenting a shocking hypothetical scenario to demonstrate her own resolve

Example: Lady Macbeth claims she would dash out her own baby's brains if she had sworn to do so, emphasizing her commitment to their cause.

Her manipulative techniques highlight the theme of gender roles and expectations in the play, as she pushes Macbeth to prove his masculinity through violence.

Definition: Emasculation - The act of making a man feel less masculine or depriving him of his male role or identity.