Macbeth Leadership Qualities

Does being a person with good leadership skills come in an instructions manual? No, people are born with leadership skills, but some people are able to take advantage of those skills better than others. William Shakespeare’s Macbeth showcases a character with astonishing qualities fit for a great leader, and his name is Malcom. He was the next in line for the throne in England, but after his father died he fled his kingdom in fear for his life, Now the time has come for him to take back what is his, and to show the world how fit he is to be the next king of Scotland. Some of his great qualities he has are loyalty, honesty, and bravery. The first example that showcases Malcolm’s loyalty is when he is speaking to Macduff. Macduff went to England in hopes of convincing Malcom to come back to Scotland, but he found that Malcolm is on the same page, “At no time broke my faith, would not betray / The devil to his fellow…” (4.3.143-144).

When Malcom uses the word “devil” he portrays that he would not even betray someone he knew was evil.

His use of that word demonstrates that great or not, he will always stick to his ruler’s side, and he will stay loyal no matter what. He also uses the words “no time broke my faith” which display that he has never been unfaithful to his beliefs. A loyal leader is always good to have because he or she will never betray his or her people. He or she will also not betray the powers he or she is given as the ruler of a nation. Another example the displays another of Malcolm’s leadership skills is when he is talking to Macduff in England. At first Malcolm lied to Macduff about his true intentions, but after he saw Macduff is trustworthy he told Macduff the truth about his plans, “…My first false speaking / Was this upon myself” (4.3.145-146).

Malcom
Martinez 2
lets Macduff know he was lying when he uses the word “false”. He explains that this was his first time lying. Any lie is considered a sin, so if this is Malcolm’s first lie than he isn’t sinful; not being sinful truly shows he is pure and honest. An honest ruler that doesn’t lie will gain great support from his or her people, and the people will know what they are really dealing with in terms of laws and war. Sometimes the government censors the news when it comes to war, but Malcom will actually keep everyone informed of what is exactly going on in his or her life. The final example that showcases Malcolm’s bravery is when he reveals his plans to Macduff. Malcolm and Macduff are talking about going back to Scotland for revenge, and Malcom reveals his plan to invade Macbeth’s castle, “…Gracious England hath / Lent us good Siward and ten thousand men” (4.3.215-216). When Malcom uses the word “gracious” when talking about England, he shows how grateful he is towards England. Malcolm is aware of what Macbeth is capable of doing, but he is brave enough to go against Macbeth. He is the leader of the army, so he demonstrates he is not afraid of war or Macbeth. He also reveals he is good at leading and commanding. Duncan is said to be one of the greatest kings of England, so like father like son. Malcolm’s leadership skills truly exhibit how great he would be as king. Leadership must and will always be what separates a great leader from a mediocre one.