Macbeth Tragic Hero Essay

Shakespeare's portrayal of the character Macbeth, can be described as a classic tragic hero by definition of aristotle. Due to the high position Macbeth played, which led his unchecked ambition, thus resulting in the downfall of his reign and creating a sense of self reflection proves Macbeth is a tragic hero. According to aristotle’s description of a tragic hero and the patterns shown in “Macbeth” it is evident that the character macbeth is a classic example of a tragic hero. Aristotle describes a tragic hero as someone that holds a high power. In comparison, Shakespeare writes the character of Macbeth to be a noble king. Shakespeare’s play begins with Macbeth as a noble young man that will reign as royal king. The witches come to Banquo and Macbeth to reveal

In addition Banquo states, “my noble partner you greet with present grace and great prediction of noble having and of royal hope” (I. 3 54-58). Banquo refers to Macbeth as a “noble” partner, giving him a name of high standards. In addition, he states that Macbeth has a “great prediction of noble having and of royal hope”. By this, Shakespeare reveals Macbeth’s character as a king and one who holds high authority. In correspondence, Aristotle describes a tragic hero as a character of, “noble stature and has greatness”. In addition Aristotle’s description of a tragic hero is someone who occupies a “high status position”. Macbeth’s status as king can be described directly as a “high status position” revealing he has the first attribute of a tragic hero. Macbeth’s thought and remorse mindset between Duncan's murder and Banquo’s murder reveals that the high position led Macbeth to have an unchecked ambition. Aristotle’s belief of a tragic hero is one who is not perfect. Although Macbeth’s character in the beginning of the play seemed to be the perfect fit