Macbeth: “That which hath made them drunk hath made me bold: What hath quench’d them hath given me fire.”
In William Shakespeare’s *Macbeth*, one of the most compelling quotes arises from the ambitious Lady Macbeth as she steels herself for the heinous act of regicide. The full quote reads: “That which hath made them drunk hath made me bold: What hath quench’d them hath given me fire.” This line encapsulates the themes of ambition, moral corruption, and the psychological transformation that accompanies the pursuit of power. In this article, we will delve into the meaning of this quote, the literary devices Shakespeare employs, the historical context of the play, and its resonance in contemporary society.
Contextualizing the Quote
This quote occurs in Act 2, Scene 2, right before Macbeth commits the murder of King Duncan. Lady Macbeth has drugged the guards to facilitate the murder, and as they lay incapacitated, she expresses how the alcohol that has rendered them “drunk” has emboldened her. The duality of her statement reveals a transformation: while the inebriation of the guards has subdued them, it has ignited a fervor within her. This boldness represents her ambition and determination but also foreshadows the unraveling of both her and Macbeth’s psyches as they grapple with the consequences of their actions.
Literary Devices and Language
Shakespeare’s use of contrasting imagery in this quote is particularly striking. The metaphor of drunkenness as a catalyst for Lady Macbeth’s boldness juxtaposes the ideas of intoxication and fiery ambition. The use of the word “fire” suggests not just passion but also destruction—a duality that is central to the themes of the play. Furthermore, the rhythmic quality of the line, with its deliberate pacing, mirrors Lady Macbeth’s internal conflict, enhancing the tension as she prepares to embark on a path of moral decline.
Historical Context
Written in the early 17th century, *Macbeth* reflects the societal anxieties of Shakespeare’s time, particularly concerning power, gender roles, and the divine right of kings. The play is steeped in the political turmoil of Scotland and the English monarchy, with the Gunpowder Plot of 1605 serving as a backdrop to the themes of treachery and ambition. Lady Macbeth’s assertion of boldness in the face of murder challenges the traditional gender norms of the era, where women were often seen as passive. Her character embodies a transgression of societal expectations, making her one of the most complex female figures in Shakespeare’s works.
Themes of Ambition and Guilt
The quote also highlights the overarching themes of ambition and guilt that permeate *Macbeth*. Lady Macbeth’s initial boldness contrasts sharply with the guilt that later consumes both her and her husband. The fire she speaks of will soon turn into a flame of madness, illustrating how unchecked ambition can lead to self-destruction. This transformation is not only a personal tragedy but also a comment on the broader consequences of moral corruption—a theme that resonates throughout Shakespeare’s oeuvre.
Modern Interpretations
In contemporary contexts, this quote has been interpreted in various ways, often reflecting on the nature of ambition and the ethical dilemmas that accompany it. The idea that ambition can empower individuals while simultaneously leading to their downfall is a recurrent theme in modern literature, film, and even business culture. Lady Macbeth’s struggle can be seen as a cautionary tale about the perils of overreaching ambition and the psychological toll it can take.
Relevance to Contemporary Life
The relevance of Lady Macbeth’s words transcends time, resonating with individuals today who grapple with the complexities of ambition in a competitive world. Whether in professional settings, personal relationships, or societal expectations, the tension between boldness and moral integrity remains a salient issue. Her cry for fire can be interpreted as a desire for empowerment, yet it serves as a reminder that the pursuit of power can lead to destructive consequences.
Conclusion
Lady Macbeth’s declaration, “That which hath made them drunk hath made me bold: What hath quench’d them hath given me fire,” is a profound reflection on ambition, gender roles, and the psychological complexities of power. Shakespeare’s use of contrasting imagery and rhythmic language captures the essence of a character who embodies both strength and vulnerability. As we explore the depths of her ambition and the ensuing chaos, we are reminded of the timeless nature of these themes—an invitation to reflect on our own ambitions and the potential consequences they may carry. In this way, *Macbeth* remains as relevant today as it was in Shakespeare’s time, prompting us to question the fires we ignite in our own lives.
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Selected Text Explanation
Passage Summary
In this pivotal passage from Shakespeare's "Macbeth," Lady Macbeth and Macbeth grapple with the aftermath of regicide—the murder of King Duncan. Lady Macbeth, emboldened by the intoxicating effects of alcohol and her own ruthless ambition, expresses a chilling confidence as she prepares for the crime. The imagery of night and death underscores the moral darkness enveloping their actions, as she notes the stark contrast between the drunken guards and her own sharpened resolve.
As Macbeth enters, the tension escalates; he reveals that he has carried out the deed but is immediately plagued by guilt and paranoia. His unease manifests in his inability to utter “Amen,” highlighting a profound spiritual and psychological crisis. Lady Macbeth, attempting to suppress the burgeoning guilt that threatens to consume them both, urges him not to dwell on their actions, fearing that such contemplation will lead to madness.
The themes of ambition, guilt, and the psychological consequences of their heinous act are central to this exchange. Lady Macbeth's initial boldness juxtaposes Macbeth's spiraling anxiety, illustrating the complexities of their characters and the unraveling of their moral compass. The passage encapsulates the essence of a tragedy rooted in human ambition, illustrating how the pursuit of power can lead to profound inner turmoil and existential dread. It foreshadows the couple's inevitable descent into madness, establishing the groundwork for the moral and psychological unraveling that follows throughout the play.
Original Passage
Select any part of the passage to receive an explanation:
LADY MACBETH.
That which hath made them drunk hath made me bold:
What hath quench'd them hath given me fire.—Hark!—Peace!
It was the owl that shriek'd, the fatal bellman,
Which gives the stern'st good night. He is about it.
The doors are open; and the surfeited grooms
Do mock their charge with snores: I have drugg'd their possets,
That death and nature do contend about them,
Whether they live or die.
MACBETH.
[[Within.] ] Who's there?—what, ho!
LADY MACBETH.
Alack! I am afraid they have awak'd,
And 'tis not done. Th' attempt and not the deed
Confounds us.—Hark!—I laid their daggers ready;
He could not miss 'em.—Had he not resembled
My father as he slept, I had done't.—My husband!
Enter Macbeth. .
MACBETH.
I have done the deed.—Didst thou not hear a noise?
LADY MACBETH.
I heard the owl scream and the crickets cry.
Did not you speak?
MACBETH.
When?
LADY MACBETH.
Now.
MACBETH.
As I descended?
LADY MACBETH.
Ay.
MACBETH.
Hark!—Who lies i' th' second chamber?
LADY MACBETH.
Donalbain.
MACBETH.
This is a sorry sight.
[[Looking on his hands.] ]
LADY MACBETH.
A foolish thought, to say a sorry sight.
MACBETH.
There's one did laugh in's sleep, and one cried,
"Murder!"
That they did wake each other: I stood and heard them.
But they did say their prayers, and address'd them
Again to sleep.
LADY MACBETH.
There are two lodg'd together.
MACBETH.
One cried, "God bless us!" and, "Amen," the other,
As they had seen me with these hangman's hands.
List'ning their fear, I could not say "Amen,"
When they did say, "God bless us."
LADY MACBETH.
Consider it not so deeply.
MACBETH.
But wherefore could not I pronounce "Amen"?
I had most need of blessing, and "Amen"
Stuck in my throat.
LADY MACBETH.
These deeds must not be thought
After these ways; so, it will make us mad.
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