... as a wicked or evil person, or a dramatic or fictional character who is typically at odds with the hero. In the case of Macbeth, either definition may be appropriate, for Macbeth does become a wicked and evil person and by the end of the play is at odds with the hero, himself. The witches played an important part in Macbeth's fall from grace but interestingly ... unlikely that he would have murdered Duncan. It was his evil wife that drove him over the edge. Lady Macbeth would fit the description of "a villain in whom there is little to admire" very well as seen in her soliloquy. "Come y...

• Word Count: 1027
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School

... impression." Almost contradictory is the definition of "reality": "Actual being or existence, as opposed to an imaginary, idealized, or false nature." A prominent theme in Shakespeare's play Macbeth is the contrast between appearance and reality. This theme is interlaced through each act of the play. In the Act ... told by Macbeth. Macbeth is infatuated with the thought of becoming king, and dwells on the notion of becoming king. Macbeth appears to be unfazed by the prophecies so that when Duncan is murdered he will seem inculpable. During Macbeth's dagger soliloquy, he is overcome with...

• Word Count: 1772
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: High School

... very UN-lady-like, possessing more masculine qualities than feminine qualities. Lady Macduff, however, is the complete opposite of Lady Macbeth, and also exactly the 17th centuries' societies' definition of what a woman should be like; the kind, nurturing one and not the cold, ruthless, and scolding one. ... Shakespeare uses this contrast to emphasise the lack of feminine qualities in Lady Macbeth, which is vital to the drama of the play, as it is Lady Macbeth's influence, as a result of ... achieve his goal. In the end, his ambition overpowers his loyalty, though he still feels guilty...

• Word Count: 1136
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School