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In Macbeth, who displays the best and worst leadership qualities?

Quick answer:

Duncan and Malcolm display the best leadership qualities in Macbeth. Duncan is merciful and does not abuse power, while Malcolm is virtuous, inspires loyalty, and aims to restore Scotland's peace. Conversely, Macbeth shows the worst leadership. His reign is marked by bloodthirstiness, tyranny, and paranoia, leading to widespread distrust and desertion among his followers.

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If you define "best" as most effective, then Lady Macbeth demonstrated some strong leadership skills, at least in the beginning of the play. She was very effective is overcoming Macbeth's reservations about killing Duncan and spurring him on. She figured out the details of the murder, drugged the drinks of Duncan's attendants, and laid out the murder instruments. She instructed Macbeth as to how he must behave, before and after Duncan's murder. Duncan's death was accomplished according to her plan and Macbeth soon claimed the crown.

Macbeth's leadership skills were horrendous. After gaining power, he had no workable plan for disarming his critics and gaining the support of his people. Instead of leading Scotland, he punished his countrymen, murdering those who threatened his position. He succeeded only in making himself a despised tyrant rather than a leader. At the conclusion of his life, the only Scots who fought for Macbeth were those who had no choice.

Duncan's legitimate heir, Malcom, does demonstrate the potential to be a good leader. He recognizes reality, assesses danger, and acts quickly, leading him and his brother to flee Scotland when Duncan is murdered, thus saving their lives. In Malcom's conversation with Macduff, Malcom shows that he is astute and understands the dynamics of the political situation in his country. He does not jump to conclusions or make snap judgments. These traits will serve him well as Scotland's true king.

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