When the plays of Shakespeare are described as "for all time" or "of a timeless quality," they are referring to the accurate description of the human psyche that holds true today. Shakespeare's works were written long ago, and in many cases set even before that. When the reader can overcome the aspects contemporary to the time the plays were written, such as the language and incorporation of the supernatural, he/she will find traits of the characters to carry over to modern times with out an explanation to be necessary. In the play "Macbeth" many of these traits are the only means of relating to the story on any level.
             To open act I scene 3, the witches sarcastically give praise to Macbeth, and proclaim "hail, Macbeth that shall be king hereafter." This plants the seed of ambition, which in his mind outweighs the risk and moral objection of murder. Lady Macbeth is also guilty of letting her dire need to be a queen, by the way she receives the letter from Macbeth in act I scene 5, and the news of Duncan's arrival. The need to "be on top" was then, and still is a driving force in the actions we take, and often will lead us to commit horrible acts.
             The concept of loyalty, how it is earned, how it is lost, and why it is so important, is prevalent throughout the play. Macbeth, through his help in battle, and general willingness to do anything for his king earn him a place among the lords of Scotland. He is praised throughout the beginning, form act I scene1 to scene 4. Once blame appears around Macbeth, his friends all seem to abandon him. Although he was guilty, merely suspecting him should not have lead to his sentencing. Abandonment based on circumstances or words out of context is common today.
             A mans ego, or the threat upon "manhood" has the same effect then as it would now. In act I scene 5 Lady Macbeth u
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