Internal And External Factors In Macbeth

Macbeth’s character traits and self shifts significantly as a result of both internal and external factors. An individual’s identity can alter and evolve throughout a sequence of events as a result of other’s opinions and inner doubts. This is well shown in Shakespeare's play Macbeth, Macbeth is initially a well respected, honoured good man. He is most well known for his accomplishment on the battlefield and is admired by many people especially the Captain and King Duncan. He shows great appreciation for all that he possesses at this point. Due to his outstanding achievements for Scotland, he was soon awarded with the title: Thane of Cawdor, which coincidentally matches the Witches’ prophecies that were delivered moments prior to him and Banquo

This behaviour easily contradicts Macbeth’s grateful attitude at the beginning and the transition was caused mainly by the influence of the weird sisters. He is mentally satisfied with their words and interprets it as a “double check” towards protecting his throne. Macbeth’s thought towards the idea of committing regicide causes his hair to stand on ends and heart race which demonstrates how he values morality over temptation at first. However he is easily influenced and somewhat impulsive, an example of this is when he allows Lady Macbeth to provoke him into the deadly act by accusing him of being a coward, indicating that external factors like other’s opinions on him also contributes to his unstable character and self. It is evident that Macbeth’s self is perhaps naturally kind as he becomes increasingly concerned about how he is struggling to maintain his moral code when he felt regretful after killing Duncan. After claiming the crown, however, his character shifts significantly as his moral code seems to have vanish. This is due to the overwhelming power that he has received with the title of being a King which has satisfied his