In Macbeth, clothing illustrates the reality of the positions of power and respect. A core theme in Macbeth is the difference between reality and imagination. This line between reality and imagination is blurry to most of the characters within the story, but subtle use of clothing imagery make it possible for the reader to see the line. One of the factors that makes this distinction so unclear is that Macbeth 's imagination becomes reality. In order to come to this conclusion it is important that the distinction be made clear between when what Macbeth believes to be true and what actual is the reality at that time. Shakespeare 's use of clothing helps the reader distinguish between reality and the imagination of the characters. Clothing imagery
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Therefore, when Macbeth is preformed and not just read it would be important for deliberate thought to be given to the wardrobes of the actors. While reading, one has more time to dwell on and reread the nuances of reality and imagination. However, when watching the play, it is important that these clues be given through visual representation. These visual representations could include clues such as color: using whites versus black to distinguish between the pure and the impure. Examples of this distinction in the text include the the description of Duncan 's skin as “silver” and Macbeth being described as “black” (II.3.110, IV.3.52). Here it is seen that color plays an important role with clothing to distinguish between the pure and the impure, reality and imagination. Another visual representation is the use of kingly garments. The important distinction here is between kingly robes rightly earned and robes unjustly earned. This can be distinguished can be made through lighting as well as the comments and opinions of the other characters in the scene. These distinctions between reality and imagination (and consequently pure and impure) are crucial to understanding the motives and mindset of Macbeth as well as Lady Macbeth. In order to make these differences clearer to the audience and readers, Shakespeare makes use of clothing imagery and the characters responses to
Therefore, when Macbeth is preformed and not just read it would be important for deliberate thought to be given to the wardrobes of the actors. While reading, one has more time to dwell on and reread the nuances of reality and imagination. However, when watching the play, it is important that these clues be given through visual representation. These visual representations could include clues such as color: using whites versus black to distinguish between the pure and the impure. Examples of this distinction in the text include the the description of Duncan 's skin as “silver” and Macbeth being described as “black” (II.3.110, IV.3.52). Here it is seen that color plays an important role with clothing to distinguish between the pure and the impure, reality and imagination. Another visual representation is the use of kingly garments. The important distinction here is between kingly robes rightly earned and robes unjustly earned. This can be distinguished can be made through lighting as well as the comments and opinions of the other characters in the scene. These distinctions between reality and imagination (and consequently pure and impure) are crucial to understanding the motives and mindset of Macbeth as well as Lady Macbeth. In order to make these differences clearer to the audience and readers, Shakespeare makes use of clothing imagery and the characters responses to