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Macbeth - General Themes and Characters

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Written in 1606, authored by William Shakespeare, "Macbeth" emphasises a dark tale of power lust and paranoia which is illustrated in the Jacobean era. Shakespeare was a master of the complexities of the human condition; the unique creation of perspectives in "Macbeth" hold universal appeal as they capture not only lessons of morality for Shakespeare’s original audience but also hold contemporary relevance. The human condition of gender, ambition and the divine right of kings significantly challenge the attitudes, values and beliefs of the characters constructed by Shakespeare during this time. Shakespeare cunningly demonstrates the inevitable corrupting force of ambition as a human weakness throughout the play; the dire consequences of ambition is significantly depicted through the characterization of Macbeth and his wife; Lady Macbeth. To begin with, Macbeth’s ambition is seen in his dominant rise for King as he would indisputably kill all those who were to stand in his way or furthermore pose a threat to his position as king; for example, King Duncan, Banquo and Macduff’s heirs. This ambition of Macbeth is expressed through the quote; "If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me without my stir" (Act I, scene iii). From this, we can conclude that Macbeth’s human condition of ambition caused his lust for ultimate power; which ultimately led to a sociopathic and murderous character. In the lines of “with thy bloody and invisible hand, Cancel and tear to pieces that great bond Which keeps me pale!” (ACT 3 scene 2), Macbeth’s ambition to kill is evident. This quote exemplifies that if the human condition of ambition drives him enough, he will undoubtedly murder, thus, retrieve the throne; Macbeth’s ambition is one in which represents violence. Additionally, Lady Macbeth is expressed through the human condition of ambition throughout the play. Lady Macbeth is perceived as a women lusting to give all for her

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