Symbolism and Imagery in Macbeth

In William Shakespeare's Macbeth, symbolism and imagery are both widely used in illustrating the overall theme of murder. Throughout the play, Shakespeare depicts various types of symbolism and imagery that leads to the downfall of the protagonist, Macbeth. The contrast of light and dark representing good and evil plays a major role in the plot of the play. Blood symbolizes murder and guilt. The symbol of clothing is particularly used to suggest the hiding of …

…from the "light". Through the blood imagery it is made clear to the audience the mental consequences taking their toll on Macbeth and his wife. Through the clothing imagery, one can see how Macbeth's title was really never his to begin with and how his "borrow'd robes" do not fit. Finally, he wisely applies the imagery of animals throughout the play. Thus, the owl and the raven are animals of the night, which symbolize doom.