Away, and mock the time with fairest show; false face must hide what the false heart doth khow

Away, and mock the time with fairest show; false face must hide what the false heart doth khow

In William Shakespeare's play Macbeth, the character Lady Macbeth speaks these famous lines: "Away, and mock the time with fairest show; false face must hide what the false heart doth know." These words encapsulate the theme of deception and the contrast between appearance and reality that runs throughout the play.

Lady Macbeth is urging her husband, Macbeth, to put on a false front and deceive others about their true intentions. She is encouraging him to act as if everything is fine and to hide the guilt and treachery that lie within their hearts. This quote highlights the idea that outward appearances can be deceiving and that people often wear masks to conceal their true selves.

Throughout Macbeth, characters constantly deceive each other and themselves in order to achieve their goals. Macbeth himself puts on a false face to hide his ambition and desire for power, while Lady Macbeth pretends to be strong and unfeeling in order to manipulate her husband. The witches also use deception to lead Macbeth astray, promising him power and glory but ultimately leading him to his downfall.

The theme of appearance versus reality is a central theme in many of Shakespeare's plays, including Othello, Hamlet, and King Lear. In these works, characters often struggle to discern the truth behind the facades that others present to them. Shakespeare explores the idea that people are not always what they seem and that the truth can be elusive and difficult to uncover.

Ultimately, Lady Macbeth's words serve as a warning about the dangers of deception and the consequences of living a lie. By pretending to be something they are not, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth ultimately bring about their own downfall. The quote reminds us that true happiness and fulfillment can only come from being honest with ourselves and others, even when it is difficult or uncomfortable.