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Macbeth Glossary


slips of yew (4.1.27)

The yew tree was planted frequently in graveyards and the wood is poisonous; thus it has a twofold association with death. Compare Richard II:

In stiff unwieldy arms against thy crown:
The very beadsmen learn to bend their bows
Of double-fatal yew against thy state. (3.2.120)

Compare also Twelfth Night:

I am slain by a fair cruel maid.
My shroud of white, stuck all with yew. (2.4.60)

Back to Macbeth (4.1)

How to cite this article:

Mabillard, Amanda. Macbeth Glossary. Shakespeare Online. 20 Aug. 2000. (date when you accessed the information) < http://www.shakespeare-online.com/plays/macbeth/macbethglossary/macbeth1_1/macbethglos_yew.html >.
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