”Double, double toil and trouble; fire burn and cauldron bubble“ William Shakespeare Quotation Early 17th century England 0 0 0 0 Write the first comment Meaning This phrase invokes a sense of foreboding and malevolence, capturing the eerie and supernatural atmosphere of the scene in "Macbeth." The witches' chant suggests that they are engaging in dark and mysterious practices, stirring trouble and turmoil through their potions. It reflects themes of witchcraft, destiny, and the dark side of human nature. Allegory The witches around the cauldron symbolize the conjuring of supernatural forces and the thematic element of fate and manipulation in "Macbeth." The cauldron's eerie glow casts an ominous light, highlighting the malice and dark intentions of the witches. The surrounding dark forest emphasizes the theme of mystery and foreboding. Finally, the shadowy figure of Macbeth approaching in the background signifies the lure and inevitable downfall that comes with tampering with such dark powers, encapsulating the central conflict of the play. Applicability The phrase can be applied to personal life as a warning about the consequences of meddling with things beyond one's control or engaging in deceptive and harmful practices. It reminds us that actions driven by malice or undue curiosity can result in unforeseen and turbulent outcomes. Impact This quote has had a significant cultural impact, becoming one of the most recognized lines from Shakespeare's works. It frequently appears in popular culture, from literature and film to music and Halloween references. The chant itself has become synonymous with witchcraft and the supernatural, often evoking the theme of dark magic and foreboding. Historical Context "Macbeth" was written in the early 17th century, specifically around 1606. This period was marked by a strong belief in witchcraft and supernatural elements, which influenced much of Shakespeare's work. Criticisms Some criticisms of this phrase and its context in "Macbeth" involve the perpetuation of stereotypes about witches and witchcraft, which contributed to historical witch hunts and the persecution of those accused of witchcraft. These stereotypes can still influence modern perceptions of alternative spiritual practices. Variations While the phrase itself comes from Western literature, the theme of invoking supernatural forces and the consequences thereof is common in many cultures. Variations can be found in folklore and literature around the world, reflecting universal human fears and fascinations with the unknown and the mystical. Go back to the description 280 characters left Send Comment No Comments The golden age is before us, not behind us. Ralph Waldo Emerson Read more The better part of valor is discretion. William Shakespeare Read more The devil can cite Scripture for his purpose. William Shakespeare Read more Out, out brief candle! William Shakespeare Read more Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind; and therefore is winged Cupid painted blind. William Shakespeare Read more My tongue will tell the anger of my heart, or else my heart concealing it will break. William Shakespeare Read more Is this a dagger which I see before me, the handle toward my hand? William Shakespeare Read more Frailty, thy name is woman! William Shakespeare Read more Get thee to a nunnery. William Shakespeare Read more Lord, what fools these mortals be! William Shakespeare Read more The robbed that smiles, steals something from the thief. William Shakespeare Read more Brevity is the soul of wit. William Shakespeare Read more By signing in, you'll enable saving your preferences and be able to post comments. By signing in, you'll enable saving your preferences and be able to post comments. Sign in with: or Sign in with your email address: Email Password Sign in Loading... Name Insert your name or nick (3 to 20 char). Email Insert a valid email address to be verified. Password 8+ chars, 1 uppercase, 1 lowercase, 1 number, 1 special @$!%*?_+ Clicking the Create account button will send you a verification email. Create account New here? Create an account. Previous Close
Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind; and therefore is winged Cupid painted blind. William Shakespeare Read more
My tongue will tell the anger of my heart, or else my heart concealing it will break. William Shakespeare Read more