Destructive Ambition In Macbeth

Misery of Fiery Desires

The solar eclipse is fascinating and draws attention, yet it gives off rays that are blinding. Ambitions have the same effect on an individual, as they become blinded by their fascinations and desires and lose sight of reality. In William Shakespeare’s play, Macbeth, characters that pursue harmful ambitions and suffer from the consequences. Three witches foretell that Macbeth will become king. At first, he is a loyal and courageous Thane for Duncan; however, he becomes deceitful once he decides to kill the king. He becomes blinded by the prophecy and persuasion by his wife, Lady Macbeth. As a result, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth act accordingly to gain and maintain power. Throughout Macbeth, Shakespeare proves unchecked

Lennox and an unnamed lord discuss the issues in Scotland and the violent deaths. Lennox informs, “For from broad words, ‘cause he failed His presence at the tyrant’s feast, I hear Macduff lives in disgrace”(3.6 23-26). The Lord tells Lennox that Macduff did not attend Macbeth’s banquet, expressing his disapproval of Macbeth’s rule. Though the lord shares information about Macduff rebelling, he reveals his own concerns by referring to Macbeth as a “tyrant”. Regardless of status, Macbeth has become a threat and a tyrant to the people of Scotland, which proves the deterioration of Macbeth 's character. Macduff’s absence at the banquet shows disloyalty among powerful people, which poses a threat to Macbeth.To maintain power he does not focus on the issues of Scotland like famine and riots. Consequently, his inability to rule effectively like leads to war and death. Few noble men discuss Macbeth as king. Angus says, “Now does he feel His secret murders sticking on his hands. Now minutely revolts unbraid his faith- breach. Those he commands move only in command, Nothing in love. Now does he feel his title Hang loose about him, like a giant’s robe Upon a dwarfish thief” (5.2 19-25). Angus believes that the people of Scotland do not respect Macbeth anymore. Previously, his fighting gave him respect and honor, but his murderous actions destroy the faith that people have in him. Loyalty gives Macbeth power because he has Duncan and the people of Scotland trust, but he fails to be a good leader and breaks that trust. Before killing Duncan, Macbeth says that Duncan is a good leader and he has no reason to kill him; however, many people have a reason to kill Macbeth. This statement from his subjects shows that even the common man is aware of Macbeth’s poor leadership, which shows that people are rebelling against Macbeth. His new power makes him act only to fulfil his desire of power,