Analysis of Breaking Bad in Macbeth

William Shakespeare’s play Macbeth and the television series Breaking Bad may at first glance seem to have little in common. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that both works share several striking similarities in terms of their exploration of the human psyche, the descent into darkness, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. This essay will analyze the parallels between Macbeth and Breaking Bad, focusing on the themes of ambition, power, and moral decay.

Ambition

One of the central themes in both Macbeth and Breaking Bad is the destructive nature of unchecked ambition. In Macbeth, the titular character’s unrelenting ambition drives him to commit heinous acts in order to seize and maintain power. Similarly, in Breaking Bad, Walter White’s desire to secure his family’s financial future leads him down a dark path of crime and violence. Both Macbeth and Walter White are initially motivated by noble intentions – Macbeth by his desire to become king and Walter by his wish to provide for his family – but their ambition ultimately consumes them, leading to their downfall.

According to an article in The Atlantic by Conor Friedersdorf, the character of Walter White in Breaking Bad embodies the destructive nature of ambition, stating that “Walter White is a cautionary tale about the corrupting influence of unchecked ambition.” Friedersdorf argues that Walter’s initial goal of providing for his family ultimately gives way to a lust for power and control, leading to devastating consequences for both himself and those around him.

Power

Another parallel between Macbeth and Breaking Bad is the portrayal of power and its corrupting influence. In Macbeth, the acquisition and maintenance of power are central to the plot, with the characters’ actions driven by their desire for control. Similarly, Breaking Bad explores the allure of power and the lengths to which individuals will go to attain it. Walter White’s transformation from a mild-mannered chemistry teacher to a ruthless drug lord illustrates the seductive nature of power and the moral compromises that come with it.

In an analysis of Breaking Bad for The New Yorker, Emily Nussbaum discusses the theme of power and its impact on Walter White, stating that “the show is a morality play about the pursuit of power, a Shakespearean tragedy set in the world of meth labs and strip malls.” Nussbaum highlights the parallels between Walter White and Macbeth, both of whom are driven by their hunger for power and the consequences of their actions.

Moral Decay

Both Macbeth and Breaking Bad also delve into the theme of moral decay, portraying the gradual erosion of the characters’ ethical boundaries as they become consumed by their ambitions. In Macbeth, the protagonist’s descent into darkness is marked by his increasing willingness to commit atrocities in pursuit of power. Similarly, Walter White’s transformation from a sympathetic protagonist to a morally compromised antihero reflects the corrosive effect of his actions on his character.

Writing for The Guardian, Sam Wollaston discusses the moral decay of Walter White in Breaking Bad, stating that “He's not a good man doing bad things for the right reasons; he's a bad man doing bad things for the wrong reasons, and that's much more interesting and complex.” Wollaston’s analysis highlights the complex portrayal of morality in Breaking Bad, drawing parallels to the moral deterioration of Macbeth as he becomes consumed by his ambition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the parallels between Macbeth and Breaking Bad are evident in their exploration of ambition, power, and moral decay. Both works offer a compelling examination of the human psyche and the consequences of unchecked ambition, portraying the destructive effects of power and the erosion of moral boundaries. Through their complex characters and gripping narratives, Macbeth and Breaking Bad offer timeless reflections on the nature of ambition and the perils of succumbing to its temptations.

Ultimately, the tragic arcs of Macbeth and Walter White serve as cautionary tales, warning against the dangers of unchecked ambition and the moral compromises that come with the pursuit of power. By examining the similarities between these two works, we gain a deeper understanding of the universal themes they address and the enduring relevance of their narratives.