SLEEPWALKING!
BACKGROUNDEY Sleep-walking was used in Macbeth Act FIVE scene ONE It is a very famous scene Surprisingly enough, the scene itself is an original Shakespeare creative idea. Depicts guilt, remorse, and psychological turmoil. Sleep-walking is referred to as: somnambulism
History! Sleepwalking was unnatural and unholy. It was seen as something that needed spiritual healing rather than medical healing.
Biblical Significance. Gentlewoman: Neither to you nor any one; having no witness to confirm my speech. (5.1.16-7) This alludes to Matthew 18:16 wherein it says "But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses, every word may be established." (Whatever that means)
Stories/myths? The sleepwalking scene depicted the characters guilt on her conscience. This could possibly allude to Shakespeare's involvement in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. This could be his way of admitting or at least letting people know that he feels guilty for ever being a part of that.
SYMBOLS.
BEN used STRENGTH. (It's super effective!) Said to be an original idea from Shakespeare, as no other found writing had sleepwalking. Very good way to let people know how Lady Macbeth is feeling. Very unique subject to put into a play.
WEAK. Sleepwalking seemed unholy. This was looked down upon by the Church to be used for entertainment. Since many people were connected and based their lives on the church, the general public didn't take very kindly to it either.
SOURCES. http://nfs.sparknotes.com/macbeth/page_182.html http://www.shakespeare-navigators.com/macbeth/Notes51.html http://www.shakespeare-online.com/plays/macbeth_5_1.html