Final answer:
Shakespeare displayed themes of appearances versus reality by portraying characters who are deceived by their perceptions, those who trust their instincts, and those who are keenly aware of their surroundings.
Step-by-step explanation:
Shakespeare frequently played with the themes of appearances and reality in his plays, and he did this in several ways. One primary method Shakespeare used was by creating characters who are deceived by their own perceptions. Characters in plays such as Hamlet, Macbeth, and Twelfth Night fall victim to false appearances, leading to dramatic irony and plot twists that captivate the audience. Moreover, these characters often wear metaphorical or literal 'masks,' presenting a façade to other characters, which can be likened to the actors on stage who don masks of performance.
Shakespeare also delves into the contrast between appearance and reality through characters who trust their instincts and intuition, often leading to a closer understanding of the truth compared to those around them. This thematic element stresses the value of insight over mere perception.
Lastly, not all characters are oblivious. Some are consistently aware of their surroundings and use this knowledge to navigate the deceptive waters of Shakespeare's stories effectively. These characters are often instrumental in resolving the conflicts that arise from misunderstandings and deceptive appearances.