Character Analysis of Macbeth
Character Analysis of Macbeth
Every classic play has at least one interesting character who grabs the reader’s fascination. It is absolutely mandatory for the main character to develop throughout the play to possess the reader’s undivided attention. In the great play Macbeth, Shakespeare does an excellent job of characterizing Macbeth to own the audience’s interest. Macbeth changes his character by leaps and bounds throughout the play Macbeth.
Macbeth starts out as a well-known and respected Thane. First of all, he is absolutely trusted by King Duncan in Act I Scene II. In this scene, King Duncan gives him praise for his bravery on the battlefield that shows how respected Macbeth is. This is a great honour for Macbeth considering that King Duncan just before found out about the Thane of Cawdor trading sides. Also, Macbeth is not only respected by the King, but also by his fellow comrades. Evidence of this is presented when a bloody soldier from the battlefield exclaims to King Duncan, “For brave Macbeth- well he deserves that name”(I. ii. l. 18). Soon thereafter, we also know that Macbeth is a noble and intelligent Thane, by showing us how much he respects King Duncan. This is exposed, when he was extremely angry with himself that he thought of killing Duncan, upon hearing Malcolm named to be King thereafter. He cannot believe he thought of such a horrendous though and vows never to do it again. In conclusion, it is evident that Macbeth began the play as a much respected and noble figure.
From a respected Thane, Macbeth transforms into a tyrant King. To begin with, the first piece of evidence that suggests that Macbeth was a tyrant King is when he plans the murder of Banquo, and his son, Fleance. Macbeth unbelievingly convinces the murderers, that all of their misfortune they have encountered thus far has been caused by Banquo. More to the point, he also does not inform Lady Macbeth about the murders, and instead keeps it to himself. Secondly, the fact that Macbeth is more concerned about the security of his kingship rather than Scotland is another point that suggests he was a tyrant King. This is revealed when Lennox states, “that is swift blessing/ May soon return to this our suffering country/ Under a hand accursed” (III. vi. l. 50-52). In this quote Lennox is hoping that Macduff will return with help so heal...