Topic > The Use of Rhetorical Strategies in Shakespeare's Macbeth

IndexPathosEthosLogosKairosShakespeare's Macbeth is a literary masterpiece that employs various rhetorical strategies to convey its themes and messages. The play is the tragic story of a Scottish nobleman, Macbeth, driven by ambition to commit atrocious 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 Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayPathosFirst, pathos is one of the most important rhetorical strategies employed in Macbeth. The show 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 in which she expresses remorse for her actions. He says, "Out, damn place! Out, I say! One, two, why, then it's time to do it. Hell is dark!" (Act 5, scene 1). This scene creates a sense 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 engaging the audience's emotions and reinforcing the themes of guilt, remorse, and the consequences of one's actions. Ethos Secondly, ethos is another rhetorical strategy employed in Macbeth. The characters in the play establish their credibility and reputation through their actions and words. For example, Macbeth is initially described 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, her actions ultimately lead to her downfall. The use of ethos in Macbeth is significant as it highlights the importance of reputation and credibility in shaping the actions of individuals. Logos Third, logos is a rhetorical strategy that is used to appeal to the audience's sense of logic and reasoning. Macbeth uses various logical appeals that advance the plot and develop the characters. For example, Macbeth's decision to kill King Duncan is driven by his ambition to become king. He believes that the only way to achieve his goal is to eliminate all obstacles in his way. This decision ultimately leads to his downfall, highlighting the dangers of uncontrolled ambition. The use of logos in Macbeth is effective in engaging the audience's intellect and reinforcing the 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 represents a significant turning point in the play. This prophecy sets in motion 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 resulting consequences. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom EssayIn In conclusion, Macbeth is a literary masterpiece that employs various rhetorical strategies to convey its themes and messages to the audience. The use of ethos, pathos, logos and kairos is significant in the development of plot, characters and.