Examples Of Heroism In Macbeth

In William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Macbeth is neither loathsome nor a heroic character, but a mixture of both because he exhibits both traits throughout the tragedy. We first see Macbeth as a heroic character in the beginning of the play when he is defending Scotland against Macdonwald and his army. Another act of heroism he displays is when he list reasons in his head not to kill King Duncan: “He’s here in double trust; First, as I am his kinsmen and his subject…” (1:7:16-17). Macbeth is stating that Duncan trusts him in two ways, and he is his kinsman and subject so he should be protecting him not inflicting harm upon him. Lady Macbeth is adamant about proceeding with the murder and is furious with her husband for doubting the scheme. She

Macbeth believes Banquo knows about the murder and becomes suspicious. He hires murderers to kill Banquo and his young son, Fleance, in order for his secret to be kept, which is an example of how loathsome he has become. Macbeth is willing to kill anyone he sees as a threat to him or his throne. He also hires murderers to kill Macduff’s family after he learns Macduff has fled to England in order to get help to overthrow him. Macbeth’s and Lady Macbeth’s mental health begins to suffer in the midst of the madness. Lady Macbeth commits suicide because she could no longer take the guilt. Macbeth’s reaction to his wife’s death solidifies how heartless and desensitized he has become: “She should have died hereafter; there would have been such a time for a word” (5:5:17-18). He thinks that it is bad timing for her death, and it should have taken place after the battle against Macduff. After her death, he puts on his armor and heads towards the battlefield to defend his castle and throne. He violently kills Young Siward because he selfishly believes that is one less person coming after him. His last act of the play reflects a heroic