Question

5. When Macbeth says that "We have scorched the snake, not killed it" (line 15), to what is he referring?

Answer 1

In the play "Macbeth" by William Shakespeare, when Macbeth says, "We have scorched the snake, not killed it" (line 15), he is metaphorically referring to Banquo's murder and the escape of Banquo's son, Fleance.

This line implies that although they have eliminated Banquo, who was a threat to Macbeth's throne according to the prophecy, the danger is not yet fully eradicated because Fleance, Banquo's son, has escaped. Macbeth sees Fleance's survival as a potential continuation of the threat to his reign, likening it to a snake that has been wounded but not completely eliminated.

Answer 2

Macbeth's reference to 'scorching the snake' signifies their unfinished business and looming threats after the murder of King Duncan.

Step-by-step explanation:

When Macbeth says that "We have scorched the snake, not killed it" (line 15), he is referring to the incomplete nature of the deed they have done by murdering King Duncan. Although they have managed to carry out the assassination, Macbeth suggests that their problems are not entirely resolved, and they still face threats to their power and position. This metaphor implies that like a wounded snake, their troubles could come back to harm them if not dealt with completely.