In Shakespeare's plays one of the main themes is the theme of vengence and the need of the characters to protect their family honor. In hamlet and Macbeth the theme of vengence is illustrated through Hamlet and Macduff. These characters are faced with the dilemma of having to avenge their enemies who have recently hurt their family or family's name. Vengeance for the sake of family honor causes great destruction throughout both Hamlet and Macbeth and causes many more people to become caught up in this circle of destruction.