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Essay / The Use of Rhetorical Strategies in Shakespeare's Macbeth
Table of ContentsPathosEthosLogosKairosShakespeare's Macbeth is a literary masterpiece that uses various rhetorical strategies to convey its themes and messages. The play is the tragic story of a Scottish nobleman, Macbeth, who is driven by ambition to commit heinous acts that will ultimately lead to his downfall. This essay analyzes the use of ethos, pathos, logos, and kairos in Macbeth and how these rhetorical strategies contribute to the overall message of the play. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essayPathosFirst of all, pathos is one of the most important rhetorical strategies used in Macbeth. The play is full of emotional appeals that evoke feelings of pity, fear, and sadness in the audience. One of the most significant examples of pathos in the play is Lady Macbeth's soliloquy in Act 5, where she expresses remorse for her actions. She says: "Out, damn place! Out, I say! One, two, well, then it's time to do it. Hell is troubled!" (Act 5, scene 1). This scene creates a feeling of sympathy for Lady Macbeth as she begins to realize the consequences of her actions. The use of pathos in Macbeth is very effective in evoking the audience's emotions and reinforcing the play's themes of guilt, remorse, and the consequences of one's actions. Ethos Second, ethos is another rhetorical strategy used in Macbeth. The characters in the play establish their credibility and reputation through their actions and speeches. For example, Macbeth is initially portrayed as a loyal and courageous soldier who has earned the trust and respect of King Duncan. However, his descent into madness and tyranny undermines his credibility and reputation. Lady Macbeth is also portrayed as a strong-willed and ambitious woman, willing to do whatever it takes to achieve her goals. However, his actions ultimately lead to his downfall. The use of ethos in Macbeth is significant in that it highlights the importance of reputation and credibility in shaping the actions of individuals.LogosThird, logos are a rhetorical strategy used to appeal to the meaning of the logic and reasoning of the audience. Macbeth uses various logical appeals that advance the plot and develop the characters. For example, Macbeth's decision to kill King Duncan is motivated by his ambition to become king. He believes that the only way to achieve his goal is to remove all obstacles that stand in his way. This decision ultimately leads to his downfall, highlighting the dangers of unchecked ambition. The use of logos in Macbeth is effective in engaging the audience's intellect and reinforcing the play's themes of ambition, power, and the dangers of uncontrolled desire. Kairos Finally, the concept of kairos, or timing, is another rhetorical strategy used in Macbeth. The events of the play occur at a particular time and place, which has a significant impact on the plot and the actions of the characters. For example, the witches' prophecy that Macbeth will become king is an important turning point in the play. This prophecy sets off a series of events that will ultimately lead to Macbeth's downfall. The use of kairos in Macbeth is essential to emphasize the role of timing in shaping individuals' actions and the consequences that follow. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay In conclusion, Macbeth is a..