How Does Shakespeare Use Blood Imagery In Macbeth

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Shakespeare’s use of blood imagery throughout Macbeth works to develop the theme as well as intensify the atmosphere of the play. One example of this is how Shakespeare uses blood on Lady Macbeth’s hands to signify her ongoing guilt following Duncan’s murder. As stated by Caroline Spurgeon, a credited author and expert at analyzing Shakespeare, “The feeling of fear, horror and pain is increased by the constant and recurring images of blood;” (334). Towards the beginning of the play, shortly after the murder of Duncan, Lady Macbeth says “A little water clears us of this deed/How easy is it, then!” (2.2.65-66). This shows that at first, Lady Macbeth feels no guilt after murdering Duncan. By implying that the murder can be forgotten just as soon