Macbeth's Demise

Essay # 58186

Drama and Theater > English
Literature > English
Shakespeare > MacBeth

Macbeth's Demise

Discusses how Shakespeare's character, Macbeth, is entirely responsible for his own tragic demise.

1,192 words () | 0 sources | 2005 Australia

Paper Summary:

A discussion of the contributing factors to the demise of one of Shakespeare's most controversial characters. Includes an analysis of Macbeth's character, supernatural forces, and Lady Macbeth.

From the Paper:

"Macbeth, arguably one of Shakespeare's bloodiest characters has numerous inherent flaws, the three most apparent being self-doubt, ambition and a tendency to violence. These fatal traits are demonstrated early in the text when the reader first encounters Macbeth on the battlefield, having presumably murdered many of his Norwegian opponents in the name of his country. He is presented as a "brave" General, who is praised and greatly rewarded for his ability at the front. The audience quickly realises that Macbeth is a capable solider with a natural ability in and tendency toward war and violence. His second fatal flaw becomes evident soon after, when Macbeth is confronted by the "weird sisters." His delight and excitement at their prophecies, naming him Cawdor and King is obvious, though the nature of the prophecies themselves at first draw scorn. Once the first has been fulfilled however, and Macbeth is awarded the title Thane of Cawdor for his military efforts, the idea of becoming King is far more tangible and exciting for Macbeth. The audience notes the way it consumes his thoughts when he is distracted from conversation with his fellow Thanes and also that he lies about his thoughts, claiming "nothing" to be the subject of his internal contemplation. This is confirmation for the audience that the suggestion of Kinship is greatly appealing to Macbeth and has an almost instantaneous negative impact upon his character, encouraging him to deceit amongst friends. Macbeth's ambition is a constant theme throughout the play, continuing to develop as he arrives home to plot Duncan's murder with hi wife. His desire for power is soon coupled with an implantation of self-doubt and insecurity, the combined effects of which lead him to continue to kill in order to retain his royal position."