The Symbol of Blood in Macbeth

Macbeth, written by William Shakespeare, is a tragedy in which Macbeth plots to kill everyone that gets in his way. In this play the symbol of blood is portrayed often and with different meanings. This symbol is developed throughout the play until it becomes the dominating theme. It's used to symbolize honor, treason, and guilt. All of these images of blood help develop the atmosphere and scene and contribute to the over all drama of …

…he says "It is the bloody business which informs thus", he could not get the courage to say murder after he had killed Duncan, so he says this instead. As can be seen, throughout the play, Shakespeare effectively uses blood imagery to create the theme of treason, guilt, and honor. It has been proved that the symbol of blood has many different meanings that can be attributed to it throughout the course of this play.