The innocent sleep, sleep that knits up the ravelled sleave of care

The innocent sleep, sleep that knits up the ravelled sleave of care

In William Shakespeare's play Macbeth, the character Macbeth utters the famous line, "The innocent sleep, sleep that knits up the ravelled sleave of care." This line is spoken by Macbeth after he has committed the heinous act of murdering King Duncan in his sleep. The line reflects Macbeth's guilt and remorse over his actions, as he struggles to come to terms with the consequences of his ambition and greed.

The phrase "the innocent sleep" refers to the peaceful and restful state of sleep that is enjoyed by those who have not committed any wrongdoing. In this context, Macbeth is lamenting the loss of his own innocence and the peace of mind that comes with it. He is haunted by the memory of his crime and is unable to find solace in sleep, as it only serves to remind him of his guilt.

The image of sleep "knitting up the ravelled sleave of care" is a powerful metaphor for the restorative power of sleep. The word "sleave" refers to a tangled or knotted thread, and by using this imagery, Shakespeare suggests that sleep has the ability to untangle the worries and anxieties that plague the mind. Sleep is portrayed as a healer, a balm for the troubled soul that can mend the frayed edges of a troubled mind.

However, for Macbeth, sleep is no longer a source of comfort or relief. Instead, it serves as a torment, a reminder of his guilt and the consequences of his actions. The line reflects Macbeth's inner turmoil and his struggle to come to terms with the moral implications of his deeds.

Overall, Shakespeare's use of the phrase "The innocent sleep, sleep that knits up the ravelled sleave of care" in Macbeth serves to highlight the theme of guilt and remorse in the play. It underscores the destructive nature of ambition and the toll it can take on the human soul. Through this line, Shakespeare explores the complex relationship between sleep, innocence, and the consequences of one's actions.