Macbeth's Supernatural Qualities In Othello

As Macbeth desperately tries to hold on to his power, Macduff and Malcolm plan to fight. In preparation for battle Macbeth says in battle “I have almost forgot the taste of fears” and illuminates his flaw (Mac. 5.5.9). Previously, Macbeth relies on his wife to calm his fears and to devise his plans to move forward. In contrast, Macbeth, now in a position of power, makes decisions without his wife, never discusses with her, and no longer relies on her influence to resolve his thoughts. Macbeth’s tragic flaw of ambition and lust for power transforms his character. Prior to the murder, Macbeth’s indecisive and inexperience force him to depend on others, and to manner himself as nervous and fearful of the discovery of the culprit. Macbeth’s power

Moreover, Brabantio argues with Othello and makes accusations that Othello fools his daughter into marriage through witchcraft, yet Othello denies, ands says love “only is the witchcraft I used” (Shakespeare Othello: The Moor of Venice 1.3.67). Similar to Macbeth, Shakespeare highlights the supernatural qualities in Othello. The witches coerce Macbeth into the pursuit of the throne. Likewise, Shakespeare notes that Othello’s witchcraft is the flattery he expresses towards Desdemona. This ironically also demonstrates Othello’s flaw, because he doubts her loyalty and in turn, chooses to trust Iago over her. However, Othello first chooses to believe Desdemona, and denies the clues that hint toward her affair with Cassio. Othello sees that the lowest soldier “tasted her sweet body” and knows nothing of it (Oth. 3.3.46). Despite the obvious clues Iago places, Othello chooses to trust his wife. However, he later acknowledges Iago’s manipulation and follows the path he creates. Othello’s flaw demonstrates his lack of trust in Desdemona and his mistrust in Iago. In time, the jealousy Othello feels and the skepticism he creates causes his emotions to overpower him. Othello kills Desdemona and “It is too late” to control

Macbeth and Othello share technical similarities in the format of Shakespeare's plays. Supporting characters negatively influence the protagonists, which in turn fuel their self betrayal and the adoption of their flaw. However, despite these standpoints, Macbeth and Othello’s flaws are vastly different. Macbeth desires the throne and power, yet Othello only wishes for a loyal wife. Unlike Othello, obstacles stand in Macbeth’s way. In order to reach his goal of ultimate power, he needs to surpass King Duncan’s first born son, and the natural birthright to the throne. After the witches plant the idea of kingship in Macbeth’ head, he ponders what actions he takes to conquer successfully. Macbeth recognizes Macduff as “a step on which I must fall down” (Mac. 1.4.49). Macduff is Duncan’s first of kin, and therefore, by tradition receives the thrown if the king fails to rule. In an ambitious effort, Macbeth sees this, and acknowledges that he plans to overcome this obstacle. Ironically, Macduff takes the throne back from Macbeth when he kills him in battle. Contrary to Macbeth, Othello lacks a true obstacle in his way. Macbeth possesses a more intangible, obvious goal, the crown of Scotland. However, Othello’s flaw of mistrust fails to allow him to see the truth his wife speaks. Othello never expresses such a transparent goal, or obvious obstacles he needs to overtake in order to achieve it. Because Macbeth’s goal is more