Shakespeare wrote Macbeth, he added Scottish elements to the
play. Apart from being set in Scotland,
the two-fold balls and the treble scepters refers to James’ double coronation
that took place at Scone and Westminster.
In the play, the two balls symbolize King James’ double insignia that he
wore to show his reign over England and Scotland. The treble scepters were symbols for the
kingdoms of England, Scotland and Ireland.
Another symbol is Malcolm’s citation of the scrofula. This was attributed to James’ belief that his
touch could cure. This was said to have
come from Edward the Confessor. James
was a patron of Shakespeare’s plays and Shakespeare added these elements to the
play to show his appreciate for the King’s support of his theater company.
