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Word Nerd: "crests"
Context and Language Videos
Act 5,
Scene 7
Lines 39-43a

An explanation of the origin of the word "crests" in Act 5, Scene 7 of myShakespeare's Macbeth. 

Macbeth

As easy mayst thou the intrenchant air
With thy keen sword impress as make me bleed.
Let fall thy blade on vulnerable crests;
I bear a charmed life which must not yield
To one of woman born.

Macduff

Macbeth

Macduff

Macbeth

[Macbeth and Macduff exit, fighting. Trumpets sound the signal for retreat. Malcolm, Siward, Ross, and other thanes enter to the sound of a military band, surrounded by their banners]

Malcolm

Siward

Malcolm

Ross

Siward

Ross

Siward

Ross

Siward

Malcolm

Siward

[Re-enter Macduff with Macbeth's head]

Macduff

All

[Trumpets sound]

Malcolm

[Trumpets. All exit.]
Video Transcript: 

RALPH: The word “Crest” derives from the latin word crista. In English, as well as in Latin, it refers to the tuft of feathers or hair on an animal’s head. 
DAVINA: Because these crests give the animal an appearance of pride and self-confidence, military figures used feathers as ornaments on their helmets. 
RALPH: Shakespeare is referring to that practice when he uses “crest” metaphorically to stand for the helmet itself.