Analysis of Macbeth Fate

Introduction: The Tragic Hero

The character of Macbeth from Shakespeare's play Macbeth is a classic example of a tragic hero. Macbeth's ambition, which serves as his fatal flaw or hamartia, ultimately leads to his downfall. Shakespeare uses Macbeth's journey to explore the consequences of regicide, highlighting that betraying the king will inevitably result in one's ruin (Shakespeare, 1606).

Macbeth's Valor and Initial Honor

At the beginning of the play, an exposition sequence introduces us to Macbeth through a soldier's speech, describing him as "brave Macbeth" (Shakespeare, 1606, Act 1, Scene 2). We learn of his prowess as a warrior fighting for Scotland, having beheaded a foe in battle. This initial portrayal of Macbeth as a violent man in violent times is tempered by the fact that he fights for his country, not personal gain. Shakespeare crafts a hero who can later transform into a tragic hero through his downfall caused by his ambition. This exposition sets up a cyclical structure; an enemy of Scotland is beheaded at both the beginning and end of the text, underscoring the consequences of treachery against the nation.

The Familial Bond with Duncan

Duncan describes Macbeth as a "cousin," establishing an almost familial bond and trust between them (Shakespeare, 1606, Act 1, Scene 2). Although it is unclear if they are actually related, this closeness makes Macbeth's eventual regicide even more shocking. This trust is crucial as it deepens the betrayal and heightens the tragedy of Macbeth's actions.

The Prophecy and Macbeth's Ambition

When Macbeth first meets the three weird sisters with Banquo, they prophesy that he will become king. The term "weird" in Elizabethan times meant fate, indicating that the witches are speaking of Macbeth's destiny (Shakespeare, 1606, Act 1, Scene 3). However, Macbeth's fatal flaw, his "vaulting ambition," prevents him from leaving his fate to chance. He begins to entertain "black and deep desires," contemplating the murder of Duncan, which at the time was a heinous crime. By the end of this encounter, Macbeth resolves to leave his future to chance, as Lady Macbeth suggests he is "too full of the milk of human kindness" to commit such a deed (Shakespeare, 1606, Act 1, Scene 5). Yet, his resolve is short-lived.

Lady Macbeth's Influence

Macbeth's meeting with Lady Macbeth further spurs his ambition. She manipulates and shames him into committing regicide, questioning his manhood by saying he is not a man if he dares not commit the deed (Shakespeare, 1606, Act 1, Scene 7). Her influence is pivotal in pushing Macbeth towards his tragic path, illustrating the powerful role she plays in the unfolding of events. This dynamic between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth adds layers to the narrative, exploring themes of power, manipulation, and the corruption of ambition.

Conclusion: The Inevitability of Downfall

Through Macbeth's journey from a valiant warrior to a tyrant consumed by ambition, Shakespeare illustrates the destructive nature of unchecked ambition and the moral and political chaos that ensues from regicide. Macbeth's story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of overreaching ambition and the inevitable downfall it brings, reinforcing the idea that betrayal and treachery against the rightful king lead to one's ruin.

References

• Shakespeare, W. (1606). Macbeth.