Macbeth’s Reaction to the Murder of King Duncan in Act 2 Scene 2

not even an ocean could wash it away and he will not be forgiven by God. Lady Macbeth speaks to him in a disrespectful manner.

In a display of irony, Lady Macbeth asserts that "a little water clears us of this deed", but simultaneously attempts to console her husband by stating "my hands are of your colour but I shame to wear a heart so white". However, by implying that Macbeth is cowardly, she undermines her comforting words and mocks him when she says "consider it not so deeply". Macbeth's nervous rambling reveals that he is falling apart, indicating that Lady Macbeth is the dominant partner in their relationship. Despite her husband's impending breakdown, Lady Macbeth remains in control and unaffected by the situation.

Tension grips Macbeth as he recalls the words that plagued him while murdering the king: "Glamis hath murther'd sleep, and therefore Cawdor shall sleep no more." He fears it may be another of the witches' prophecies. The anticipation heightens with a knock at the door, leaving Macbeth and Lady Macbeth on edge, worried someone might have discovered the murder.

Lady Macbeth exhibits mental strength as she returns the daggers to Duncan's grooms while Macbeth falls apart. This would have been controversial in Shakespeare's era where sexual equality had not been attained. As the knocking persists, Lady Macbeth becomes increasingly anxious about the possibility of being caught for their crime. She takes charge of the situation by instructing her husband to their chamber to eliminate any evidence of the murder. Shakespeare skillfully builds tension throughout the scene, releasing it and building it again for a greater impact on the audience towards the conclusion.

Utilizing

dramatic techniques such as irony and indecision enhances the tension and captivates the audience, while also making the characters more realistic. Hence, Act 2 Scene 2 serves as the pivotal moment of the play, as it creates an atmosphere of apprehension, suspense and unease which sets the tone for the rest of the production.