Role Of Self Destruction In Macbeth

Human Nature Proven Through Animalistic Tendencies in Shakespeare's Macbeth

Often when one is unaware of their own worth it causes them thirst for an empty power leading them down a path of paranoia, dishonour and destruction. This is the truth for the character of Macbeth in William Shakespeare's play Macbeth. Macbeth is ignorant of his own self-worth. Additionally he experiences a hunger for power that cannot be fulfilled. Furthermore Macbeth's own self destruction lead him to his ultimate demise. In William Shakespeare's Macbeth Shakespeare uses animal imagery to convey that……

The ignorance Macbeth has of his own self worth demonstrates his inner flaws… Macbeth is continually given strong epithets from honourable people, unbeknownst to Macbeth,

Macbeth is continually in the paranoia brought to him by his own insecurities, brought to light by animal imagery. Revolutionized by the supernatural and him place in this world Macbeth states, ”the bat hath flown his cloister'd flight ere to black Hecates summons the shard borne beetle with his drowsy hums.” Macbeth makes a reference to Hecate, the supernatural to whom he blames his ultimate demise, why he calls her “black Hecate”. This comparison shows Macbeth's insecurities, he is unsure of how he got to be the king on his own merit and does not know how to go back to the place he was before. He believes he is blind, like the “bat”. Macbeth has a relapse and an empathy for himself for what he has done, momentarily wanting to get better. Trying to gain back the power he strives for Macbeth blurts, “ but bearlike I must fight the course.” He believes he is still as strong and capable, physically and mentally, to take back the honor he once had. He says he ‘must” fight the course, as if he knows if he doesn't stay strong there will be vast complications. This quote is sad, Macbeth realizes he will come to an ending but he still wants to get better even though he knows he won't. The ultimate ending of Macbeth's life is due to his own destruction of himself. Giving up the long battle Macbeth has had with himself to keep fighting, during the literal fight Macbeth has with Macduff, Macduff states, “there cannot be that vulture in you to devour.” Like a vulture to his pray Macbeth has been eaten up by the evil he has pursued. He can no longer escape his predictable death. The conjunction of “cannot” used to compare Macbeth's bf the vulture shows his loss of strength. He once was referred to as a “lion” by many but now isn't even compared to a vulture. He is not able to fight and have the ability to