Macbeth Decisions of an Ambitious King
Macbeth - Decisions of an Ambitious King
The play of Macbeth is one, which involves the depiction of Fate compared to free will. The play shows the struggle of one man’s determination to be king. Despite all forces involved in Macbeth, it is only Macbeth who is the controlling force in his destruction.
In the first act of the play Macbeth and Banquo come across three witches, which proclaim their fates. Macbeth is intrigued by the prophecies and listens on. His choice to take the fates as truth is evident when he says to Banquo, “Your children shall be king…And Thane of Cawdor too. Went it not so?” (Act I, sc.3, ll. 86-88). While Macbeth proclaims his decision, Banquo attempts to persuade Macbeth away from the prophecies by saying, “Were such things here as we do speak about? Or have we eaten on the insane root That takes the reason prisoner?” (Act I, sc. 3. ll. 83-85).
It is after this point in the story that all of his life will change. His character suffers from his choice and Macbeth’s decision will take a very serious turn.
Macbeth’s contemplation of murder creates a serious tone in the play. With Macbeth’s career leading him to the throne, he decides to take it on himself to kill the king. The discussion with his wife (Lady Macbeth) gives him two paths to take. It is evident that Lady Macbeth persuades Macbeth to murder when she states to Macbeth, “Who dares receive it other, As we shall make our griefs and clamor roar Upon his death?” (Act I, sc. 7, ll. 78-80). He has the option to wait for his opportunity to arise. Instead, he decides to take the initiative and kill the king that night. His character suffers drastically from his actions. Lady Macbeth sets the pressure upon him. Though this is true, Macbeth has ample opportunity to leave the situation. The scene when Macbeth imagines the knives is only one of many examples. In the scene he says,
[i:24cc271ff3]“Is this a dagger which I see before me,
The handle toward my hand? Come, let me clutch thee.
I have thee not, fatal vision, sensible
To feeling as to sight, or art thou but
A dagger of the mind, a false creation” (Act II,...