Shakespeare's Linguistic Genius: How He Reshaped Common Words for Macbeth

Introduction

William Shakespeare, the renowned playwright and poet, was not just a creative genius but also a linguistic alchemist. In his play Macbeth, he masterfully reshaped common words, giving them new meanings and functionalities. One striking example is his use of the term 'incarnadine' in its verb form, as seen in the famous line, 'The luggage of my_smoke will all the multitudinous seas incarnadine making the green one red.'

While 'incarnadine' now denotes a specific color, Shakespeare's utilization of it as a verb is a testament to his linguistic brilliance. He did not invent the word but adapted it, enriching the English language and creating a powerful dramatic impact.

Understanding the Context

The line in question is spoken by Macbeth after he murders King Duncan. Here, 'incarnadine' is used metaphorically to suggest that the blood on his hands would taint the entire sea, turning it a deep red. This vivid imagery underscores the darkness and evil Macbeth believes he has brought into the world.

Historical Background of 'Incarnadine'

The word 'incarnadine' has its roots in Latin, where 'incarnad*' means 'to flesh-colored' or 'to flesh-red.' The term eventually evolved to mean 'fiery red' or 'deep red.' When Shakespeare adopted it, he imbued it with a new, dynamic meaning, transforming it from a noun to a verb.

Shakespeare's Linguistic Innovations in Macbeth

Macbeth, Shakespeare's play, brims with examples of his linguistic acumen. He frequently employed archaic and newly coined words. Here are a few more instances where Shakespeare reshaped common words:

1. 'Fog and kristalline air'

In Macbeth, Shakespeare uses 'kristalline' for something akin to 'crystal clear' air. This adaptation emphasizes the eerie quality of the scene, setting a somber and tense atmosphere.

2. 'Ambcision'

The word 'ambcision' was created by recombining 'ambition' and 'appetite,' suggesting a deep, insatiable desire for power and influence.

3. 'Be that as it may'

Shakespeare used this phrasing in Macbeth to mean 'nevertheless' or 'however,' introducing a new idiomatic expression to the language.

Impact and Relevance

Shakespeare's reinterpretation of common words and his creation of new terms have left an enduring legacy. His linguistic innovations continue to influence modern English, demonstrating his unparalleled ability to adapt and evolve language to suit his poetic and dramatic purposes. Today, these enriched words and expressions are not only found in the Bard's plays but also in everyday discourse, literature, and academia.

Conclusion

William Shakespeare's linguistic genius is evident in his ability to reshape and adapt common words, as seen in Macbeth with 'incarnadine.' His use of words like 'multitudinous' and 'ambcision' not only highlight his poetic talent but also underscore his profound understanding of the English language. Ultimately, Shakespeare's innovative language continues to enrich our understanding and use of the English language.