Betrayal In Macbeth

Loyalty in a relationship or friendship is a fundamental basis in which the connection between the two parties can endure the temptations of dishonest and unfaithful deeds. But succumbing to less noble and honorable actions, which often goes against one's morals, creates conflict as one party has now betrayed the other. Betrayal is a key theme in the play Macbeth written by William Shakespeare as the unchecked ambition Macbeth and his wife possess leads them to act against their friends and country. This theme is also presented through other characters in the play who quest for order and power in Scotland. In contrast to the written play by Shakespeare, Roman Polanski’s film adaptation of Macbeth focuses in on and amplifies the theme of betrayal

Ross, a nobleman and minor character is modified by Polanski to better display betrayal. By adding simple scene cuts where Ross' expressions are seen, the viewers are given a small development of Ross. Ross' last words to Lady Macduff were, " I am so much a fool, should I stay longer, / It would be my disgrace and your discomfort./ I take my leave at once" (Shakespeare, Act IV. Scene ii. Lines 27-29). In the film, Ross then exchanges a curt nod and knowing smirk with the gatekeeper as he watches the murders sent by Macbeth approach Macduff's home. These actions of Ross can be interpreted by the audience as his betrayal of his cousin and her family because of the choice he made. If the audience infers that Ross knew about the attack, Ross has then chosen to side with Macbeth by not warning his cousin of the danger approaching. This can be taken as Ross staying loyal to his king's orders and wishes but also Ross' growing ambition as he sees an opportunity to better his status in Scotland as Macduff's position would be available. In the written play, there is no such indication of Ross allowing the attack and not giving warnings; his knowledge of the attack is also unknown. By adding extra and meaning scenes of Ross, the viewer is given the chance to widen his/her perspective on betrayal with minor characters. Next, Roman Polanski uses Donalbain use a tool to further express the major theme of betrayal. Donalbain is a minor character whose presence is absent for the majority of the written play but at the end of the film version makes a special appearance. After the victory of Malcolm, the film closes with the arrival of Donalbain at the weird sisters’ lair; he looks curious yet apprehensive as he enters their land. This added ending is meant to reinforce the dark temptations men face and betrayals they commit to fulfil their ambitious dreams. Donalbains entrance is a hint to