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How Does Macbeth Change Throughout The Play

Decent Essays

In Shakespeare’s tragedy “Macbeth,” the main character, Macbeth, transforms from a brave warrior to a problematic ruler. In Act 5, Scene 3, Macbeth reflects on how empty virtues like honor, love, obedience, and friendship have become in his life. This moment reveals the consequences of Macbeth’s ambition and actions, questioning the nature of power and morality. Through Macbeth’s thoughts and actions, readers explore the complexities of human behavior and the impact of our choices on our lives. In Act 5, Scene 3, Macbeth expresses his discontent with honor and love, two virtues he once respected. He now views power and ambition as the driving forces behind his actions, overlooking any moral or ethical considerations. Honor became an illusion, overshadowed by the …show more content…

Macbeth’s reflection on honor and love highlights the emptiness of these once-cherished ideals. Additionally, Macbeth reflects on the betrayal of obedience and friendship in Act 5, scene 3. Under Macbeth’s rules, fear and manipulation have become the primary tools used to maintain control and authority, destroying the foundation of obedience. Instead of loyalty and respect, Macbeth’s commands are dishonest and full of betrayal. This shift underlines the moral decay that has filled Macbeth’s reign, as he sacrifices the well-being of others for his own sake. Macbeth’s paranoia extends to his relationship with his once-loyal friends, further intensifying the sense of distrust. Banquo, in particular, becomes the target of Macbeth’s suspicion, as he perceives Banquo’s descendants as threats to the power he has achieved. This betrayal of friendship reinforces the moral decay that has consumed Macbeth, as he sacrifices bonds and trust for the sake of self-protection. Ultimately, Macbeth’s reflections on honor, love, obedience, and friendship serve as a cautionary tale about the consequences of

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