Fair is foul, and foul is fair.¡± (1.1.11) Things that seem to be good can be evil, and things that seem to be evil can be good at the same time. This paradox is considered to be the main theme of the Shakespearean play, Macbeth. The theme of deception is seen in the play through the characters of Lady Macbeth, Macbeth and Lennox.
Firstly, the theme of deception is found in the character of Lady Macbeth. Lady Macbeth resolves to have Duncan killed in order to takeover the throne. When Macbeth arrives with the news that Duncan will visit his castle, Lady Macbeth says, ¡°O, never shall sun that morrow see!¡±(1.5.67-68). She knows Duncan will never get to see the sun again because he is going to be killed that night. She is filled with greed and is willing to do anything to accomplish her goals, even assassinate her King. Her intense ambition allows her to be evil and malicious. In the meantime, Lady Macbeth hides her dark intention and appears to be very welcoming as soon as she hears that King Duncan and his entourage are approaching Macbeth¡¯s castle. Lady Macbeth tries to look loyal and humble when she graciously greets Duncan. This can be clearly seen from her comment: ¡°All our service in every point twice done,
and then done double, were poor and single business to contend against those honours deep and broad where with your Majesty loads our house.¡±(1.6.17-21). She looks and acts pure, but also hides her evil thoughts. This reveals exactly how manipulative and deceptive she can be. In addition, Duncan¡¯s comment to Lady Macbeth, ¡°Fair and noble hostess, we are your guest to-night.¡±(1.6.28-29), clearly demonstrates that Duncan is very impressed with Lady Macbeth¡¯s loyal attitude towards him, so that he reposes absolute trust in her. He is mistaken, however, because the fair hostess turns out to be the wicked woman who kills her noble guest. Lady Macbeth has indeed succeeded in deceiving Duncan in order to commit a perfect murder.
Many characters such as Lady Macbeth, Macbeth, and Lennox constantly demonstrate the theme of deception throughout the play. They seem to be good in their appearance, but in reality, they might have dark secrets that they want to hide from everyone else. People sometimes act dissimilar to the reality and pretend to be someone else for their own benefit. Accordingly, what people see on the outside is not always what truly it is in reality.
Not only evil characters such as Macbeth and Lady Macbeth deceive others, but Lennox as well displays false loyalty to Macbeth. Lennox tells another Lord that Macbeth is responsible for the murders of Duncan and Banquo with an unsparing sarcasm. Along with the satirical chat,
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