There are several instances of imagery throughout acts I, II, and III in the play Macbeth. Imagery is sensory details (touch, sounds, etc.) that enhance the feelings or senses of the reader more than abstract language does. The imagery that Shakespeare so eloquently uses, serves not only to heighten the level of the play, but also to foreshadow events and display physiological distress within the characters. The use of animal imagery suggests symbolism that is connected with the upheaval of the universe. Images of blood are used to further emphasize Macbeth's thoughts on murder. These two images combined with others give the play a sensory orientation, and also an orientation that displays a deeper understanding of this chaotic atmosphere, which seems to engulf all that are involved.
             Animal imagery is used extensively throughout Macbeth to reflect, to foreshadow, or to represent certain events that have or will take place. The foreshadowing of Duncan's death comes when Lady Macbeth exclaims, "The raven himself is hoarse/ That croaks the fatal entrance of Duncan/ Under my battlements" (A. I, sc. 5 ll. 34-36). The raven, a large black bird of prey, has had a long history of acceptance as the symbol of death. This image of the raven foreshadows the augmented predatory nature of what will happen, which ultimately results in the death of Duncan. The heinous crime of overthrowing through murder is revealed by the old man, "'Tis unnatural, Even like the deed that's done. On Tuesday last/ A falcon, towering in her pride of place, Was by a mousing owl harked at and killed" (A. II, sc. 4 ll. 11-14). This murder relates to the ambitious and heinous murder of Duncan, by Macbeth for kingship. This murder is again seen as a reversal of natural order, where the lesser overpower the greater. Macbeth refers to Fleance through animal imagery, "The worm that's fled/ Hath nature that in time will venom breed, No teeth for the present" (A. II...