When Macbeth was written in 1606 by William Shakespeare, coming to an amphitheater and watching one of Shakespeare’s plays was common. Today, Shakespeare’s plays continue to be a popular subject but are studied in a much more academic fashion. Many students and scholars question and analyze the plot of plays such as Macbeth. This play begins with a merry tone which slowly develops into a very dark and tragic story due to the consequences of characters’ actions. Throughout Macbeth, Macbeth’s actions are influenced by the way that he is perceived by others.
In the beginning of Macbeth, Macbeth is seen as a wartime hero who single-handedly protected Scotland and it’s king from their downfall. Macbeth is valiant fighter, recognized by his kingdom, and viewed as the fiercest warrior protecting Scotland and his King, Duncan.
This is shown when Duncan calls Macbeth, “O valiant cousin! Worthy gentleman!” and when speaking of both Banquo and Macbeth, “They smack of honor both.” (I.ii.24-44) Macbeth takes pleasure knowing that he is thought of highly. Furthermore, he is even happier when he is given the title “Thane of Cawdor” for his excellent work in battle as well …show more content…
Thou art so far before/That swiftest wing of recompense is slow/ To overtake thee.”( I,iv, 15-19) Here, Duncan is thanking Macbeth for all of his loyal service both to himself and his country. As a result, Macbeth begins to consider the ethical side of the decision he is about to make, thinking, “Why do I yield to that suggestion/Whose horrid image doth unfix my hair,/And make my seated heart knock at my ribs,/Against the use of nature?” (I.iii. 138-141) Macbeth knows that killing the king is unethical and takes comfort in knowing that he can remain safely in power and in the people’s good faith with titles such as Thane of Cawdor. However, he eventually commits murder because his wife’s perception of him is more important than that of the citizens of
In the beginning of Macbeth, Macbeth is seen as a wartime hero who single-handedly protected Scotland and it’s king from their downfall. Macbeth is valiant fighter, recognized by his kingdom, and viewed as the fiercest warrior protecting Scotland and his King, Duncan.
This is shown when Duncan calls Macbeth, “O valiant cousin! Worthy gentleman!” and when speaking of both Banquo and Macbeth, “They smack of honor both.” (I.ii.24-44) Macbeth takes pleasure knowing that he is thought of highly. Furthermore, he is even happier when he is given the title “Thane of Cawdor” for his excellent work in battle as well …show more content…
Thou art so far before/That swiftest wing of recompense is slow/ To overtake thee.”( I,iv, 15-19) Here, Duncan is thanking Macbeth for all of his loyal service both to himself and his country. As a result, Macbeth begins to consider the ethical side of the decision he is about to make, thinking, “Why do I yield to that suggestion/Whose horrid image doth unfix my hair,/And make my seated heart knock at my ribs,/Against the use of nature?” (I.iii. 138-141) Macbeth knows that killing the king is unethical and takes comfort in knowing that he can remain safely in power and in the people’s good faith with titles such as Thane of Cawdor. However, he eventually commits murder because his wife’s perception of him is more important than that of the citizens of