Macbeth21
In William Shakespeare's Macbeth, the hero evolves tragically from "valour's minion1" who saved his country from invaders, to a "tyrant2", who had children murdered to secure his power. By definition, a tragic hero, such as Macbeth, is ruined by a fatal flaw. It is not the heart of an evil man, but rather political ambition and misplaced confidence, combined with a weakness to manipulation, that fuel this weak character's demise. Initially, Macbeth does not harbour malevolent intentions. He is "Belloma's bridegroom3", a war hero viewed most admirably by his comrades and superiors. Loyal Macbeth lays his life on the line for his king and his country, hardly seeming like one who would commit regicide. In contrast to this display of fortitude, Macbeth exhibits weakness during his first encounter with the weird sisters. Greeting Macbeth as Thane of Cawdor and king, the witches spark his restless ambition. Unlike Banquo, who declares one who trusts such prophecy "takes reason prisoner4", Macbeth is tempted by their news, and begs to know more. Upon receiving the title Thane of Cawdor, Macbeth's impulsive side surfaces for the first time as he entertains thoughts "whose murder is yet fantastical5". However, he does no
In the face of impending death, Macbeth shows self-disgust, remorse and loneliness. Macbeth's desperate need to see the weird sisters once more can be attributed to a fear of his fate. It is now obvious that Macbeth feels he has changed drastically for the worse. The "sorry sight8" of bloody hands upon having murdered Duncan brings about the first hint of madness in Macbeth as his conscience grapples with his ruthlessness. The two implicate themselves in a plot to murder Duncan. His desires are so uncontrollable that the slightest justification of an evil deed will drive him to do it. Exploiting their situation for the betterment of his, he is evolving from a selfless soldier to a greedy despot.
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