The motif of "Sleep" plays a major role in the tragedy of Macbeth by William Shakespeare, symbolizing not only death, but also the oxymoron of sleep, a long drowsy rest. Neither Macbeth nor Lady Macbeth get any sleep during the play, which becomes permanent after the death of Duncan, the king of Scotland. "But be the serpent under't. He that's coming/Must be provided for; and you shall put/This night's great business into my dispatch, Which shall to all our nights and days to come/Give solely sovereign sway and masterdom." (I.vi.78-82) This exact quote tells the reader from the beginning that Macbeth and Lady Macbeth will not sleep at all during the tragedy and to all their days to come.

Following the murder of Duncan, Macbeth hears a voice that whispers to him as he makes his way towards Duncan's room; "Metought I heard...