Defining Macbeth in William Shakespeares Play Essay

Defining Macbeth in William Shakespeares Play The character of Macbeth is a classic example of a Shakespearean tragic hero. There are many factors, which contribute to the degeneration of Macbeth of which three will be discussed. The three points, which contribute greatly to Macbeths degeneration, are the prophecies, which were told to him by the witches, Lady Macbeths influence and manipulation of Macbeths judgment, and finally Macbeths long time ambition which drove his desire to be king. Under these influences Macbeths character degenerates from a noble, brave, loyal man to violent, murdering, tyrant individual. The prophecies, told by the witches, were one of the factors, which†¦show more content†¦Lady Macbeth tells her husband, When Duncan is asleep, his two chamberlains Will I with wine and wassail, so convince, When in swinish sleep Their drenched natures lie, as in a death, What cannot you and I perform upon The unguarded Duncan? Macbeth is in struggle with his conscience but is goaded by Lady Macbeth to proceed with the murder when she questions his manhood. Macbeths image of himself forces him to reply, I dare do all that may become a man; Who dares do more, is none As soon as Macbeth has performed the treasonous deed he immediately regrets his wrongdoing. At this point of the play the audience can note the change in Macbeths character. Macbeths first murder was a trying experience for him, however after the first murder; killing seemed to be the only solution to maintain his reign of the people of Scotland. Therefore, it was Lady Macbeth who introduced the concept of murder to Macbeth as the shortest way to obtain the crown that was prophesied by the witches. Macbeths ambition also influenced his journey form hero to villain. However, Macbeths ambition had not been strong enough for him to kill the King. He declares, I have no spur To prick the sides of my intent but only Vaulting ambition whichShow MoreRelatedWilliam Shakespeare s Macbeth And The Human Condition1292 Words   |  6 PagesWilliam Shakespeare’s plays have been analysed and studied for hundreds of years. They are an iconic aspect of human history and are considered by many, even today, to be timeless classics. But how is it that stories written centuries ago continue to maintain so much relevance in modern society? Hello and welcome to today’s public forum; Shakespeare – its relevance in our world today. Shakespeare’s ability to capture the essence of the human condition, the key characteristics and ideals that composeRead MoreEvil And Evil In Macbeth908 Words   |  4 Pagesfor them by these forces. In William Shakespeares play Macbeth, evil is the driving force that leads the play forward, and the main character Macbeth to his demise. 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