Symbols Used In Macbeth

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William Shakespeare wrote many works filled with quotes and soliloquies that have become very famous today. His writing is full of literary devices such as imagery and clever word choice. One of the most notable literary devices that Shakespeare used in all of his works was symbolism. The symbolism that he used in his plays gives the audience a clear image that reveals Shakespeare’s life, the time period he lived in, and the type of message he was trying to reveal. Shakespeare’s writing would not be complete without his use of symbolism, which is used throughout all of his works. Symbols can be used to signify ideas such as courage, guilt and restoration. Throughout the play Macbeth, William Shakespeare uses the symbol of blood to demonstrate many different concepts.…show more content…
Beginning very early in the play, blood symbolizes the bravery of the protagonist, Macbeth. This courage is predominant during his battle between the Scottish army and the Norwegian invaders. After the war has ended, Macbeth is named the “Thane of Cawdor” and is known as “Brave Macbeth” to everyone, even King Duncan. His bravery and success in battle has earned him respect and a new title. A quote that describes Macbeth’s bravery is when Duncan sees the injured captain and asks: “What bloody man is that?” (1.2.1). The captain replies saying that Macbeth’s sword “smoked with bloody execution” (1.2.20). The captain goes on to describe the warm blood of the enemy that drips from Macbeth’s sword (1.2.25). The symbol of blood that is seen during Macbeth’s heroic victories over Macdonwald and the King of Norway, enriches the idea of Macbeth being a brave fighter who fought a valiant battle for his country. The blood at the beginning of the play is a representation of honour and symbolizes

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