Kingship

Introduction

Macbeth by William Shakespeare is a dark tale of desire for power and guilt driven paranoia set in Scotland. The theme of kingship is explored throughout by Shakespeare, who also delves deeper into the complexities of ambition, power and unchecked authority. With the unexpected ascension of James the first to the throne, what makes a good king was a popular and highly discussed topic in England. Possibly Shakespeare wanted to highlight what he felt made a good monarch by comparing different characters and their approaches to their reigns.

Paragraph One

- Based on extract
- Structure: point, evidence, analysis, evidence, analysis, development
- Make sure to read whole extract to understand

Paragraph Two

- Shakespeare employs many techniques to present Duncan as a paragon of kingship
- Act One scene 4 'I have begun to plant thee and will labour'
- Duncan is a just and benevolent ruler who is invested in his followers
- His successful kingship highlights just how disastrous macbeth's was
-Metaphorical language 'I have begun to plan thee' likens macbeth to a seed that has been sown
-Duncan showing his investment and belief in followers particular Macbeth
-He is a god leader with faith and trust in his subjects
- Act One scene 4 'We will establish our estate upon our eldest Malcolm'
-Dramatic irony - malcolms succession is not guaranteed treachery lurks within Duncans own court
- Duncan is ensuring political stability and security - trustworthy king that is providing a vision of a safe and stable future for Scotland
- Elizabeth 1 died without an heir which created political instability
- Jacobean audience knew how bad this was and therefore are seeing King Duncan in a good light for this

Paragraph Three

- Through this his depiction of Duncan as a wise and benevolent ruler, Shakespeare contrasts the noble qualities of true kingship with the destructive ambition of his tragic protagonist, Macbeth
- Macbeth portrays all of the qualities a King should not possess
- Macbeth ascends to kingship - reign is marked by uncertainty and instability
- Act 3 scene 1 'To be thus is nothing, but to be safely thus'
- Use Of soliloquy allows audience to gain insight into
Mb internal struggles/psychological
- Juxtaposition of 'To be thus' and 'to be safely thus' underscores mb obsessions with security and his fear of losing control. reflects corrupting influence of power
- As reign progeresses becomes increasingly tyrannical and despotic- resorts to violence to maintain power
- Seen through murders of Banquo and macduff's family
- Act 4 scene 1 'The castle of Macduff i will surprise... give to the edge o' the sword... His wife, His babies'
- Violent imagery - sacrifice innocent lives for personal gain
- No love for followers like Duncan
- Shakespeare emphasis destructive powers that come with kingship if not in righteous and just way

Conclusion

In conclusion Kingship in Macbeth is shown in extremely contrasting lights. Macbeth is a tyrannic and unforgiving ruler who obtained his place on the throne he abuses so heavily by murder and deceit. King Duncan on the other hand was a righteous and worthy ruler who was held to high standard and respect by those of Scotland. The idea of kingship and what it takes to be a king is introduced in Act One Scene One and can be seen as being the final destination and goal for many of the characters in the play.