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Analyze Shakespeare’s use of the dagger in these lines. Which interpretation could be used to explain its use? Select the two correct answers. (1 point) Responses Macbeth’s guilt for thinking about killing the king has triggered its appearance. Macbeth’s guilt for thinking about killing the king has triggered its appearance. The dagger is a reminder to Macbeth about his violent past. The dagger is a reminder to Macbeth about his violent past. Macbeth is receiving a warning to be wary about a possible threat to his life. Macbeth is receiving a warning to be wary about a possible threat to his life. Macbeth’s sight of the dagger, which is not actually there, indicates his insanity. Macbeth’s sight of the dagger, which is not actually there, indicates his insanity. The dagger is a message to Macbeth that he should act on his impulses. The dagger is a message to Macbeth that he should act on his impulses.

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In analyzing Shakespeare’s use of the dagger in Macbeth, the following interpretations can be considered correct based on the context of the play:

  1. Macbeth’s guilt for thinking about killing the king has triggered its appearance. - This interpretation speaks to the psychological turmoil Macbeth experiences as he grapples with his ambition and the moral implications of murdering King Duncan. The dagger symbolizes his internal conflict and foreshadows the violent act he is contemplating.

  2. Macbeth’s sight of the dagger, which is not actually there, indicates his insanity. - This interpretation reflects Macbeth's descent into madness as he becomes more consumed by his ambition and guilt. The hallucination of the dagger illustrates his disturbed mental state and the overpowering nature of his thoughts about murder.

These interpretations align with the themes of ambition, guilt, and the impact of psychological distress that are central to Macbeth.