Question

read the excerpt from act 3, scene 4 of the tragedy of macbeth. macbeth is talking to lady macbeth after their dinner guests have departed.
macbeth. for mine own good
all causes shall give way: i am in blood
steppd in so far, that, should i wade no more,
returning were as tedious as go oer.
strange things i have in head that will to hand,
which must be acted ere they may be scannd.
what does macbeth mean by the metaphor \i am in blood\?
he is guilty.
he is hurt.
he is scared.
he is drained.

Explanation:

In the play Macbeth, Macbeth has committed multiple murders (like killing King Duncan). The metaphor "I am in blood" is a symbolic way of expressing his deep - seated guilt. He has gone so far in his evil deeds (represented by "blood" as a symbol of sin and guilt) that turning back (not continuing his path of evil) would be as difficult as continuing. Being "hurt" would be a more literal physical state which is not indicated here. "Scared" is too surface - level compared to the weight of his actions. "Drained" implies a lack of energy, which is not the main connotation here. Guilt is the most fitting as it relates to his moral and psychological state after his heinous acts.

Answer:

He is guilty.