Commentary for Macbeth's Soliloquy If it were done when 'tis done 1.7

Macbeth's Soliloquy: If it were done when 'tis done... (1.7.1-29).

Commentary

Macbeth's first soliloquy reaffirms that the three witches, by informing him that he will be "king hereafter" (1.3.50), have merely kindled his own innermost desire to obtain the throne. Their prediction may encourage Macbeth to act upon his secret thoughts, as does the prodding of Lady Macbeth, but it does not dictate Macbeth's course of action.

Macbeth makes a conscious choice to forsake morality and pursue his "Vaulting ambition" (28). This soliloquy exposes Macbeth's conflicting feelings about the murder. His first thoughts revolve around the consequences of committing the crime. In lines 1-12 his primary concern and reason for hesitation is the possibility that someone will exact that "even-handed Justice" (10) upon him. Once Macbeth usurps the throne there will be others who will plot to steal it from him.

Some critics seem to end their analysis at this point and conclude that Macbeth "wishes intensely the death of Duncan" (Langford xxxv) and that only his fear of potential ramifications is a deterrent. However, the second half of the soliloquy supports the fact that Macbeth is deeply troubled by the horror of killing Duncan, who is a benevolent ruler, honest man, and good friend. It is guilt and not fear of the consequences that is Macbeth's greatest obstacle.

For information on the metaphors in this soliloquy and in the play in general, please see my article, Biblical Imagery in Macbeth.

Back to Soliloquy Annotations

How to cite this article:
Mabillard, Amanda. Macbeth Commentary: If it were done when 'tis done. Shakespeare Online. 20 Aug. 2000. (date when you accessed the information) < http://shakespeare-online.com/plays/macbeth/soliloquies/ifitweredoneanalysis.html >.

References
Shakespeare, William. The Tragedy of Macbeth. Ed. Nicholas Brooke. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1990.
Shakespeare, William. Macbeth. Ed. W. F. Langford. Toronto: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1966.

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