How does Shakespeare portray such themes as the abuse of power and appearance versus reality in his play, Macbeth? Shakespeare utilizes literary devices such irony and symbolism to convey the central messages of the play. Several key events within the play influence characters to act the way they do. As Act I opens the play, we see Macbeth and Banquo deliberating over the witches predictions. While analyzing the witches prophesies of events yet to come, Banquo says “The instruments of darkness tell us truths, / Win us with honest trifles ....