In Shakespeare’s tragedy ‘Macbeth’, written in 1606, ambition is presented as being
significant. Shakespeare shows us that ambition is something to be cautious of as it can
have negative effects, shown through Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. However, it can also
be positive, as shown through Banquo and Macduff.
Banquo received predictions too but he ignores his ambition to stay loyal
, - ‘Lesser than Macbeth and greater’
- ‘Thou shalt get kings, though thou be none’
- Banquo’s children will be King
- ‘Oftentimes to win us to our harm, the instruments of darkness tell us
truths … to betray’s in deepest consequence’
- Banquo gives Macbeth a warning about the witches
- Relieved that Banquo isn’t falling for the witches’ trap
- Written after the gunpowder plot - tried to warn people against plotting
against the King
Shakespeare does this to warn the audience about the danger of betraying the King
The possibility of becoming King made Macbeth overlook his morals as a result
of his ambition being sparked by the witches
, - ‘All hail Macbeth…King hereafter’
- Witches giving Macbeth the idea that he could be King
- ‘Why do I yield to that suggestion’
- Macbeth is confused as to why he is interested in killing Duncan
- His moral conscience is suppressed
- ‘Let not the light see my black and deep desires’
- He realises that ambition is evil & corrupting - he asks God to turn a
blind eye
- ‘To prick the sides of my intent, but only vaulting ambition’
- No reason to kill Duncan other that his ambition
- Disappointed that Macbeth is doing something morally wrong
- The divine right of Kings was the belief that the King was placed on the
throne by God & going against it would lead to consequences
Shakespeare does this to warn the audience how dangerous ambition can be if it isn’t
balanced by reason or morals
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