Ambition

The plot of Macbeth is propelled by Macbeth’s ambition and his desire to become King. In the play ambition is seen as corrupting as it causes Macbeth to lose his nobility and develop into a violent tyrant. Macbeth acts as an example of the consequences from pursuing one’s ambitions without any regards for morality.

Macbeth as a character is a tragic hero, with his tragic flaw being his insatiable ambition. Because of it he gives up everything to become King, his innocence, peace etc. The start of his downfall could be from the start of his madness which begins with his vision of the dagger (Act 2 Scene 1). His ambition causes him immense mental distress and insanity.

Lady Macbeth is seen as a motivator to Macbeth’s ambition to snatch the crown. In order to convince Macbeth she criticises his lack of masculinity. Similarly to Macbeth this ambition drives her to insanity and eventually to suicide.

Shakespeare demonstrates in this play that overwhelming ambition leads to loss and suffering. Both Macbeth and Lady Macbeth end up dead. Their desire for power corrupts them, but also drives the plot.

CONTEXT

1605 there was a plot to blow up King James I (year before Macbeth)
the plot involved secrecy, deception and betrayal
After this attempted assassination, James I made a commemorative medal that features flowers with a serpent hiding (like the quote from Lady Macbeth)

KEY SCENES