Sad, Bad, or Mad? Do You Consider Macbeth to Be a Tragic Hero, Evil, or Bewitched? Essay Example
Sad, Bad, or Mad? Do You Consider Macbeth to Be a Tragic Hero, Evil, or Bewitched? Essay Example

Sad, Bad, or Mad? Do You Consider Macbeth to Be a Tragic Hero, Evil, or Bewitched? Essay Example

Available Only on StudyHippo
  • Pages: 15 (3851 words)
  • Published: November 10, 2017
  • Type: Essay
View Entire Sample
Text preview

The idea of tragic heroes requires them to begin as virtuous individuals, but possess flaws that enable the audience to identify with them and inevitably lead to their downfall. In Macbeth, the witches appear for the first time and reveal their plan to meet with Macbeth. The initial witch inquires about their next meeting, which is answered by the third witch indicating a future encounter with Macbeth.

The witches' plotting of Macbeth's fate indicates that he is already headed for tragedy. Tragic heroes experience misfortune as a result of their own flawed decisions or character traits such as ambition or greed. The hero must acknowledge their mistakes, which elicits sympathy from the audience. Additionally, the audience experiences fear because they know that the character's choice sets them on an irreversible path towards evi

...

l.

According to Aristotle's theory of tragedy, the audience should feel both pity and fear, and the tragic events cannot be stopped until they run their course and restore natural order. The fact that the historical Macbeth reigned for 17 years between 1005-1057 suggests that he was a successful king who promoted peace and order.

Macbeth was buried in Iona, which was the customary burial ground for Scottish kings. After Macbeth's death, his son, Lulach, became king but was only able to reign for one year due to being known as 'Simple.' Banquo is a real character in the play and played a role in the murder of Duncan, although his character was altered. James believed that he had origins that traced back to Banquo. Shakespeare decided to write a Scottish play in 1603 to impress James I (who was already James VI of Scotland), a

View entire sample
Join StudyHippo to see entire essay

he believed in the divine right of kings.

If one kills monarchs, they will meet a terrible fate as it was considered a sin against God. Witches were often linked to death and James was captivated by them, firmly believing in their existence. This interest led him to write Daemonology, a book aimed at combatting witchcraft. In 1590, Dr. Fran and the coven of Berwick witches were subjected to torture until they confessed.

Shakespeare modified historical figures and occurrences in a play meant to satisfy the new monarch. Initially, Macbeth presents various personas. He displays great military prowess, "Like valour's minion carved out his passage/Till he faced the slave," portraying both fierceness and bravery. While Macbeth may be seen as a murderer, he can also be regarded as an honorable individual carrying out his responsibilities for his nation and ruler.

Macbeth was generally respected, as attested by the phrase ‘Worthy gentleman!’ Just prior to meeting the witches, Macbeth says: ‘So foul and fair a day I have not seen.’ Meanwhile, in scene 1, the witches have already proclaimed: ‘Fair is foul, and foul is fair.’ This indicates that there may already be a connection between Macbeth and the witches, which supports the notion that he is later bewitched. Although initially skeptical and questioning, Macbeth also shows eagerness to learn more from the witches: ‘Tell me more.’

'Would they had stayed…' Macbeth expressed his hope and faith in the witches' predictions, despite having just encountered them. The moment when Macbeth becomes Thane of Cawdor is significant as it is when he begins to believe in the witches' words and starts contemplating the idea of killing Duncan: 'My thought, whose murder

yet is but fantastical.' Macbeth is merely fantasizing about the positive outcomes of murdering Duncan, without any basis in reality.

The role played by the witches in Macbeth's decision to kill Duncan and take over the throne is a subject of debate. While some believe that they were responsible for planting the idea in his head, others argue that Macbeth already had such thoughts and vulnerabilities, which the witches merely exploited. Before meeting with them, he was renowned for his courage on the battlefield, indicating his admiration and loyalty towards the king. This implies that murder was not initially on his mind. Nevertheless, Lady Macbeth made it her mission to convince him otherwise. She recognized her power over him despite societal gender roles and used her persuasive language to sway him.

Lady Macbeth requests to be transformed into a man, asking "unsex me here and fill me from the crown to the toe topfull of direst cruelty...". Her intense words contrast with Macbeth's, making him appear comparatively good. Lady Macbeth's ambition drives her without consideration, while Macbeth thinks and deliberates before making a decision. Eventually, Macbeth decides against going through with it, fearing the consequences of his actions: "If th'assassination Could trammel up, the consequences..." This shows that Macbeth still has a moral conscience and understands that what he plans to do is wrong. He states that teaching others to be violent will ultimately lead to destruction.

Macbeth acknowledges that evil deeds often result in consequences for the doer, causing him to contemplate whether or not to proceed. He is mindful of the potential repercussions and his moral compass is intact, as he recognizes the gravity

of the situation.

Macbeth has multiple reasons for not wanting to kill the king. He acknowledges his loyalty and duty towards Duncan as a kinsman and subject, as well as his role as a host. Macbeth's respect for the king and appreciation for his leadership is evident in his statement, "So clear in his great office." These points demonstrate that Macbeth is not necessarily evil, contrary to some arguments. The audience may also develop a newfound respect for him compared to Act 1, Scene 4 when Macbeth deceitfully interacts with Duncan. Although he exaggerates his respect for Duncan when he claims that fulfilling his service and loyalty pays itself, Macbeth appears confident that he will not follow through with killing the king.

The resemblance of Macbeth to a tragic hero can be attributed to his recognition of the enormity of his actions and his decision to pursue them nonetheless. Lady Macbeth employs harsh and exaggerated language to convince Macbeth, even making him feel guilty with comments like ‘And live a coward in thine own esteem.’ Her tactic involves accusing Macbeth of not loving her when he expresses reluctance to commit regicide. Despite societal norms of male dominance, Lady Macbeth remains in control and speaks to Macbeth with contempt.

I believe that a primary factor prompting Macbeth to yield to Lady Macbeth is his desire to refute her accusations and demonstrate his masculinity by proving he is not a coward. Lady Macbeth challenges him, saying "When you durst do it, then you were a man. And to be more than what you were, you would Be so much more the man," essentially claiming that she possesses more manly qualities

than he does.

Although Macbeth was praised for his bravery in battle, he may have felt uneasy about himself after Lady Macbeth revealed her wicked and depraved nature by using gruesome language to persuade him. Lady Macbeth spoke from a position of strength, displaying no hesitation or fear, and even appeared enthusiastic about their plans. She claimed to have experience with tenderly loving a breastfeeding baby, but said she would rip its nipple from its soft gums and smash its brain while it smiled up at her. Despite these disturbing words, Macbeth does not appear as evil in comparison.

Lady Macbeth successfully persuades Macbeth to commit the deed, despite his initial reluctance. He ultimately agrees in order to avoid further insults from her, acknowledging her strong influence over him and weariness from her incessant pressuring. In his own words, he is "settled and bend[s] up Each corporal agent to this terrible feat." This moment highlights the need for deception as they must hide their true intentions behind a false face so as not to arouse suspicion.

Macbeth acknowledges the difficulty of concealing Lady Macbeth's plan and admits to having a "false heart." However, Lady Macbeth's persuasion leaves him uneasy and anxious, evident when he hallucinates a dagger and when he responds to Banquo's inquiry with the ironic statement, "A friend." This irony suggests the audience's prior knowledge of Macbeth's later actions towards Banquo and his questionable loyalty.

It appears that Macbeth is experiencing feelings of unrest, as evidenced by his deceit towards Banquo regarding the three witches. If Macbeth's intentions were sincere, there would be no justification for his falsehood. Additionally, Macbeth's statement of '...' suggests further evidence

of his inner turmoil.

It's possible that the character's lack of preparation reflects their apprehension towards the plan to kill Duncan.

Macbeth is shown to lack confidence and feel highly anxious. When he perceives the presence of a dagger, there are various possibilities. It could be interpreted as evidence of his deteriorating mental state or an illusion created by the witches. Macbeth's words suggest a preoccupation with supernatural phenomena and a profound disruption of the natural order, which aligns with the witches' influence. The line "Nature seems dead and wicked dreams abuse the curtained sleep" implies that dreams, typically a positive experience associated with rest and comfort, have been corrupted.

Sleep is crucial for clear thinking, but Macbeth referred to it as his victim after he killed Duncan. According to the character, his dreams after the murder were unpleasant and wicked, suggesting that sleep felt more like torment than repose. This may explain Macbeth's subsequent erratic actions in the play.

Macbeth is preoccupied with death, as evidenced by his comparison to the supernatural ability of ghosts to pass through walls. Despite his doubt about committing murder, the audience cannot determine if Macbeth is fundamentally good or evil, as he is acutely aware of the wickedness of such an act. Although Macbeth has a virtuous side, his hesitation about killing Duncan has left him conflicted and unconcerned.

Shakespeare included the ringing of a bell as a significant factor in Macbeth's decision-making process. It appears that the bell is urging him to act, signifying the finalizing of his decision. Macbeth declares, "I go, and it is done: the bell invites me."

Macbeth's short and final words are clear evidence that

he intends to murder Duncan, which contrasts with his previous indecisiveness. Macbeth is no longer struggling to decide, despite knowing deep down that what he is doing is wrong. Lady Macbeth also displays a vulnerable and mournful side, stating that she could not bring herself to kill Duncan because of his resemblance to her father when he slept: "Had he not resembled my father as he slept, I had done't."

This indicates that Lady Macbeth does not possess as much toughness and masculinity as she presents herself to have. However, some may argue that she is simply providing excuses in order to avoid carrying out the task herself. Macbeth, after having completed the act, does not appear content or relieved. He looks at his hands and remarks, "This is a sorry sight."

Lady Macbeth's words are foolish as she speaks as if nothing has happened and everything will go back to normal. Macbeth, however, feels separated from God as he could not even utter the word "Amen," which could suggest that he is under a spell.

Macbeth's potential guilt over killing Duncan suggests that he is aware of the magnitude of his actions and may be a tragic hero. His admission that he feels too evil to pray elicits empathy from the audience and indicates that he still possesses some moral judgement. Macbeth's comment that he hears a voice crying out, "Sleep no more, Macbeth does murder sleep," hints that his actions have robbed him of the ability to sleep.

There are several possible explanations for Macbeth hearing voices, including madness or being bewitched. However, it is also possible that the voices are Macbeth's conscience, warning him

about his actions or expressing guilt. Lady Macbeth herself acknowledges the potential for madness, saying that their deeds should not be dwelled upon lest it drive them insane.

Macbeth and Lady Macbeth cannot disregard the consequences of their actions. Macbeth is haunted by voices that prevent him from sleeping, making it impossible for him to clear his mind. The murder will constantly haunt him and drive him insane without sleep. Remorse overwhelms Macbeth, causing him to question the point of committing such an act. He is too afraid to contemplate what he has done and cannot even bear the thought of looking back on it: "I'll go no more. I am afraid to think what I have done - Look on't again, I dare not."

Macbeth is overwhelmed with shame and desperately desires to erase his atrocities from his mind, but is unable to do so: "Clean from my hand? No - this my hand will rather the multitudinous seas incarnadine, making the green one red." He is apprehensive that he will never be able to absolve his conscience and will always be tormented by feelings of guilt. Macbeth even goes so far as to wish for Duncan's resurrection, pleading, "Wake Duncan with thy knocking. I would though couldst."

The expression of genuine regret by Macbeth for his deeds elicits sympathy for him, bolstering the notion that he qualifies as a tragic hero. Not wanting to be implicated in the murder of King Duncan, Macbeth also kills the two guards. Lady Macbeth is taken aback by this revelation and even faints, indicating her surprise. This event is particularly impactful because it took a great deal of convincing and

effort to persuade Macbeth into carrying out the act.

Despite spending time contemplating it and listing reasons not to do it, Macbeth ultimately deemed it important and killed two men without informing Lady Macbeth. He later claims to regret his actions, though he speaks of it casually.

Macbeth made the decision independently, unlike when he was influenced by the witches and Lady Macbeth. This started a series of events that included him committing three murders and being willing to kill anyone who interferes with his plans. I believe that Macbeth is responsible for starting this chain of events because he acted alone in killing the guards. When he ordered Banquo's death, it was solely to protect his own interests. As he stated, "To be thus is nothing but to be safely thus." Therefore, Macbeth is ready to sacrifice his supposed friend in order to maintain his power.

Macbeth is transforming into a monstrous character, as evidenced by his firm belief in the witches' predictions. Specifically, he fears that their prophecy about him fathering a line of future kings will come true, and he must take action to prevent it. One could argue that Macbeth is under the spell of the witches, as he trusts in their previous predictions – that he was to become Thane of Glamis, Thane of Cawdor, and eventually King – which have already proven accurate.

Macbeth shifts all accountability for Banquo's murder onto the assassins, insinuating that the action was initially their idea. In a manner reminiscent of Lady Macbeth, he undermines their masculinity by questioning their ability to tolerate the situation: "Do you find Your patience so predominant in your nature That you

can let this go?". Macbeth portrays the assailants as feeble if they fail to execute the deed; this mirrors Lady Macbeth's previous behavior before Macbeth killed Duncan: "Are you so gospelled To pray for this good man and for his issue, Whose heavy hand bowed you to the grave And beggared yours forever?". Similar to his wife, Macbeth provides alibis as to why he cannot perform the act personally: "...and thought I could With barefaced power sweep him from my sight…". Macbeth, like Lady Macbeth before him, has meticulously planned the murder and instructs the assassins: "Acquaint you with the perfect spy o’the time…". The resemblance between the two is noteworthy, as Lady Macbeth implored evil spirits to aid her in her wrongdoing ("Come, you spirits that tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here…"). By echoing her words when addressing the killers, Macbeth may be depicting himself as an associate of Lady Macbeth's wickedness.

Lady Macbeth and Macbeth both feel regret for killing Duncan as they realize that it has not benefited them in any way. Lady Macbeth articulates this by stating "Nought's had, all's spent." Despite their remorse, they continue to commit atrocious deeds because of their desire to hold onto power and possibly out of a lack of alternative options. Macbeth appears apathetic towards the severity of his actions and even expresses a desire for death with the phrase "Better be with the dead." He seems to be experiencing intense distress and displays almost disinterest in life itself.

Despite his growing inclination towards evil, Macbeth is determined to continue his path of deceit and destruction. As he confesses later in the

play, he has gone too far to turn back. This is evident in his decision not to inform Lady Macbeth about his intentions to kill Banquo, indicating his increasing independence and resolve.

MACBETH declares that a terrible deed will be carried out. LADY MACBETH inquires about the details. MACBETH advises her to remain ignorant until after the deed is done and she can then approve of it. He has swapped roles with Lady Macbeth and is now the one instigating evil. In a later scene, Macbeth is either bewitched, insane, or overwhelmed with guilt over his involvement in Banquo's murder, as evidenced by his interaction with Banquo's ghost. MACBETH denies responsibility and speaks to the ghost: "You cannot say I did it; do not shake your bloody locks at me!" LADY MACBETH is mortified by his conduct and urges everyone to leave immediately: "Good night, let's hurry."

Macbeth's life has been disturbed since the introduction of the witches. Their departure follows a different order, as shown by Macbeth when he says "Stand not upon the order of your going, but go at once." His feelings are also evident through his statement "I am in blood/ Stepped in so far that should I wade no more, / Returning were as tedious as go o’er," indicating that he finds no pleasure in his actions. Before reflecting on his deeds, Macbeth must complete many tasks. During their second encounter, it is Macbeth who seeks out the witches instead of them approaching him.

MACBETH declares that he will visit the weird sisters tomorrow, eager to learn his fate from them. His decision could suggest that he has fallen under their spell,

as he seeks out their guidance despite knowing it to be wrong. Nonetheless, it may also signify his status as a tragic hero, who must take responsibility for his choices. Once Macbeth has made a mistake, he is unable to reverse course.

Macbeth is aware that the witches are malevolent and, at the play's onset, he would likely have never considered consulting them. However, his circumstances have spiraled out of control and he realizes it. Nevertheless, he desires to know the worst that could occur. MACBETH demands, "Even till destruction sicken - answer me / To what I ask you." This illustrates Macbeth's wickedness. He adds, "Then live, Macduff, what need I fear of thee? / But yet I'll make assurance double sure. / And take a bond of fate - thou shall not live." Despite being advised against fearing Macduff, Macbeth still intends to murder him.

Macbeth's previous indecisiveness about murdering Duncan has given way to a callous nature. In Act 2 scene 1, he struggled with the decision to kill Duncan and later felt remorseful. However, his decision to murder Macduff was made swiftly upon hearing that he had fled to England. Macbeth's response, "seize upon Fife, give to th'edge o'th'sword His wife, his babes, and all unfortunate souls That trace him in his line," reflects his lack of sensitivity as he orders the deaths of Macduff's family and anyone else within his castle.

He has progressed beyond indecision and has stopped contemplating the murders. "To crown my thoughts with acts, be it thought and done." He rarely considers the matter anymore.

This displays Macbeth's immoral descent as he committed several murders for specific logical reasons

despite disregarding morality. Initially, he killed Duncan to fulfill his desire of becoming the king. Later, he eliminated the two guards to prevent them from exposing him. Additionally, Banquo's growing suspicion of Macbeth and the witches' prophecy that his sons would be kings lead to Banquo's murder. Likewise, Macbeth attempted to assassinate Fleance, Banquo's son.

Macbeth had no justification for the senseless slaughter of Lady Macduff, her children and servants. She was not responsible for Macduff's escape to England, as she was heard complaining about it to Rosse. Macbeth's actions were unmotivated and further confirm his complete transformation into a heartless murderer. The audience is moved to pity when Macbeth learns of Lady Macbeth's demise.

SEYTON tells MACBETH of the queen's death. MACBETH laments that Lady Macbeth did not die peacefully in her bed to prevent the tragic events or face the consequences of her actions. He then contemplates the meaningless nature of life, famously saying, "Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow."

Macbeth reflects on how life creeps by slowly and feels like a mere shadow of itself. His words evoke sympathy, indicating that he embodies the qualities of a tragic hero. He has become aware of the gravity of his actions and their consequences, leaving him feeling helpless. The phrases "petty pace" and "poor player" highlight that his actions have not benefited him in any way. However, upon learning about Birnam wood approaching Dunsinane, he regains a sense of composure.

Despite his own unawareness, Macbeth knew that his life was drawing to a close. Rather than giving up, he chose to fight until the end - a true display of strength. His final words were a testament to

his bravery: "Ring the alarum-bell! Blow, wind! Come, wrack! At least we’ll die with harness on our back. Yet I will try the last. Before my body, I throw my warlike shield. Lay on Macduff, and damned be him that first cries, ‘hold, enough!’" Throughout this time period, Macbeth demonstrated that he still had some pride left within himself and refused to give up entirely - in stark contrast to Lady Macbeth's surrender.

It is not definite whether Macbeth is exclusively a tragic hero, bewitched, mad, or bad. Instead, there are multiple indications to support each of these possibilities. Macbeth's choices subsequent to the killing of Duncan indicate that he could be classified as a tragic hero while the audience often sympathizes with him. Conversely, there is proof proposing that Macbeth may have been bewitched since he readily accepted the witches' words and had hallucinations and delusions. Furthermore, his behavior following the murder proposes that he could also be considered bad because he appeared indifferent to the consequences of his actions.

If the witches and Lady Macbeth had not influenced Macbeth, he would not have killed Duncan. This event marked the beginning of his downfall, and he ultimately received deserved punishment.

Get an explanation on any task
Get unstuck with the help of our AI assistant in seconds
New