The Analysis of the Theme of Ambition in Macbeth, a Play by William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” is a play in which a significant theme is explored throughout the play. Ambition as a human weakness is created and and shown by means of a assortment of strategies. Macbeth is a play in which the main character is thought to be brave and heroic, but as the play progresses we see his descent into becoming a cowardly thief.

Macbeth is believed of as a noble soldier at the start of the play. Following a battle that he played a essential component in winning, we overhear another man discussing his actions.

“Brave Macbeth

He properly deserves that name”

This shows that Macbeth is a respected member of society before his ambition requires over. He is currently entitled to the names given to him, but as the play continues, he quickly becomes much less and less worthy of his titles.

Macbeth is unsure that he deserves to become Thane if Cawdor. He is stunned to have been provided this title. Nevertheless, as he has heard the witches predictions, he begins to wonder if the future has much more in shop for him.

“I know I am of Glamis

But how of Cawdor? The thane of Cawdor lives […] and to be king, stands not within the prospect of belief”

Macbeth is aware this bring him closer to his final objective of king yet is hesitant. This shows all 3 titles the witches promised him and foreshadows the events to come. Shakespeare frequently uses foreshadowing to add tension to scenes which is what produced this one particular so effective in displaying ambition as a weakness.

Macbeth is aware of what he wants yet he is unwilling to share his thoughts with anybody other than his wife. His ambition permits for him to participate in treason if it indicates his desires could turn into reality.

“Stars hide thy fires

Let not light see thy dark and deep desires”

Shakespeare compares Macbeth’s ambition to a fire, vibrant and developing. Nevertheless Macbeth also hopes to smother this fire as he knows he is wrong to plot against his buddy and king.

Macbeth, via the manipulation of his wife, has decided that to grow to be king, he have to kill Duncan. Macbeth’s ambition becomes even clearer here when, in an try to maintain his throne, he plots to murder Banquo without having the manipulation if his wife.

“Our fears in Banquo stick deep”

This shows the only point he cares about now is his throne, he has even thrown his as soon as loved wife aside. Macbeth’s choice to kill his buddy shows how far his ambition has taken him from when he was debating against himself to kill Duncan or not.

Macbeth has grow to be so obsessed with power that his wife’s death means absolutely nothing but inconvenience to him. After lady Macbeth’s suicide, Macbeth is unconcerned, focusing only on how he can preserve his crown.

“She should have died hereafter

Out, out brief candle

Life’s like a walking shadow”

He compares her to a tiny flame that had no effect on the globe. He also claims her life was spent walking in his shadow. This could convey how Macbeth also only ever lives in the dark, following the prophecies shown to him.

In conclusion, William Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’ is a play in which the the theme if ambition is shown and created. Shakespeare, making use of numerous strategies, is in a position to show that ambition, if left unchecked can be disastrous.