In this Shakespearean tragedy, Macbeth, numerous murders take place throughout the entire book. As the book goes on, there are more and more murders, one more well thought out than the last. William Shakespeare really shows how guilt can affect a person’s conscience and, when left with that guilt, how it can push you to the edge. Macbeth highlights corruption, guilt, persuasion, and the pursuit of power. The choices they make create a lot of uncertainty within themselves and eventually lead to their own downfall. How guilt affects Macbeth and how it doesn't. Macbeth's guilt prevents him from enjoying being king and enjoying everything he has gained. Shakespeare portrays Macbeth as heroic, and Shakespeare tries to sell us on the qualities of why Macbeth is heroic. In the beginning of the book, he is defending Scotland against Macdonwald and his army, which already portrays a sense of heroism in the book, even in the darkest moments. For example, Macbeth is visited by the ghost of Banquo, whom he murdered to protect his secret. Another act he displays is when he gives reasons not to kill King Duncan; “He’s here in double trust; First as, I am his kinsman and his subject.” The embodiment of Macbeth's guilt, which is why he nearly reveals the truth about him murdering King Duncan.