The Tragedy of Macbeth

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Recommended: Critically discuss whether macbeth fate is determined by the witches or his own actions

At the end of an awful, long day one might wonder what went wrong – was the universe against them? Was it a mistake on their part? What have they lost as a result? Such a scenario can be exemplified in the play Macbeth by William Shakespeare. First, outside forces influence Macbeth into making decisions he would not ordinarily make. Second, Macbeth’s transition from a revered leader to a detested king can be symbolized by the absence of nobility loyalty, and peace. Third, Macbeth’s overwhelming pride and thirst for power leads him to commit a series of crimes. The play Macbeth by William Shakespeare highlights the role of a Tragic Hero signifying that not staying true to ones core values will ultimately lead to their downfall. A number of outside forces influence Macbeth into making decisions that would not ordinarily make. Macbeth’s noble preferences of staying loyal to the throne are severed when his beliefs and manliness are jeopardized. When first informed of the witches prophesies, Macbeth is unbelieving. However, when they are fulfilled almost instantly, seeds of doubt are implemented deep inside of him. In I.iii.144-145, Macbeth says “If good, why do I yield that suggestion whose horrid image doth unfix my hair” demonstrating the impact the prophesies have on him indicting that he has begun to refute his noble beliefs and go against the throne. Comparatively, Lady Macbeth plays an extremely large role in the decisions Macbeth makes as she states in I.vii.45-48 “... Live a coward in thine own esteem letting “I dare not” wait upon “I would,” like the poor cat I’ the adage?” highlighting the pressure and shame she inflicts upon her husband in order to get him to decide. It is because of this domineering push does Macb... ... middle of paper ... ...is morals and beliefs. Betraying the foundation of what defines a person- values, beliefs and morals is the starting point of a long dark path of anguish and sorrow illustrating the role of a classic Shakespearean tragic hero. To begin with, influential forces urge Macbeth into making decisions that go against his beliefs. Furthermore, the respect and love of the citizens whom Macbeth ruled over was lost as a result of a lack of nobility and peace within him. Lastly, with pride and ambition overwhelming his noble traits, a long streak of crimes and murder cases entail Macbeth and his crown. All in all, Shakespeare’s portrayal of a tragic hero in Macbeth signifies the importance of staying true to ones beliefs no matter how much people or other “forces” say otherwise. Works Cited Roy, Ken. Macbeth. 2nd ed. Toronto: Harcourt Canada, n.d. Print. Harcourt Shakespeare.

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