Final answer:
The phrase "To seem thus washing her hands" in Act 5, Scene 1 of "Macbeth" refers to Lady Macbeth, who is trying to wash away the blood and guilt from her hands as a result of the complicity in King Duncan's murder.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase "To seem thus washing her hands" refers to Lady Macbeth in Act 5, Scene 1 of Shakespeare's play "Macbeth". Lady Macbeth experiences a profound psychological breakdown and is seen obsessively washing her hands, trying to cleanse them of the blood and guilt of the murders she has been complicit in, particularly the murder of King Duncan.
Lady Macbeth's guilt-stricken act of handwashing is a significant moment within the play that underscores the thematic elements of guilt and the psychological consequences of one's actions. Shakespeare uses this behavior to symbolize the stain of guilt that cannot be washed away, despite Lady Macbeth's desperate attempts.