The Shakespearian play Macbeth has many soliloquies in it. This essay will focus on three of them. A soliloquy is a dramatic or literary form of discourse in which a character talks to him or herself or reveals his or her thoughts without addressing a listener. Soliloquies are used to advance the plot of the play or story, create atmosphere, and reveal character. The following will explain some of the soliloquies from Macbeth.
Macbeth’s first soliloquy of the play (1.7.1-29) helps to advance the plot and reveal his character. Macbeth talks about his inner most thoughts on the assassination of Duncan. He says that if he could guarantee that no further complications would arise from the murder then he would do it very quickly. However Macbeth also says, “He\'s here in double trust; First, as I am his kinsman and his subject.” This implies that Macbeth would feel very guilty about killing Duncan who would not suspect a thing because he trusts Macbeth. At this stage of the play Macbeth still has guilt and normal human feelings, this soliloquy helps show this. This soliloquy also advances the plot. It shows that Macbeth is willing to pursue his “vaulting ambition” and take a risk at trying to kill Duncan. This soliloquy acts as a corner stone, and points the play in a direction towards the murder of Duncan.
Macbeth’s second soliloquy (2.1.33-61) also helps to advance the plot, reveal character, and creates a dark ominous atmosphere. This soliloquy takes place after Macbeth has agreed to kill Duncan and is getting ready for the murder. This soliloquy shows that Macbeth is still wondering if he should commit the murder of Duncan. The introduction of Macbeth’s tormenting imagination happens in this part of the play, (Macbeth’s imagination causes many of his problems later in the play). Macbeth imagines a bloody dagger in front of him, and this dagger adds to Macbeth’s anxiety. Macbeth’s soliloquy also helps to create a dark atmosphere; he talks about satanic and evil things like the goddess of witches Hecate. The plot is advanced when Macbeth hears the bell ring and knows it is time to kill Duncan.
Macbeth’s third soliloquy (3.1.47-71) reveals new characteristics in Macbeth and advances the plot. Macbeth no longer feels guilt or any human emotions; he acts out of hate, panic, and vaulting ambition. All Macbeth now cares about is being king, and being safe as king. His quote, “To be thus is nothing; But to be safely thus.”(3.1. 47-49) proves that now he wants to insure his kingship is safe. Macbeth’s paranoia of being dethroned leads him to plan the murder of Banquo. The soliloquy ends with the murder of Banquo planed and ready to be executed.
The soliloquies in Macbeth all have a purpose and greatly enhance the play. They forward the plot and help the audience (or readers) get a glimpse inside the characters mind. The soliloquies in Macbeth were made to explain the play from the character’s perspective. Macbeth’s first three soliloquies show what Macbeth thinks, and how he changes over the course of the play. The play Macbeth would truly not be complete without the soliloquies.
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