LADY MACBETH: The raven himself is hoarse
That croaks the fatal entrance of Duncan
Under my battlements. Come, you spirits
That tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here,
And fill me from the crown to the toe top-full
Lady Macbeth's Unsex Me Here Soliloquy — Macbeth
Lady Macbeth calls upon supernatural spirits to strip her of feminine compassion and fill her with the cruelty necessary to murder King Duncan. She steeling her resolve and preparing her husband for the dark deeds required to seize the crown.
Format: Monologue · Genre: Tragedy · Source: Macbeth · Author: William Shakespeare · Characters: Lady Macbeth
About This Scene
This powerful monologue from Shakespeare's Macbeth features Lady Macbeth at a pivotal moment, responding to the news of the witches' prophecy and her husband's potential ascendancy to the throne. She actively summons supernatural forces to divest herself of any perceived feminine weakness, seeking to be filled instead with ruthless cruelty. This scene is a profound exploration of ambition, power, and the darkness human nature is capable of embracing.
Character Analysis
Lady Macbeth is presented here as a figure of formidable ambition and resolute determination. She is not merely contemplating evil; she is actively invoking it, desiring to shed her natural compassion and embrace a hardened, merciless persona. Her language reveals a mind focused entirely on the acquisition of power, willing to sacrifice her very essence to achieve her murderous aims. This character embodies a chilling ruthlessness and an unwavering will to dominate, making her a compelling, albeit terrifying, figure.
Why This Works for Auditions
This monologue is an exceptional vehicle for showcasing an actor's ability to embody intense emotion and command classical text. It offers a wide dynamic range, moving from a prayer-like invocation to a fierce declaration of intent, all within a focused timeframe. Successfully performing this piece demonstrates not only strong vocal control and understanding of Shakespearean language but also the capacity to portray a character driven by profound internal conflict and a chilling resolve, which are highly sought-after qualities in dramatic acting.
Best Suited For
This piece is ideally suited for actors in the 30s-50s age range who are looking to portray a leading lady, villain, or an intense, sophisticated character. It is an excellent choice for drama school auditions, where a strong command of classical text and dramatic weight is essential, or for agent showcases to demonstrate range and power. Actors who can tap into themes of ambition, the supernatural, and absolute power will find this monologue particularly rewarding and impactful.
Performance Tips
When approaching this monologue, focus on Lady Macbeth's inner transformation and the vivid imagery of her language. Explore the contrast between her initial call to the spirits and her growing sense of power and control. Pay close attention to Shakespeare's verse, ensuring clarity and utilizing the rhythm to build intensity and convey her ruthless determination. Emphasize the active nature of her invocations, showing that she is not merely speaking words, but genuinely summoning a profound internal shift to prepare for the violent deeds ahead.