Macbeth, corruption of power Essay Example
Macbeth, corruption of power Essay Example

Macbeth, corruption of power Essay Example

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  • Pages: 4 (830 words)
  • Published: December 14, 2018
  • Type: Paper
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"Those who foolishly seek power by riding on the back of the tiger often end up inside." - John F. Kennedy. When individuals attain positions of authority, their perception of control often leads to a disregard for responsibility in making decisions that negatively impact others. This is when power corrupts their minds, fueled by greed and deception, exerting a dangerous influence that devastates lives and undermines social connections. The powerful may resort to falsehoods, bribery, scams, or theft to obtain whatever they desire. Consequently, anyone in power can become a formidable adversary. Corruption has become a global issue as the pursuit of personal gain is inherently logical but rapidly spirals out of control. To bring about change, a corrupt individual must relinquish power and transform into an unassuming figure. However, this cycle persists as replacing the corrupt with fair

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and just leaders eventually succumb to corruption as well. Shakespeare's "Macbeth" provides numerous examples of corruption in this regardLady Macbeth was thrilled upon learning that Macbeth had become Thane of Cawdor and was determined to secure her husband's rise to power through murder, blackmail, and deceit after being informed by witches that Macbeth would become king. This story illustrates corruption as Lady Macbeth's hunger for power grew stronger. The corruption continued when Macbeth himself ordered the assassination of his companion Banquo now that he was king. Macbeth's betrayal stemmed from his fear that Banquo's son, Fleance, would inherit the throne. This action aroused suspicions in the kingdom and drove Macbeth to madness out of guilt, similar to Lady Macbeth.
Those in positions of power often believe they are invincible but eventually face consequences. As the saying goes

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"What goes around, comes around," which perfectly applies to Macbeth. Lady Macbeth played a significant role in all the killings that could have been avoided if she hadn't pressured him into assassinating the king.Thane of Cawdor was not enough for her;she aspired to become Scotland's most powerful figure after the king.Her insatiable greed for power knew no bounds.
In today's society, corruption often reigns over those occupying high ranks of global leadership.Examples include Mohamed Suharto - President of Indonesia (1967-1998), Joseph Estrada - President of Philippines (1998-2001), but none parallel the story of Macbeth more prominently than Adolf Hitler - German Dictator (1933-1945).Adolf Hitler, born on April 20, 1889 in Braunau Austria just beyond Germany's border, was a German dictator and revolutionary. Despite his troubled academic career, he left school at age 16 following his father's death in 1903. When World War I started, he joined the German army voluntarily and served as a messenger on the Western front during some of its bloodiest battles. He was wounded twice during the war and received treatment in a military hospital until Germany surrendered in 1918.

Afterward, Hitler became part of a nationalistic group called the German Workers Party, which he later renamed as the National Socialist German Workers Party or Nazi Party for short. Eventually rising to become their leader, Hitler orchestrated numerous exterminations and assassinations to eliminate rival parties within Germany. By 1929, with support from influential and feared individuals, Hitler and the Nazis began rapidly gaining power.

On January 30, 1933, Hitler became Chancellor of Germany. Within months, through forceful suppression of opposition groups, he established himself as a dictator. Comparatively speaking to Macbeth's life story, both

Hitler and Macbeth attained their own power through murder and blackmail; however, they couldn't avoid attracting enemies or experiencing guilt and redemption along their paths. It is often those who oppose corrupt regimes that ultimately bring about their downfall.In the play by Shakespeare, Macbeth is killed by Macduff, who seeks revenge for his murdered family. This leads to the restoration of order with the rightful heir taking the throne. Similarly, Hitler's overreaching ambitions quickly lead to his defeat and eventual suicide. However, both of these events ultimately result in restoration and improvement. It is clear that individuals who possess even a small amount of power often desire more and will do whatever it takes to elevate themselves. Are only the foolish ones actively seeking out dangerous traps without considering the consequences? Regardless, it is almost certain that those who ride on the back of the tiger... Comparing Hitler and Macbeth reveals remarkable similarities in their lives. Both gain power through murder and manipulation, creating enemies and grappling with feelings of guilt or redemption. Ultimately, it is usually righteous forces opposing corrupt regimes that overthrow tyrannical rule. In Macbeth's case, he meets his demise at the hands of Macduff seeking revenge for his family's murder. Order is restored as the rightful heir ascends to the throne. Similarly, Hitler's aggressive pursuits lead to certain defeat and his own suicide, resulting in restoration and progress. This serves as evidence that those who experience power are often driven to seek more through any means necessary.

The question that arises is whether pursuing power without considering future consequences is merely foolish.

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