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Macbeth's Soliloquy

            
             In act two scene one Macbeth gives a soliloquy that greatly expresses his feelings about the assignation of Duncan. Through out the soliloquy it seems like Macbeth jumps in and out or reality. Being consumed with the need for power, Macbeth is able to commit an unspeakable act. .
             In the beginning of the soliloquy Macbeth quotes "Or art though but a dagger of the mind, a false creation, proceeding from the heat oppressed brain" (2.1.37-39). This remark reveals to us how deeply troubled the Thane really is. Even at this late in the game he still seems to be having second thoughts on going trough with the murder. This tells us a great deal about the turmoil that is going on in the Thane's conscience. Even at this late stage he is still having second thoughts. Macbeth acts heated, lawless and unstable as he inquires the reality of the dagger that is tempting him to Duncan's chamber (O"Brien 67).
             During the second part of the speech Macbeth addresses what really is on his mind: the gory feat he is going to commit. You begin to notice at this point that he is serious about his actions. "There's no such thing; it is the bloody business which informs, thus to mine eyes" (2.1.47-49). Macbeth is about to make the final decision to kill the king. The reader must notice at this point that he is one with his mind at this point. He knows exactly what he is about to do. His determination to forgo this act is greater than the fear swelling inside of him, however, one begins to feel he is oblivious the to the terrible nature of the act. Shakespeare beings to use imagery of darkness to hide Macbeth's immoral thoughts. (O"Brien 69). "Nature seems dead, and wicked dreams abuse the curtained sleep" (2.1.50-51). This comment provides evidence that the Thane is not yet entirely fraudulent. He is very aware of what he is about to do - and the poetic way in which he describes night (and the evil deeds associated with darkness) reminds us that Macbeth was once a valiant soldier, an honorable Thane and kinsman (O"Brien 70).


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