(855) 4-ESSAYS

Type a new keyword(s) and press Enter to search

Macbeth


            The Tragedy of Macbeth by William Shakespeare opens with a Scottish thane, Macbeth, leading the Scots in battle with the Norwegians during the eleventh century. In a tragedy the hero suffers a downfall due to character flaws and fate. Macbeth valiantly fights and earns the title of a hero. Throughout the play, however, he takes action that sends him to disaster. Macbeth's ambition, the witches, and the influence of his wife cause his inevitable downfall.
             Macbeth is so hungry for power he unconsciously sets himself up for disaster. His thirst for the crown is something that takes over his mind. His "Vaulting ambition" is the main cause for the acts that he commits that lead to his suffering (1.7.27). His ambition is one of many temptations that influence him to viscously murder the king. Macbeth is too selfish to realize that what he is planning is only going to lead to disaster. He allows his selfishness to take over his decision making and turn him into a greedy thane. His nagging ambitions are just one of a few reasons for his plunder. .
             Three tormenting witches continuously tease Macbeth with the thought of power. They use their widely known power to trick Macbeth into believing that he will be the "King hereafter" (1.3.50). By addressing him as king they are tricking him into believing something that he shouldn't while at the same time feeding his ambitions. His drive for power is becoming stronger as they help him imagine being king. The witches also give Macbeth a false sense of security. They have three apparitions confront him and tell him that he has nothing to worry about. Macbeth is satisfied since he feels that "none of woman born Shall harm" him (4.1.80). Though the witches play a major role in influencing Macbeth, his wife is the most tempting of all. .
             Lady Macbeth manipulates Macbeth in order to make him feel as if he has to kill Duncan.


Essays Related to Macbeth


Got a writing question? Ask our professional writer!
Submit My Question