Power of Guilt in Macbeth
The world is full of decisions, and everyone makes wise ones and poor ones at certain points in their life. When poor decisions are made the consequences can result in a fine, prison sentence, death, or even the feeling of guilt. A good example of the effect of guilt on individuals can be seen in Shakespeare's "Macbeth." In William Shakespeare's play, The Tragedy of Macbeth, the power of guilt is seen in Macbeth, Lady Macbeth and Macduff. The characters' guilt is due to unlawful and shameful deeds, which they have committed. Macbeth's guilt is seen throughout the play, especially after murders he has committed. Although there are many scenes that illustrate the power of guilt, three examples depict this the best. The first time that Macbeth feels guilt is after the witches prophecies. Macbeth is told that he will one day be king. "If chance will have me king, why chance may crown me, without my stir"(I.iii.142-45). With these words Macbeth is saying, if I become by chance then good if I don't it doesn't matter. "Without my stir" means without effort just like all of the other titles he has obtained. Macbeth next shows guilt in the play when he finds out that Duncan's son, Malcolm will become
"He truly believes he has murdered all innocence, and only worse things will follow. 55) "What Macbeth is referring to is his guilt. Macbeth further exposes his guilt by saying that if he tried to wash his hands in the ocean, the entire sea would turn the color of the blood too. Lady Macbeth, unlike Macbeth, has a lack of guilt at the beginning of the play. 42-44) Macbeth is frightened by the voices and believes someone knows he has killed the king. Macbeth enters into the king's bedroom and stabs the king, Duncan until he is dead. It can result, in positive acts, or just as easily however, into negative deeds. Guilt itself is a very strong and all encompassing feeling. Macduff's guilt stems from leaving his family behind unprotected for Macbeth to kill. What's the reason? The reason for this is the great amount of the guilt she has within her. "Will all great Neptune's ocean wash this blood clean from my hand? No. Macbeth has now been crowned king and he decides to have a dinner in honor of Banquo. He also admits in the scene, that after killing Duncan, his morals and guilt were poisoned and used to motivate him to commit more crimes.
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