What is greed? It is defined as an intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth or power. In William Shakespeare's notable work, Macbeth, the protagonist in which the work gets its name exemplifies what it means to be a greedy and power-hungry individual. In this work, Shakespeare describes Macbeth’s gradual descent into insanity after coveting kingship which ultimately leads him to murder those who get in his way. Under these circumstances, Macbeth’s evolving desire for kingship and withholding the power that comes with it results in vicious repercussions.
Firstly, Macbeth begins to covet the throne after three witches prophesies that he will become the king of Scotland. He sends news of this to Lady Macbeth in a letter, who after his return, begins to
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His lust for power drives him to murder Banquo and Fleance to ensure that they will not become kings, and so that his own sons will inherit the throne. Making rationalizations for the murders, he recalls the witches’ prophecy, by saying “They hailed him to a line of kings...No son of mine succeeding.” (3.1) Desiring to retain the power he occupies, Macbeth becomes increasingly willing to kill in order to preserve it. His mental state begins to deteriorate rapidly as he becomes increasingly more paranoid due to the lingering guilt of the crimes. In another attempt to preserve his dominion, Macbeth slaughters Macduff’s entire family. Devising his plan in order to make an example of Macduff's abandonment he says, “The Castle of Macduff I will surprise...His wife, his babes, and all unfortunate souls.” (4.1) It is important to realize that Macbeth is further descending into madness by committing acts of irrational violence. Rather than relying on his subjects’ loyalty, Macbeth feels as if he must terrify them into subjugation. His burning desire and its consequences continue to accumulate with each act of destruction he