One definition of “appearance” is: “An outward aspect of
somebody or something that creates a particular impression.” Almost contradictory is the
definition of “reality”: “Actual being or existence, as opposed to an imaginary,
idealized, or false nature.” A prominent theme in Shakespeare’s play Macbeth is the
contrast between appearance and reality. This theme is interlaced through each act of
the play.
The way people act on the outside and who they
really are on the inside may be two totally different things. Some may change because
they feel they don't fit in. Others pretend to be something they truly aren't. No
matter which way you look at it, if you try to act like someone your not, the truth will
always appear in the end. That is exactly what happened in William Shakespeare's play,
MacBeth.
Banquo, MacBeth, and Lady MacBeth each project an
image, but as time
passes. The realities of their true personalities begin to emerge.
As
an honorable
man, Banqou tends to hold back his
in
order not to offend others around him. At one point in the play,
Banqou and MacBeth find themselves in the presence of three weird sisters who make three
absurd predictions. MacBeth leans toward believing them while Banqou says,
"And
oftentimes, to win us to do our harm, the instruments of darkness
tells us truths, win us with honest trifles, to betray's in deepest consequence". (Act
I,Scene 3) A thoughtful yet skeptical Banquo speaks his words here very carefully to
MacBeth in order to remain honorable. He doesn't want to come right out and tell
MacBeth to be cautious in his actions, so he tries to soften his words so that MacBeth
might contemplate his future movements. However, MacBeth does not take heed of Banquo's
warnings. Because of the witch's predictions and his impatience, MacBeth kills in order
to get what he expects is coming to him.
When Banquo takes time to
contemplate what has been going on, he turns his thoughts to MacBeth. He expresses his
feelings about the situation in Act II, Scene 1. Banqou feels that MacBeth might have
something to do with the murders,but he never stands up for his thoughts or listens to
his conscience until MacBeth comes to him one day. When MacBeth asks to talk privately
to Banquo,
Banquo states; " So I lose none in seeking to augment it,
but still keep my bosom franchised and allegiances clear, I shall be counseled." (Act
III, Scene 1) Banquo means that he will talk to MacBeth, just as long as MacBeth knows
that he is loyal to the King. This is the only time that Banquo sets his foot down
against others to stand up for his morals.
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