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Macbeth Is Evil Essay

485 Words2 Pages

A person is not simply evil; outside factors always contribute to their actions. Shakespeare’s Macbeth is a story about a nobleman who experiences a tragic downfall. Macbeth commits some undeniably sinister acts, but the play supports the notion that he is not simply a villain but rather a nuanced character influenced by various factors. Many aspects influence Macbeth’s downfall, such as the supernatural, ambition, and power. The supernatural forces play a significant role in Macbeth's downfall, first appearing during Macbeth's initial encounter with the witches. FIRST WITCH: All hail, Macbeth! Hail to thee, thane of Glamis! SECOND WITCH: All hail, Macbeth! Hail to thee, thane of Cawdor! THIRD WITCH: All hail, Macbeth, that shalt be king hereafter! …show more content…

As Macbeth desperately tries to fulfill the supernatural prophecies of the witches, they act as a catalyst for Macbeth’s ambition. Another factor that plays a crucial role in Macbeth’s downfall is his ambition. Ambition first appears in the play when the witches tell him his prophecy, as he becomes consumed with ambition and begins to plot his ascension to the throne. Macbeth shows his immense ambition when he states, “I’ll go no more: / I am afraid to think what I have done; / Look on ‘t again I dare not” (II.ii.48-50). Macbeth’s ambition clouded his judgment, leading him to kill King Duncan in pursuit of power. Macbeth’s ambition ultimately leads to his downfall, as it causes him to lose his morality and make increasingly reckless decisions. Power plays a significant role in Macbeth’s downfall. After Macbeth becomes king, he becomes obsessed with maintaining his control and will eliminate anyone who may threaten his status. Macbeth shows his willingness to keep power when he admits, “But to be safely thus. Our fears in Banquo / Stick deep, and in his royalty of nature / Reigns that which would be feared” (III.i.49-51). Macbeth views Banquo as a threat to his reign and will not truly feel safe with Banquo around. Later, Macbeth hires murderers to kill Banquo so he can feel at ease. Power causes Banquo’s death and ultimately shows that Macbeth

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