Final answer:
Lady Macbeth's counsel to Macbeth to appear innocent while being deceitful is best associated with the theme of appearance versus reality. This theme underlies much of the deceit and treachery in 'Macbeth', and represents the divergence between how things appear and what they truly are. The correct option from the student's question is (a) Appearance vs. reality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lady Macbeth’s advice to Macbeth to "look like th’ innocent flower, but be the serpent under ’t" is most aptly associated with the theme of appearance versus reality. This theme is prevalent throughout the play, as characters often hide their true intentions behind a facade of innocence or respectability. Lady Macbeth, in particular, manipulates Macbeth into embracing this deceptive approach to achieve their ambitions of power.
The theme of appearance versus reality is reflected in several other instances within Macbeth, too. Notably, the characters frequently wear metaphorical masks to conceal their dark, ambitious, or treacherous motives, while outwardly presenting a veneer of loyalty and honor. This disconnect between how things seem and how they truly are is a critical aspect of the play's exploration of human nature and morality. The correct option that connects with this theme from the student's question is (a) Appearance vs. reality.
The manipulation of appearances to conceal truth is a technique employed by several characters, highlighting the disparity between what is seen and what is hidden. Much of the treachery and deceit that unfolds in the narrative is a result of this dichotomy, underpinning much of the play's dramatic tension and tragic outcomes.