Commentary on Macbeth Essay

Macbeth

The story of Macbeth is a good example of tragic story. There are many factors which contribute to Macbeths downfall and demise. His greatness and bravery in battle for his country ultimately leads him to be a great thane and eventually a powerful king, making his actions have a significant impact on a country. Macbeths ambition on becoming a king leads to an obsession to remain in his current position. His ambition comes to a point where he falls to the temptation of evil which leads to Macbeths inevitable downfall. At the beginning of the play, Macbeth is portrayed as a brave man whose performance in Scotlands battle is celebrated.

The prophecies which were told by the 3 witches were Macbeths first factor to him becoming a tragic hero. Macbeth was told by the 3 witches that he was to be The thane of Cawdor and King of Scotland. This prophesies interested Macbeth and clouded his decision making. Macbeth soon thought about how he could become king. Macbeth was impatient and wanted to become king faster. Macbeth relies and believes in them for direction throughout the play.

Another big influence to Macbeth becoming a tragic hero is his wife Lady Macbeth. Lady Macbeth wanted nothing more than to be the wife of the king. Lady Macbeth's character in the opening scenes of the play shows her as a kind and loving person. Even when she was going to kill Duncan she couldnt do it because it reminded her of her father. This shows she did care deep down in her heart. Lady Macbeth plays an important role in this play because she provided a scheme which caused Macbeth to kill Duncan. Lady Macbeth introduces murder to Duncan. Macbeth's first murder was a rough experience for him, however after the first murder; killing seemed to be the only solution to maintain his throne and his reign as king.

Macbeth changes from a brave, courageous, and loyal man to an evil being. His ambition and his sole belief in the witches prophecies brought Macbeth to his tragic end as well as others. The fatal end of a fine natured person leads to the conclusion that Macbeth is indeed a tragic hero. Shakespeare is trying to show how greediness can lead to death. Macbeth shows how over ambition is not good and can cause a downfall even for a hero.