Macbeth's Ambition
Macbeth
In Shakespeare�s �Macbeth�, Shakespeare explores the effect of ambition on a character. Ambition is shown to be a fundamental theme throughout Act one as well as a recurring theme throughout the play. As in the case of tragic dramas, the protagonist, Macbeth, is first recognised as a well respected hero, but due to his own evil ambition, which, ultimately, is shown to be a serious flaw in his character and a corrupting force, falls from a position of great honour or power to his destruction and shame.
The audience realises Macbeth�s ambition from a very early stage in the play from his aggressive and courageous fight at the battle, against the rebels, to earn the King�s ...
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prophecies. Macbeth expresses his enthusiasm to hear more of this �strange intelligence� and wishes �they had stayed�; on the contrary, Banquo is palpably more cautious and wonders if both Macbeth and he have �eaten on the insane root�. By illustrating how eager and prepared Macbeth is to trust the witches, who, in Shakespearean times were considered to be enemies of society, Shakespeare stresses Macbeth�s ambition which noticeably contrasts with Banquo�s sensible and doubtful reaction. Shakespeare�s use of allowing Macbeth to talk �aside� about Duncan�s �murder� which, although now is �fantastical�, makes the audience realise that Macbeth is already strategising.
When Duncan declares that his son, Malcolm, is to become King, Macbeth immediately sees Malcolm as a �step on which [he] must fall down, or o�erleap�. By conspiring against Duncan and Malcolm, Shakespeare reveals how Macbeth�s ambition causes him to change from loyal to treacherous. However, Macbeth is aware that by ...
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Macbeth's Ambition. (2012, May 14). Retrieved April 21, 2025, from http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Macbeths-Ambition/100989
"Macbeth's Ambition." Essayworld.com. Essayworld.com, 14 May. 2012. Web. 21 Apr. 2025. <http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Macbeths-Ambition/100989>
"Macbeth's Ambition." Essayworld.com. May 14, 2012. Accessed April 21, 2025. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Macbeths-Ambition/100989.
"Macbeth's Ambition." Essayworld.com. May 14, 2012. Accessed April 21, 2025. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Macbeths-Ambition/100989.
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