O, full of scorpions is my mind, dear wife!
Act III, Scene 2 · Macbeth
Context
Macbeth responds to Lady Macbeth's advice by revealing his obsessive fear of Banquo and Fleance. The scorpion image conveys his mental state.
Analysis
Unlike a single invasive thought, scorpions are plural and mobile, suggesting Macbeth's mind is overrun by multiple stinging threats he cannot control or locate. The possessive 'my mind' becomes ironic—if it is full of scorpions, it is no longer truly his. The tender address 'dear wife' placed immediately after this violent image also creates tonal whiplash, showing Macbeth toggling between intimacy and horror within a single breath.
Essay Tip
Use this to argue that Macbeth's interiority has become hostile to him—the scorpion metaphor suggests his own mind is now the site of attack, not a place of refuge or control.