Ambition is a major theme in William Shakespeare's tragedy, Macbeth. Throughout the play, Macbeth's unchecked desire for power and Lady Macbeth's ambition to become queen drive the plot forward. Macbeth's initial ambition is revealed in Act I, Scene 3 when the witches prophesy that he will be "king hereafter." This sparks Macbeth's desire for power and sets the plot in motion. Macbeth's soliloquy in Act I, Scene 7 confirms his ambition when he admits that it is "vaulting" and that he is willing to risk everything to become king. Lady Macbeth's ambition is also a significant factor in the play. In Act I, Scene 5, she receives Macbeth's letter and immediately begins to plot their ascent to power. She recognizes Macbeth's ambition, but also knows that he is hesitant to commit murder. Lady Macbeth decides to take matters into her own hands and pushes Macbeth to carry out the plan. …show more content…
However, the play also explores the darker side of ambition and the consequences that come with it. Macbeth's unchecked desire for power leads him down a dark path, ultimately resulting in his downfall. He becomes consumed by his ambition and loses sight of his moral compass. Macbeth's decision to murder King Duncan sets off a chain of events that ultimately leads to his own demise. His ambition also leads him to commit a series of heinous acts in order to maintain his power, including ordering the murder of Banquo and his son, and later having Lady Macduff and her children killed. These actions come with severe consequences, including guilt, paranoia, and eventually, his own