Macbeth’s Horses Eating Each Other: Exploring Symbolism and Chaos in Shakespeare’s Masterpiece

Introduction

In William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the phrase “the horses eating each other” is a powerful and evocative line that serves as a symbolic representation of the chaos and moral corruption that arise due to the protagonist’s unchecking ambition. This phrase is taken directly from Holinshed’s Chronicles and is often discussed in relation to the breaking of natural order and the consequences of Macbeth’s actions. In this article, we explore this symbolism, its implications, and the broader themes of Macbeth.

Symbolism and Chaos

The line “the horses eating each other” is a stark and unsettling image that evokes a sense of disorder and chaos. This scene appears after Duncan’s assassination and represents the breakdown of natural order within the kingdom. This image mirrors the breakdown of the natural world and the moral decay that follows the overthrown of a rightful king and the crossing of moral boundaries. The horses, which are supposed to be noble and domesticated creatures, are now engaged in an act of cannibalism, a behavior that is both unnatural and terrifying.

Reflection of Human Actions

The unnatural behavior of the horses is a direct reflection of the unnatural acts committed by Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. Macbeth’s ambitious drive and Lady Macbeth’s manipulation of him lead them to commit heinous acts that go against the natural order of kingship and loyalty. Just as the horses act against their nature, Macbeth’s actions are a corruption of the natural order. His ambition and the subsequent actions of both characters lead to a broader societal collapse, mirroring the chaos seen in the natural world.

Natural vs. Unnatural

The horses symbolize the natural world, a world that is disrupted by the unnatural actions of Macbeth. Their cannibalism serves as a metaphor for the moral decay and the violent upheaval in society. The eating of each other represents the breaking of social and moral bonds, a reflection of the breakdown of the natural order. This symbol highlights the theme of chaos and the consequences of seeking power at any cost.

Consequences of Ambition

The imagery in this scene is a clear indication of the consequences of unchecked ambition and the moral ramifications of Macbeth’s and Lady Macbeth’s thirst for power. Their actions lead not only to their own downfall but also to a broader societal collapse. The imbalance in nature is a reflection of the imbalance in power that has been created by Macbeth’s and Lady Macbeth’s actions.

Summary of Themes

Overall, the phrase “the horses eating each other” encapsulates the themes of chaos, moral corruption, and the consequences of ambition that are central to Macbeth. It highlights the breakdown of natural order and the societal and moral decay that follows. This scene and its symbols provide a powerful counterpoint to the narrative of Macbeth, reinforcing the message that power and ambition, when unchecked, can lead to dire consequences.

Conclusion

The line “the horses eating each other” is a vivid and chilling representation of the chaos brought about by Macbeth’s and Lady Macbeth’s unchecked ambition. It serves as a powerful symbol of the disruption of natural order and the moral corruption that ensues. Understanding this symbolism is crucial to comprehending the deeper themes of Macbeth and the broader context of Shakespeare’s work.