In Macbeth, Shakespeare frequently uses images suggesting darkness and evil. From the environment to the concoctions the witches use the play is loaded with images of darkness and evil.
Blood is everywhere in Macbeth, beginning in the opening battle between the Scots and Norwegian invaders, which is described in harrowing terms by the wounded captain in Act I Scene II:
"except they meant to bathe in reeking wounds
or memorise another Golgotha"
Once Macbeth and Lady Macbeth embark upon their murderous journey, blood comes to symbolise their guilt and they begin to feel that their crimes have stained them in a way that cannot be washed clean.
"will all great Neptune's ocean wash this blood
clean from my hand?"
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