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The Tragic Hero

In the seventeenth century Shakespearian production of Macbeth, William Shakespeare portrays the character of Macbeth as a tragic hero. The character of Macbeth goes through many different changes throughout the coarse of the play. In the opening acts, Macbeth is seen as a brave, noble, and loyal man. He is very highly respected by many, and holds a very high social stature. As the play continues and changes, so does the character of Macbeth. He begins to be too ambitious, which will later prove to be the cause of his downfall.

Macbeth’s social stature is an example of why he is viewed as a tragic hero. He battles bravely against the Norwegians, and receives a great amount of gratitude from Duncan when word of his courageousness reaches him. “No more that thane of Cawdor shall deceive our bosom interest. Go pronounce his present death, and with his former title greet Macbeth” (I, 2, 65-68). In saying this Duncan rewards Macbeth by bestowing the title of Thane of Cawdor upon him. This is an indication of the nature of respect that the people have for Macbeth…”and everyone did bear thy praises in his kingdom’s great defense, and pour’d them down before him” (I, 3, 98-100). This statement further shows

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In the closing scenes of the play Malcolm and his army seek Macbeth to avenge all of the wrong doings that Macbeth has committed as he worked his way up to the top. Each one of his actions makes him much more responsible for his death. Macbeth feels that to accomplish his goals and fulfill his ambition, he must achieve them by using evil. Macbeth fights bravely, but proves to be no match for Malcolm and Macduff. After the murder of Duncan, Macbeth allows his ambition to become him. Not only do his changes cause him to lose respect, friendship, and a sense of morality; it also causes him to lose his own life. In this statement, Macbeth and his wife are attempting to conceal their false hearts behind their false faces to hide their true intentions. This clearly is evidence of a flaw in Macbeth’s character.

Macbeths' ambition became to great, and stealing the throne became the only thing that was important to him. After Macbeth kills young Siward he feels almost invincible, but he does not know of the events that are to occur. “Thou wouldst be great, art thou without ambition, but without the illness should attend it. In act III scene 3 the order from Macbeth to kill Banquo is fulfilled, and Macbeth regains his security. The changes in Macbeths' character are clearly evident, as he changes from good to evil.

Approximate Word count = 842
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

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