Temptation
William Shakespeare in his tragic play Macbeth written in 1603 dramatizes the engulfing power of temptation which ultimately ends in blood and chaos. Temptation is a huge part of Macbeth. The temptation of gaining power is the biggest reason. Like in Act I Scene V when Macbeth is tempted to kill the king. In Macbeth temptation is an important motif that permeates the dramatic structure. Shakespeare uses temptation to complicate, intrigue, and to dramatize the play. This motif serves to dramatize the way power effects peoples decisions.
Initially, Temptation is used as a reason to do anything to become king. For example, in act I scene III the witches tell him that he will be thane of Cawdor, Glamis, and all. He does not believe it at first because the Thane of Glamis is still alive, but when he finds out that he is now the thane of Glamis he starts to think hey maybe Ill become king too. The most dramatic use of this motif is found in Act I scene V before the king comes over for dinner. Lady Macbeth persuades him to kill the king so he can be king. This temptation actually makes him do the dirty deed.
Not only does Shakespeare use temptation as a means to gain power, but he also uses it as means to keep all the power. For example, Act III scene I, Macbeth says our fears in Banquo run deep and in his royalty of nature. This means that Macbeth is scared Banquo will do what he did to King Duncan so his family can hold the throne. Macbeth doesnt want any of Banquos kids to become king. Macbeth calls some murderers over to his house to get rid of Banquo and his son. Apparently, the temptation to stay king means he will do anything even kills his friend and his son. Macbeth is a sad man he will do anything if he is tempted to.
The most significant aspect of this motif, however, is the chaos and killing. For example in Act IV Scene III Malcolm and Macduff are talking about how evil Macbeth is. They are tempted to kill him. Malcolm wants to become king. Just like Macbeth he will kill to gain power. Macbeth is evil and needs to die. He is tempted to kill anyone he is threatened by. So they go to the castle and Macduff kills Macbeth. Macduff gets revenge for Macbeth killing his family.
The play is important because it is a great tragic play and is so old. The play is also important, because it is written by William Shakespeare. Temptation is important because it causes so much chaos in the play. Temptation of gaining power is huge and can make you kill and betray your best friend. Temptation helps make the play so tragic. Temptation can get the best of anyone.
Already have an account? Log In Now
3053