Feminine Influence In Macbeth

Feminine Influence in Macbeth Macbeth was written by William Shakespeare about a man and the ever-changing, tragic conflict surrounding his life. In the context of the time period, women were looked upon in a lesser way than men both physically and emotionally. The expectation of womanhood did not go beyond being taken care of by their husbands (Sharnette, par. 2). Macbeth challenges this notion by creating the dynamic of prevailing female figures. Macbeth, the main character, is most subject to this dynamic throughout the play. Nontraditional roles of masculinity double as feministic influence and guidance through the characters Lady Macbeth, the Weird Sisters, and Hecate. Lady Macbeth takes upon a commanding role to guide her husband in the direction she wishes. The influence of Lady Macbeth is most

The Weird Sisters answer to Hecate and her need for control is evident when she is infuriated by their dialog with Macbeth. By speaking of “riddles and affairs of death,” (Shakespeare 373) the Weird Sisters stepped out of line without their leaders’ permission. Being the “close contriver of all harms,” Hecate is enraged at the fact she was “never called to bear [her] part” (Shakespeare 373) in the handling of Macbeth’s prophesy. She wishes to control everything under the “umbrella” of spells and witchcraft. Although she is considered a goddess, the simple principle of her sexuality and influence coincides with female dominance. Hecate brings together the witches to finalize Macbeth’s fate with a spell saying at the end, “every one shall share i’ th’ gains” (Shakespeare 381). By commending their hard work, it can be inferred that she governs and uses their powers, ultimately, for her predilection. The disposition of Hecate does not put her at the forefront of guidance, but rather serves as a catalyst of tragedy hidden from the main