Character Analysis in “Macbeth”: A Tool for Personal Development
A fool thinks himself to be wise, but a wise man knows himself to be a fool.
~William Shakespeare~
William Shakespeare is the most popular writer in the world. He is often called England’s national poet and the “Bard” (precisely, “Bard of Avon”). He was an English playwright with 54 plays. But we shouldn’t forget he was also a poet. His tragedies, such as Romeo and Juliet, Othello, and Hamlet, are a vital part of everyone’s reading list.
This also includes comedies Much Ado About Nothing and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. His works still have a significant influence on art today. That entails literature, film, and theater. Characters and quotes from his books are widely recognized around the world.
But this time, we will talk about “Macbeth”, a tragedy in five acts. Shakespeare found inspiration for this play in Chronicles of England, Scotland, and Ireland by Raphael Holinshed. It is a popular history that Shakespeare had previously used for his English History plays.
Yet, when it comes to the themes of “Macbeth”, our writer made alterations compared to the Chronicles. In this article, we will understand the book in which Macbeth and Banquo make plans to dethrone King Duncan together. In Shakespeare’s play, Macbeth considers Banquo and his descendants as his adversaries in the race for Duncan’s throne.
Adaptation of the “Macbeth” in English class
Students should read, think, and reflect on “Macbeth”. This play raises diverse questions about loyalty, power, ethics, ambitions, and greediness. Each of the characters could teach a lesson, and it’s up to students to apply those lessons in their everyday lives.
The best way to understand some books is to read carefully and take notes. However, sometimes students are unable to translate their thoughts into words. So they need help in writing essays. Edubirdie would provide essays on “Macbeth” and save them from creative block. They can hire a writer and get an original essay on any topic related to Shakespeare’s play.
Macbeth – The Soldier Who Wanted to Rule
At the beginning of the play, Macbeth is presented as a devoted and honest soldier. However, the Weird Sisters planted the seeds of ambition and greed in his heart. They told him that he would be the heir to King Duncan’s throne.
He tells the prophecy to his wife, Lady Macbeth, and eventually, he becomes a victim of her greed and desire for power. She calls him a coward and questions his masculinity. So, he decided to kill King Duncan and took over the throne. He becomes a tyrant and throws morality under his feet.
The king’s Duncan murder only set in motion a series of other crimes that the paranoia-driven Macbeth had to commit. Reading the play, we understand that our character is not capable of dealing with the consequences of his crimes. In a sense, he suffers more than his victims.
Ultimately, he loses his mind and fights against the enemy, knowing that he cannot keep the throne. Macbeth’s character can help with my homework to be modest and take responsibility for my actions. Also, it encourages students to think for themselves and not allow anyone to manipulate them.
Did you know?
Shakespeare added over 17000 words into the English language.
Banquo – The Victim of a Friendship
Banquo was Macbeth’s fellow soldier. But he was also his friend. This personality is the complete opposite of the main character of the book. He refuses to follow the path of his fellow after he hears the prophecy. Banquo teaches us about loyalty, morality, and bravery. Precisely because of these traits, his ghost haunts Macbeth.
Although, one would expect him to be haunted by the ghost of King Duncan. We learn about ethics from Banquo’s character. He remained consistent with his moral principles even when he was put to the test. Also, his skepticism in the face of witches’ prophecies indicates how important it is to think analytically.
Lady Macbeth – The Queen of Sick Ambitions
Macbeth’s bellowed wife is one of the most significant characters in this play. She contributes a key role in the development of the plot because it was, driven by her lust for power, she persuades her husband to kill King Duncan. That way, she shows that she does not allow moral principles to limit her ambitions to seize power.
Lady Macbeth is the synonym for recklessness. However, her character undergoes a dramatic change in the second part of the play. The feeling of guilt for the committed acts leads to a psychological breakdown. In this role, we see the price to be paid if we allow unhealthy ambition to guide us through life.
Macduff – a Brave Hero against Tyranny
As Banquo, Macduff was Macbeth’s friend and ally. Nevertheless, blindly believing the prophecy, Macbeth begins to doubt Macduff because he was not born naturally but by Cesarean section. That’s why he ordered Macduff’s family to be killed.
He became Macbeth’s most significant opponent. Also, to fight against his friend’s dictatorship, he wants to take revenge for the murder of his family. In his character, we recognize courage and patriotism. He feels a moral responsibility to stand against the injustice and evil that has come over Scotland.
Conclusion
The “Macbeth” themes tell a story about power, ambition, and morality. Shakespeare indicates how an uncontrolled desire for authority leads to breakdown. This work delivers powerful messages about friendship, loyalty, betrayal, and patriotism.
It shows students what happens when greed stains our souls. These lessons are as important today as they were in the 17th century. Also, they will be important as long as this world exists.
