Final answer:
Macbeth's state of mind in lines 10-16 of Scene 5 is rife with psychological turmoil and ambivalence caused by his guilt and inner conflict after Duncan's murder, magnified by societal expectations of masculinity and courage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Analysis of Macbeth's State of Mind
In lines 10-16 of Scene 5 from Shakespeare's Macbeth, we can discern a great deal about Macbeth's state of mind. During this moment in the play, Macbeth expresses profound ambivalence, guilt, and psychological turmoil following his regicidal actions. His dialogue reveals that he is conflicted, as his desire for power has led him to commit a heinous act that deeply troubles his conscience. His words reflect an internal chaos, grappling with emotions ranging from wisdom to amazement, and from temperance to fury. Macbeth's reference to his 'violent love' for Duncan, couched in poetic language about nature's ruins and Duncan's 'silver skin laced with his golden blood', underscores the torment of betraying one whom he loved and respected.
This psychological struggle is compounded by the expectations of masculinity and courage, as Lady Macbeth chastises him for his fear, questioning his love and valour while implying that he is no braver than a 'poor cat' in an adage. Macbeth's troubled state is further evidenced by his need to 'bend up each corporal agent' to the murder and to 'hide what the false heart doth know', highlighting the duplicity required to mask his inner turmoil and maintain his regal image.