Page:The Psychology of Shakespeare.pdf/27

12 which, according to Coleridge, he mistakes for conscience. Surely it indicates a sensitive appreciation of right motive, and the fear of punishment in the life to come; the acknow ledgment also that crime, even in this world, receives its proper reward from the operation of even-handed justice; the acknow ledgment of the foul nature of treachery to a kinsman and disloyalty to a king. Moreover, that expression of sincere pity for the gracious Duncan, whose meek and holy character is depicted in so fine a contrast to his own fierce and wayward

passions, is a sentiment far removed from “prudential reason ings.” Thus he convinces himself against the deed, and concludes:

“I have no spur To prick the sides of my intent, but only Vaulting ambition, which o'er-leaps its sell, -

And falls on the other.”

When Lady Macbeth joins him, he expresses his virtuous resolve, and for the first time adds “prudential reasonings:” “We will proceed no further in this business: He hath honour'd me of late ; and I have bought Golden opinions from all sorts of people, Which would be worn now in their newest gloss, Not cast aside so soon.”

Then mark the temptation to which the terrible woman sub jects him ; the taunts of cowardice and weakness; taunts to which a soldier gifted with sensitive personal bravery would be keenly alive, especially coming from the lips of a beautiful woman whom he loved ;

“Was the hope drunk, Wherein you dress'd yourself? hath it slept since 2 And wakes it now, to look so green and pale At what it did so freely. From this time, Such I account thy love. Art thou afeard To be the same in thine own act and valour, As thou art in desire ?”

She further urges the temptation by comparing his vacillating desire with her own fell purpose, in that terrible passage :