Appereance vs. Reality- Act 3

Appereance v.s Reality

(Sleep-Motif)

“Who wear our health but sickly in his life, which in his death were perfect.” (Act 3, Scene 1, p.44, line 107)

Macbeth states that by having Banquo dead, it would make him a much happier man. Thus, showing us that he portrays a false image of caring for Banquo when in reality Macbeth wants him dead.

‘’(...) Whom we, to gain our peace, have sent to peace, than on the torture of the mind to lie in restless ecstasy. Ducan is in his grave; After life’s fitful fever he sleeps well.’’ (Act 3, Scene 2, line 20, p. 47)

Macbeth can’t sleep well compared to Duncan because he is dead in his grave.

“(...) Were the graced person of our Banquo present- Who may I rather challenge for unkindness than pity for mischance!” (Act 3, Scene 4, p.52, line 41-44)

Macbeth shows his guests his concern for Banquo missing, but in reality he sent murderers (hitman) to kill him and Fleance.

“ (...) And make our faces vizards to our hearts, disguising what they are.”  (Act 3, Scene 2, p.47, line 34).

Macbeth warns that him and Lady Macbeth are in a fragile situation. He tells her that they have to make sure to flatter him and to hide their feelings to kill Banquo.

“(...) ‘Tis safer to be that which we destroy than by destruction dwell in doubtful joy.”

Lady Macbeth always presented herself as a strong and an unafraid woman. Her she presents her true self but stating how it it better to be the one murdered than to be the killer tormented by anxiety.