Kingship

Thesis statement

In Macbeth, Shakespeare highlights the prosperity a country can experience under a just and virtuous ruler like King Duncan and contrasts it with the chaos and suffering brought on by Macbeth, whose reign is marked by paranoia and a ruthless obsession with maintaining power at any cost.

The theme of kingship is established when the King Duncan is introduced within the play

King Duncan is the chosen ruler according to the Divine Right of Kings and the qualities he shows present him as a noble, honourable King. He is generous as he rewards noble men like Macbeth and Banquo with titles.” O valiant cousin! worthy gentleman!” 

As a result of King Duncan’s meritocracy, it is assumed that man of his men was very loyal to him, explaining how Scotland was able to be such a powerful nation that won wars under his leadership. 

Macbeth is used by Shakespeare as a cautionary figure to teach his Jacobean audience that a country led by the wrong person will easily fall into chaos 

“"Alas, poor country,”(Malcom to Macduff) 

order is restored when Malcom is appointed as king following the murder of Macbeth

With this great work / The time is come." Shows the intent to restore the nation, emphasising that Malcom’s leadership is the solution to the suffering Scotland has endured under Macbeth’s reign. 

Conclusion

Shakespeare’s play emphasises the extent to which a country may suffer when led by the wrong individual, while also highlighting how a nation can prosper under a king who shares the noble morals and aspirations of both King Duncan and King Malcolm.