While watching one of Shakespeare's plays,Rachel notices that Lady Macbeth seems to have an anxiety disorder.In one scene,Lady Macbeth repeatedly washes nonexistent blood off her hands.If Rachel were to adopt a psychodynamic explanation for Lady Macbeth's behaviour,what might Rachel suggest?
A)her parents consistently reinforced cleanliness in her childhood.
B)she is suffering from a neurological disorder.
C)her behaviour is a consequence of an evolutionary predisposition.
D)her hand washing is a symbolic representation of an underlying conflict.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A psychodynamic explanation would suggest that Lady Macbeth's hand washing is a symbolic representation of an underlying conflict, such as guilt or a desire to rid herself of her involvement in the murders. This is consistent with Freud's theory of symbolism in dreams and other behaviors as expressions of unconscious conflicts.

While Watching One of Shakespeare's Plays,Rachel Notices That Lady Macbeth