Gothic themes of Macbeth

The gothic theme of Macbeth is apparent from the very beginning of the play as the first act itself embodies several conventions of gothic literature-

*The three witches are of obvious gothic origin. Supernatural elements such as witches are often depicted in gothic literature.  The concept of witches holds connotations of evil in itself correlating to tradition. In addition to this they could be held responsible for the undoing of the greatly respected Macbeth; in planting the idea of power in his head, and in doing so playing a part in King Duncan’s death.

*The introduction to the witches demonstrates the first use of pathetic fallacy in the play. Upon the witches’ entrance thunder and lightning are illustrated. Along with thunder and lightning being typical of a gothic piece, the negative connotations correlate to the presence of the witches.

*Death is a theme introduced to the play very early. A captain is depicted as dying from bloody wounds which also relates to the convention of gore in gothic. In addition Cawdor is executed, the sever theme of death so early on makes obvious the gothic agenda.

*Women characters in gothic literature are often branded as evil despite they’re delicate appearance. This is another factor of Macbeth that sticks to convention; Lady Macbeth appears to breed corruption into Macbeth, in convincing and manipulating him into the eventual act of murder. The dialog used by Lady Macbeth is grotesque and supposedly uncommon of society. As a woman, she would typically be delicate and in touch with her emotions, perhaps motherly. But as a gothic woman she appears manipulative and cold in nature. Such language is used to manipulate Macbeth into the murder ‘’I would while it was smiling in face, have plucked my nipple from its boneless gums, and bashed the brains out had I so sworn as you have done to this. She appears cold and void of any human compassion a typical archetype of the gothic woman.