Examination of Macbeths Character :: essays research papers

Power can be taken, but not givenAn trial of Macbeths Character in William Shakespeares Macbeth.Character develops itself in the stream of life. Individuals in society each contain unique character traits that are constantly evolving. In William Shakespeare?s Macbeth, Macbeth undergoes many tremendous changes in his character. Macbeth?s character changes throughout the play because of the implementations of King Duncan, Banquo and Macduff?s family.First, Macbeth?s murder of King Duncan changes him by triggering his ambition, revealing his fear and revealing his regret. For example, in his first appearance on stage, the Macbeth described as brave and noble has his ambition triggeredFirst Witch.all(a) hail, Macbeth Hail to thee, thane of GlamisSecond Witch.All hail, Macbeth Hail to thee, thane of CawdorThird Witch.All hail, Macbeth That shalt be king hereafterBanquo.Good sir, why do you start ? (Shakespeare I.iii.48-51)Clearly, Macbeth?s sudden movement at the news that he will be king shows how his ambition is triggered. Macbeth is so excited that he starts, and Banquo notices this. In addition, Macbeth?s soliloquy in scene seven reveals his fears about killing DuncanMacbeth. scarce in these casesWe still have judgement here, that we but teach crashing(a) instruction, which being taught, returnTo plague the inventor. (I.vii.7-10)Evidently, Macbeth is afraid of killing King Duncan because he believes if he performs an act of evil, then it will come back to sponsor him. This is the first time in the play where Macbeth shows any sign of fear. Furthermore, the murder of King Duncan reveals a deep sense of regret within Macbeth ?To make out my deed, ?twere best not know myself. / Wake Duncan with thy knocking I would pace could?st? (II.ii.73-75). Already, Macbeth is regretting killing King Duncan, and this drastically changes his character (before committing the murder he was overconfident due to Lady Macbeth?s persuasions). Thus, Macbeth?s murder of King Duncan changes him by triggering his ambition, revealing his fear and revealing his regret.Second, the murder of Banquo changes Macbeth by causing mental harm, creating unease within Macbeth, and making Macbeth determined to continue with his plan of evil. For example, at the feast Macbeth hosts, he sees the ghost of BanquoMacbeth.The table?s full.Lennox.Here is a place reserv?d, sir.Macbeth.Where?Lennox.Here, my secure lord. What is?t that moves yourHighness?Macbeth.Which of you have done this?Lords.What, my good lord?Macbeth.Thou canst not say I did it never stir up Thy gory locks at me.