Human Characteristics Leading to Macbeth's Downfall
Human Characteristics Leading to Macbeth's Downfall
Life is a reality play that forces individuals to choose between right and wrong. Decisions that are made have a lasting effect that decides the outcome of a person’s future. Macbeth has a great deal of trouble deciding the difference between moral and immoral decisions during his rise to power which. Macbeth’s character experiences a string of questionable decisions that consequently lead to his dethroning. First, Macbeth becomes engulfed in greed and will stop at nothing to obtain what he feels is his own. Next, he displays disloyalty towards his friends and superiors while trying to reach his goals. Finally, Macbeth exhibits gullibility. These three traits are what ultimately lead to the downfall of Macbeth, not only as a king but also his life.
Macbeth first displayed his greediness after his first conversation with the three witches. The witches spoke to Macbeth and provided him with a glimpse into the future. This small act awakened the greed that Macbeth has always possessed. Macbeth then felt he deserved to be crowned king and would stop at nothing to fulfill his goals. This is the first sign that Macbeth’s character is losing control of reality. Macbeth also exhibited greed after he honorably received the title of Thane of Cawdor, but is still not satisfied. Macbeth then plotted to kill his best friend Banquo, and his son Fleance just to further ensure his plans to become king. Macbeth’s greed began to cloud his mind even more when he planned the murders of Macduff’s innocent wife and children. Macbeth’s greed began controlling his life, and forced him to make rash decisions. This ultimately exposed his evil ways and was killed because of it.
Disloyalty is the second character flaw Macbeth exhibits. Macbeth displays this when he murders his king and longtime friend, Duncan. Macbeth does not comprehend his actions anymore. He felt no fear or remorse for this murder; his only concerns were his safety and well being. This murder was only a stepping stone for Macbeth’s future plans. Once Macbeth had murdered Duncan he underwent a transformation from a realistic, loyal commander to a fantasy living, traitor. This act drove a wedge between many people and Macbeth. These were the same people that would eventually drive...