Manipulation In Macbeth

Words: 1046
Pages: 5

Across the world, appearances are used to conceal realities and truths in order to manipulate others. Artists illustrate this process as well as the true path to truth which characters follow to eventually discover peace. Shakespeare poses Macbeth, Malcolm and Lady Macbeth into roles that take place in the constant process of manipulation and search for truth. In the play Macbeth, Shakespeare reveals that trusting in appearances often leaves an individual vulnerable to manipulation; only those who search for truth attain certainty. Macbeth is a character who hides realities with false appearances so others who trust him become vulnerable, allowing his personal desires to be fulfilled. In the play, Lady Macbeth often instructs Macbeth on concealing …show more content…
He speaks of escaping to Ireland, and the reasoning behind taking different paths when escaping Scotland. Donalbain brings to light that men can’t be trusted because it has been proven to him that they will always ultimately act on their desires and what is underneath their appearances. While the actions of the men make them seem trustworthy, there are always hidden agendas, causing Malcolm to take the path he did. Malcolm himself most literally commands the concealment of his army in the passage, "Let every soldier hew him down a bough
And hear't before him: thereby shall we shadow
The numbers of our host and make discovery" (5.4.6-8). In order to hide his army from Macbeth, Malcolm uses the appearance of leaves and trees in order to sneak up on Macbeth. While this is a literal instance of appearances covering reality, Malcolm is using appearances to conceal his desire to defeat Macbeth. Whether intentions may be interpreted as good or bad, Malcolm also finds it necessary to conceal his true intent with appearances in order to get what he desires. Malcolm also hides his reality in order to protect himself, like when speaking to Macduff. "But I have none. The king-becoming graces, As justice, verity, temp'rance,