Both Uses of
repose
in
Macbeth
- A heavy summons lies like lead upon me,
And yet I would not sleep. Merciful powers,
Restrain in me the cursed thoughts that nature
Gives way to in repose!p. 49.7 *repose = rest or sleepeditor's notes: This could be paraphrased as: "A heavy drowsiness weighs on me like lead, yet I cannot sleep. Merciful spirits, hold back the wicked thoughts that take over when the mind is at rest!"
In this scene, Banquo is troubled by the witches' prophecy.
- Good repose the while!
p. 51.6repose = rest or sleepeditor's notes: This is an archaic way of saying, "Rest or sleep well in the meantime."
Definitions:
-
(1)
(repose as in: repose on the sofa) to rest or lie
-
(2)
(meaning too rare to warrant focus) meaning too rare to warrant focus:
Repose can also mean to put something (e.g., trust) in someone or something.