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Examples Of Masculinity In Macbeth

543 Words3 Pages

Even back in Elizabethan times, men were expected to have certain characteristics, abilities and not feel certain emotions. All men, especially royalty, are expected to be risk takers, regardless of the outcome. In many places and situations even today, men are expected to be capable of certain actions, and suppressing and managing certain emotions such as fear and guilt. Shakespeare’s play “Macbeth”, demonstrates the idea that masculinity is linked to violence, aggression, courage and such traits, and attempting to prove this to others can lead to our downfall. Initially, Macbeth is a self righteous man, who is trusted by all, even Duncan, king of Scotland. He is a successful and loyal soldier, who is made Thane Of Cawdor by king Duncan, as a reward for service in battle. He is presented as a stereotypical and ideal hero who is loved for his personality and his …show more content…

Upon finding out, Lady Macbeth, wife of Macbeth, insists that Macbeth kills Duncan, making him king, fulfilling the third prophecy. Being “too full o’ the milk of human kindness”(1.5.16), and not wanting to take the shortest and easiest path to power, Macbeth refuses. Enraged, Lady Macbeth calls him a coward, and questions his masculinity, to the point where Macbeth feels he has the murder in order to prove himself and his masculinity. Lady Macbeth even at one point asks the spirits above to take away all her feminine qualities, making her manly, something Macbeth isn’t, and give her the ability to kill Duncan herself without guilt or fear. This shows how even women, especially royalty, had certain views that presented masculinity. Lady Macbeth believes that being kind, loyal and worried about the outcome of actions are all acts that are questionable in terms of one’s masculinity. She very cunningly uses masculinity to manipulate him and get her

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