The excessive desire to possess power beyond the necessary can be summarized in one word – greed. Even the humblest of hearts is instilled with some form of it. It can manipulate thoughts and lead them into irrationality. If nourished, greed can change a man's nature. Macbeth displays the power of greed in William Shakespeare's play "Macbeth." Greed influences the transformation of the once courageous Macbeth into an evil, corrupted man.
             Before the transformation occurs, Macbeth is known not only for his bravery but also for his gentle heart. Duncan, King of Scotland, proclaims Macbeth as a "valiant cousin" and a "worthy gentleman" when he learns of Macbeth's victories in the battle. Through his successes, Macbeth fulfills his responsibilities, whereas others might have hid from their obligations to defend their country. People nobler than Macbeth admire his qualities. The community respects his strengths and gives him his due credit. Macbeth is his community's hope for a prosperous future. Furthermore, Lady Macbeth describes him as being too kindhearted to commit a crime. Macbeth cares for others just as much he does himself. Even with his well respected abilities as a warrior, Macbeth manages to stay humble. His natural instinct is to show affection towards others. The brave and gentle Macbeth, however, is not out of the grasp of greed.
             Macbeth begins on his trail on corruptness when the witches nourish his greedy aspirations of becoming the King of Scotland. When the witches tell him that he will soon be the Thane of Glamis, Thane of Cawdor, and eventually the king, Macbeth entertains the idea of overthrowing Duncan. He is so fascinated by the thought of becoming that king that he forgets his prior convictions to his country. He does not take into consideration how others might be affected by his own pursuit of happiness. Macbeth was not satisfied with
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