Macbeth’s state of mind as he went to kill the king Essay Example

them as a "swelling act of imperial theme," suggesting that he is destined to become King someday.

In this statement, Shakespeare likens Macbeth's life to a book with a prologue that provides background or foreshadows events. This shows Macbeth's anticipation of enjoying rewards without effort, increasing his desire. However, reality interrupts his imagination. He becomes confused by unsettling thoughts, asking why he is yielding to the supernatural solicitation that horrifies him and disturbs his physical reactions. He realizes the abominable act he may have to commit to achieve his goal. The unnatural state of his body, such as goosebumps and an erratic heartbeat, indicates anxiety or fear. This abnormal state is further exemplified by his thoughts, which immobilize him. He decides that if fate intends to crown him king, it will happen without his intervention. However, everything changes when Malcolm, the King's son, is announced as the future ruler.

The protagonist initially considers leaving his actions to chance but ultimately resumes his previous thoughts. These thoughts are reiterated during his soliloquy and while planning Duncan's murder with his wife, as he weighs his options. He acknowledges Duncan's exceptional rule and humble nature, yet recognizes his own driving force as "vaulting ambition" to commit the crime. He implores the stars to hide their brightness, symbolically representing his desire for secrecy. The wife further questions his masculinity by suggesting that carrying out the act would make him more of a man. She compares him to a cat in an adage, illustrating cowardice in wanting the reward without any costs. This assault on his manhood ultimately propels him to assassinate Duncan.

Macbeth's need to validate himself, either personally or to Lady

Macbeth, in defiance of his better sense, leads him to temporarily overlook the character and repercussions of his actions and aspirations. This is perceived as the supreme exploitation of opportunity. Shakespeare skillfully portrays Macbeth's pivotal moment through his creative manipulation of language, narrative structure, and the impact from other characters. The witches plant the seed, Macbeth harbors the ambition, Malcolm's impending reign propels him further into action while Lady Macbeth stokes the flames until there's no turning back. Shakespeare implies that both supernatural entities and human factors are required for a sin or malevolent act to take place. This prompts us to ask: Is only Macbeth accountable for Duncan's demise? If yes, does it suggest humans are naturally wicked or could it be due to societal or cultural influences? Moreover, if these influences can be taught rather than ingrained, what defines whether an act is good or evil? Does it depend on anticipated outcome or faced consequences?