Shakespeare uses a variety of language techniques to present the attitudes of Macbeth and

Banquo towards the supernatural.

Here are some examples:

Metaphor: "Against the use of nature?" - Macbeth questions whether the supernatural
suggestion is against the natural order of things, highlighting his uncertainty and fear of the
unknown.

Imagery: "Whose horrid image doth unfix my hair" - Macbeth's hair is personified as being
"unfixed" by the supernatural image, creating a vivid picture of his fear and unease.
Irony: "As happy prologues to the swelling act" - Macbeth sees the witches' prophecy as a
good omen, but the audience knows that it will ultimately lead to his downfall, creating
dramatic irony.

Foreshadowing: "And oftentimes, to win us to our harm, the instruments of darkness tell us
truths" - Banquo's warning foreshadows the danger that the witches' prophecy poses to
Macbeth.

Repetition: "Cannot be ill, cannot be good" - Macbeth repeats this phrase to emphasize his
confusion and uncertainty about the supernatural.

Dialogue: "Cousins, a word, I pray you" - Banquo's polite request for a private conversation
with Macbeth highlights his rationality and caution, in contrast to Macbeth's willingness to
listen to the witches.

Tone: "Present fears are less than horrible imaginings" - Macbeth's tone is one of fear and
anxiety, as he realizes the enormity of the task