Themes: Ambition
In Macbeth, ambition is a central theme that drives the play's action and leads to the downfall of its main characters. Macbeth's ambition is ignited by the witches' prophecy that he will become king, and it is further fueled by Lady Macbeth's encouragement. This unchecked ambition ultimately leads to a series of tragic events, including murder, madness, and death. Shakespeare explores the destructive nature of ambition and its ability to corrupt individuals and disrupt the natural order.
Macbeth's ambition is evident from the moment he hears the witches' prophecy. Initially, he is hesitant to act on his desires, but Lady Macbeth's manipulation convinces him to murder King Duncan. Her advice to "
Look like the innocent flower, But be the serpent under it." highlights the deceit and treachery that ambition can breed. Once Macbeth commits regicide, he is set on a path of moral decay, becoming increasingly ruthless and paranoid to maintain his power.
The consequences of Macbeth's ambition are far-reaching. His initial internal conflict over killing Duncan quickly dissipates, and he becomes desensitized to violence and treachery. Macbeth's ambition blinds him to the moral implications of his actions, leading him to murder Banquo and Macduff's family. His ambition transforms him from a noble warrior into a tyrant, illustrating how unchecked ambition can lead to one's downfall.
Lady Macbeth's ambition is equally destructive. She is initially the more ambitious of the two, urging Macbeth to seize the throne. However, her ambition leads to overwhelming guilt and madness. Her descent into madness and eventual suicide underscore the psychological toll of unchecked ambition. Her earlier resolve crumbles under the weight of their crimes, demonstrating how ambition can consume and destroy.
Ultimately, the theme of ambition in Macbeth serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked desires. The play suggests that ambition, when not tempered by moral considerations, leads to chaos and destruction. Macbeth's tragic end, marked by his famous soliloquy "
Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow," reveals the futility and emptiness of his ambitions. Shakespeare's portrayal of ambition in Macbeth warns of its potential to corrupt and destroy lives.
Expert Q&A
What does the speaker mean by "My thought, whose murder yet is but fantastical shakes, so my single state of man that function" in Macbeth?
In Act I, Scene III of Macbeth, Macbeth contemplates the witches' prophecy of him becoming the King of Scotland. The phrase in question reveals Macbeth's immediate thoughts of murder as a means to achieve this prophecy, despite the witches not suggesting such action. This indicates Macbeth's strong ambition. However, he is also disturbed and nervous about the idea of committing murder, which foreshadows his eventual killing of King Duncan.
The meaning of the phrase "swelling act of the imperial theme" in Macbeth
The phrase "swelling act of the imperial theme" in Macbeth refers to Macbeth's growing ambition and the expanding scope of his aspirations for power. It illustrates his desire to ascend to the throne and fulfill the grand, imperial destiny that he envisions for himself.
Quotes in Macbeth that explore themes of ambition, guilt, betrayal, gender manipulation, appearances versus reality, supernatural forces, and order versus chaos
In Macbeth, quotes that explore ambition include "I have no spur to prick the sides of my intent, but only vaulting ambition." Guilt is depicted in "Will all great Neptune's ocean wash this blood clean from my hand?" Betrayal is evident in "There's daggers in men's smiles." Gender manipulation is shown in "Unsex me here." Appearances versus reality is captured in "Fair is foul, and foul is fair." Supernatural forces are highlighted in "Is this a dagger which I see before me?" Lastly, order versus chaos is reflected in "Macbeth does murder sleep." These quotes collectively illuminate the central themes of the play.
Exploring the central theme of Macbeth and conceptual approaches for its production
The central theme of Macbeth is the corrupting power of unchecked ambition. Macbeth's desire for power leads him down a path of moral decay and tyranny. Conceptual approaches for its production might include emphasizing psychological aspects, using modern or minimalist settings to highlight timeless themes, or focusing on the supernatural elements to underscore the play's exploration of fate and free will.
Which characters in Macbeth, besides Lady Macbeth and Macbeth, show determination?
Beyond Lady Macbeth and Macbeth, characters in Macbeth who show determination include Hecate, Macduff, and Malcolm. Hecate is determined to mislead Macbeth to his doom through deceptive prophecies. Macduff demonstrates determination by seeking Malcolm's help to defeat Macbeth and avenging his family's murder by killing Macbeth. Malcolm shows his resolve by fleeing to England, gathering support, and ultimately reclaiming the Scottish throne. These characters play crucial roles in challenging Macbeth's tyranny.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.
