LEC052034. Neha S Remanan. Significance and critical analysis of equivocator in the play Macbeth.

 

1. What is the significance of the reference to the 'equivocator' in Macbeth?

• The reference of equivocator in the play, Macbeth by Shakespeare is represented by mostly all the main characters such as Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, three witches, Malcolm etc.,
• Equivocator is a person who employs the tool of language to mislead others.
• In this play equivocation is a device used by the characters to transmute their vaulting desires to reality.
• Just as the witches prophesied," Fair is foul, and foul is fair", the atmosphere of equivocation is present throughout the play.
• The seed of equivocation implanted in the mind of Macbeth is gradually proceeded to his ultimate tragedy.

2.Critically discuss the significance of the reference to the 'equivocator' in Macbeth?

Draft 1:

• Equivocation is a deliberate use of ambiguous language to mislead others.
• This art of equivocation in evident in the prophecy of the witches as. " Fair is foul, and foul is fair".
• The ambiguous atmosphere and  equivocated dialogues are prevalent throughout the play.
• Macbeth who himself being a equivocator falls in prey for equivocation marks his tragedy.
• Thus, equivocation is one of the chief themes of this play projecting the technique of dramatic irony and ultimate fate of Macbeth in this play.

Draft 2:

• Equivocation is a major theme used in this play envisaging the duplicity hidden and the portraying the difference between the appearance and reality.
• This idea of equivocation is popularly connected to Father Grant's work, The Treatise of Equivocation, which had him prosecuted for the practice and support of equivocation.
• Shakespeare uses the topical issue of Gunpowder plot in various instances of his play, Macbeth.
• Language is a deceitful tool used by many equivocators like Malcolm for the conformity of truthfulness.
• The advent of equivocation proceeds the play from the start of the witches prophecy to the Macbeth wistful comprehension leading to his death.