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How Is Macbeth A Tyrant

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By: Eshan Malkani 02/01/23
Macbeth Formal paragraph #3

At the beginning of Macbeth, he is portrayed as an ambitious but moral person. His initial aspirations to become King are still coupled with hesitation and a sense of guilt. This can be seen in Act 1, Scene 7, when Macbeth ponders to himself if he should commit the murder of King Duncan in order to fulfill his ambitions. He is plagued with doubt and insecurity as he says: “If it were done when 'tis done then 'twere well it were done quickly” (1.7.1). He is torn between ambition and morality, and this internal battle reflects in his soliloquy. However, in Act 3, Scene 1, a drastic transformation in Macbeth’s character is seen. In this scene, Macbeth has already committed two murders …show more content…

As Macbeth states: “I am blood stepped in so far, that should I wade no more, returning was as tedious as go o’er” (3.4.137-138). His soliloquy sheds light of his calculated ambition and absolute rejection of any moral considerations. Macbeth embodies the persona of a tyrant, demonic in his plans for power and security. Macbeth’s transition from a reluctant murderer to a tyrannical murder is a consequence of the toll that power has taken on him. His disregard for human life is seen when Macbeth proclaims “I am in blood,/ Stepp'd in so far that, should I wade no more,/ Returning was as tedious as go o'er '' (3.4.137-139). He has embraced the false security of power and has subverted morality, backing the idea that one should commit evil acts in order to ensure their own prosperity. Furthermore, blind ambition has corrupted Macbeth’s conscience which can be observed when he states: “For mine own good,/ All causes shall give way” (3.4.140-141). What we see within this soliloquy is the realization that Macbeth is without conscience; he has replaced morality with the pursuit of power and does not flinch from inhuman acts that would pose any potential threats to his safety. Macbeth’s metamorphosis from a

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