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Macbeth Essays

There are loads of ways you can approach writing an essay, but the two i favour are detailed below., the key thing to remember is that an essay should focus on the three aos:, ao1: plot and character development; ao2: language and technique; ao3: context, strategy 1 : extract / rest of play, the first strategy basically splits the essay into 3 paragraphs., the first paragraph focuses on the extract, the second focuses on the rest of the play, the third focuses on context. essentially, it's one ao per paragraph, for a really neatly organised essay., strategy 2 : a structured essay with an argument, this strategy allows you to get a much higher marks as it's structured to form an argument about the whole text. although you might think that's harder - and it's probably going to score more highly - i'd argue that it's actually easier to master. mainly because you do most of the work before the day of the exam., to see some examples of these, click on the links below:, lady macbeth as a powerful woman, macbeth as a heroic character, the key to this style is remembering this: you're going to get a question about a theme, and the extract will definitely relate to the theme., the strategy here is planning out your essays before the exam, knowing that the extract will fit into them somehow., below are some structured essays i've put together., macbeth and gender.

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Essay: Macbeth – fate and free will

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Elbert Hubbard, an American Writer, once said, “Life is a compromise between fate and free will.” There is a constant struggle between what fate decides, and what the consequences of free will lead up to. Even if the end of a pathway is predetermined by fate, the way it is reached is through one’s own decisions made by free will. The consequences of these actions made in free will then determines how one comes about their destiny. In Macbeth, written by William Shakespeare, the characters suffer fated deaths resulted from their actions. Fate and free will cohesively go hand in hand ultimately leading up to the deaths of Duncan, Lady Macbeth, and Macbeth. The death of Duncan is determined by fate and free will because the actions of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth led to his death. When Macbeth comes across the witches, they reveal to him that he, “Macbeth, that shalt be king hereafter” (1.3.53), and he becomes ambitious to reach that position quickly. Throughout the play, Macbeth solely lives by the witches’ prophecies, basing his decisions off of what they say. At the time this prophecy was stated, Duncan was King of Scotland. Previously, the witches tell Macbeth that he would be Thane of Cawdor, which became true, so Macbeth believed in the accuracy of the prophecies. This persuaded Macbeth that it was in his fate that he would become King of Scotland, since it was predetermined by the witches. As it was Macbeth’s fate to become King of Scotland, it correlated that Duncan’s fate would be death, in order to fulfill the prophecy. Although it may seem that Duncan’s death was fate, Macbeth’s free will determined how he would take Duncan’s throne. After Macbeth heard his prophecy, he told Lady Macbeth his fate. She suggested that he should kill Duncan, and starts to plan the murder. Initially Macbeth was rather reluctant to Lady Macbeth’s idea of murder, however she later persuaded him into following through with the assassination. As Macbeth saw the blade, he asks, “Is this a dagger which I see before me,/ The handle toward my hand? Come, let me clutch/ thee” (2.1.44-46). Macbeth decides that he will murder Duncan out of his own free will. He explicitly asks for the dagger, “Come let me clutch thee” showing the desire behind his actions. Macbeth’s free will changes proportionally with his characterization, because he went from viewing murder as impure, to now committing one himself. As his values and perceptions change, Macbeth acts differently, which overall influences his free will. Fate and free will are both accountable for Duncan’s death because of the actions Macbeth took to fulfill the witches’ prophecy that he would become king. Lady Macbeth’s free will led to her negative influence on Macbeth, and eventually resulted in her fate, her death. At the beginning of the play, Lady Macbeth’s characterization was headstrong and powerful. She serves as the main influence for Macbeth to murder Duncan, as she extensively argues against Macbeth, demanding that he must follow through with the murder. She uses his own manhood against him by stating, “When you durst do it, then you were a man; / And, to be more than what you were, you would / be so much more the man” (1.7.56-58). Lady Macbeth was the first to know when Macbeth had heard the prophecy of becoming King of Scotland, and was overjoyed by the news. She made sure that he would fulfill his prophecy, regardless of any circumstances. She harshly criticizes Macbeth for not wanting to commit the murder, depreciating him as being less than a so called “man.” Her argument is effective, as Macbeth successfully committed the murder. Lady Macbeth misuses her free will, as she only looks in interest of herself and Macbeth, not considering anybody else being affected by her actions. A change in her characterization occurs after Macbeth had become King of Scotland and abused his power by ordering unnecessary murders. Lady Macbeth becomes overwhelmed with guilt as she was the one who forced the impurity in Macbeth, driving her to be mentally and emotionally unstable. She has a gentlewoman to take care of her, and one day a Doctor comes to visit. He evaluates, “Unnatural deeds/ do breed unnatural troubles. Infected minds/ to their deaf pillows will discharge their secrets./ More needs she the divine than the physician” (5.1.75-78). Lady Macbeth’s fate is determined by her free will because her “unnatural deeds” drove her to have an “infected mind” which is out of the Doctor’s control. Her fate is death, as the Doctor believes that there is nothing that can be done to cure her of her troubles. Lady Macbeth’s free will of previous constraint upon Macbeth has led her to feel responsible for Macbeth’s presiding actions. Macbeth kills former friends who he believes are now enemies, susceptible people, and harmless families, showing the impact of Lady Macbeth’s free will. She eventually commits suicide because the pain was unbearable. If Lady Macbeth had not been so forceful towards Macbeth killing Duncan, he would not have gone insane, and she would not have felt guilty. Fate and free will determine Lady Macbeth’s death because her guilt was oppressive causing her suicide. Macbeth’s death came from his free will to ignore his fate. The witches tell Macbeth his fate through various prophecies which change Macbeth’s characterization dramatically throughout the play. He becomes overconfident in his actions as the witches relieve his worries of anybody killing him. Macbeth begins the play as a pure and caring soldier, but eventually turns into an evil tyrant. Once he fulfilled the witches’ prophecy of becoming King of Scotland, he began to misuse his control of the country. Macbeth states, “The castle of Macduff I will surprise, / seize upon Fife, give to th’ edge o’ th’ sword / His wife, his babies, and all unfortunate souls / That trace him in his line…/ This deed I’ll do before this purpose cool” (4.1.171-175). To ensure his own safety, Macbeth decided to kill anyone that is related to Macduff. A king must put his country before himself, but we see the opposite in Macbeth’s rule. Macbeth is doing everything in his power to protect himself, rather than his country. The witches’ prophecies did not specify his rule, only that he is destined to be King of Scotland, therefore it was Macbeth’s free will that he became a tyrant. We see Macbeth approaching his fate when Macduff comes to battle. During the fight, Macbeth’s last few words were, “Before my body / I throw my warlike shield. Lay on, Macduff, / And damned be him that first cries, ‘Hold! Enough!’” (5.8.37-39). Macduff had killed Macbeth, which was Macbeth’s fate. Macbeth had severely misused his power, resulting in the retaliation of his people, leading to his own death. Fate and free will were responsible for the death of Macbeth, because his unfair ruling angered the people, leading them to avenge. Macbeth, being overconfident, was not prepared for this comeback, and was consequently defeated. Macbeth’s fate was determined by his inconsiderate previous actions, or free will, which led Macduff to murder Macbeth. Fate and free will work together interchangeably to determine the deaths of Duncan, Lady Macbeth, and Macbeth. Fate is predetermined, but the way in which we reach it, is due to our free will. One’s decision will not only impact how they reach their own fate, but also other’s fate. Before making outrageous choices, one must consider the effects it may have on other people and to be mindful of everyone’s lives. Although one may not be able to change their destiny, they can still change their actions and perception to be respectful towards others. 2019-3-11-1552296886

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129 Macbeth Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best macbeth topic ideas & essay examples, 👍 good essay topics on macbeth, 📌 most interesting macbeth topics to write about, 👍 good research topics about macbeth, ❓ macbeth essay questions.

Writing an essay on Shakespearean tragedies may be tricky for some students. There are a lot of ideas to put in your paper, and that may puzzle you. That’s why we’ve prepared a short guide on how to write Macbeth essay.

Macbeth is a tragedy by William Shakespeare based on the true story of Scottish king Macbeth. The play tells us about a Scottish general who heard a prophecy from a trio of witches and decided to bring predictions to fulfillment. This is a drama about the jeopardy of excessive lust for power and betrayal of friends.

Some researchers state that William Shakespeare adopted the plot from Holinshed’s Chronicles, a popular history of England, while others argue that the plot of the play was borrowed from George Buchanan. Before you start your Macbeth essay, you should do thorough research on facts and fiction around the play.

To give you ideas on how and what to write in your essay, check the tips below:

Check our Macbeth essay samples to acquire knowledge on characters: Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, King Duncan, Banquo, Malcolm, Macduff, Three Witches, and others. Each character is unique, and it’s quite easy to write a paper on each of them. Make a meticulous analysis of each of them, if you decide to write an essay on Macbeth characters. Use dialogues and monologues as supporting arguments to your ideas.
In your Macbeth essay introduction provide readers with the thesis statement and a summary you’re going to discuss in the paper. Specify what exactly you will depict or analyze. Sometimes, you may need to write the intro after you finish the body and already have done an in-depth analysis of text and critique materials.
When writing body paragraphs, describe the essay topic in detail. Start each section with a short statement, provide a supporting quote, explain it, and make a conclusion. You can always analyze IvyPanda Macbeth essay titles to learn various points of view on each character and event.
In the Macbeth essay conclusion, reiterate a topic and your analysis. You should not only summarize the information you’ve gathered and analyzed in the paper body. You have to get back to the intro and provide clear and extensive answers on the questions you raised. Try not to leave any further questions for your readers. Here’s the secret: some professors read the conclusion first. So make it persuasive and give a complete portion of information.

You may be wondering how to use essay examples that you may find on our website. It is super easy. First of all, look through the titles to get some topic ideas.

Then, look through the sample and learn how to create your outline. Think about what you can write in your essay. Check the bibliography: there you can find useful sources for the research.

Indeed, any paper on Shakespeare’s play may concern a variety of topics. So check out our Macbeth essay examples and think of the topics which you can choose.

Betrayal in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” The betrayer, Macbeth betrays the King, friend and other subjects in the kingdom. However when Macbeth is told he has just been chosen as the Thane of Cawdor, scenes of the possibilities of him as […]
Dramatic Irony in Macbeth Essay Shakespeare uses dramatic irony to amuse the audience and to show the level of deception developed by the main character. The porter gives a clear picture of what is about to happen.
The Use of Hands as a Motif in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” The play presents readers with the world of royalty and the well-knit state; the world of Duncan, his two sons, Banquo, Macbeth and the whole of Scotland and England.
William Shakespeare: Hamlet and Macbeth It is important to examine the role that the setting plays in Hamlet and Macbeth in relation to the tragic flaw and developments of the plot.
Supernatural Elements of Act I and II in Macbeth In the play, the supernatural things are central to the plot of the play as they provide a basis for action as Shakespeare meant them to fit in putting the play together.
Macbeth & Frankenstein: Compare & Contrast In the being of the play, we assume that Macbeth is akin to the king, a loyal soldier, and a person “full of the milk of human kindness”.
Unchecked Ambition in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” However, in Act 1, scenes 1 to 4, the audience is introduced to Macbeth’s increasing fear and the developing desire to be the king. It appears that the desire to be the king overrides his […]
Concept of Power in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” While The government is the system that makes laws and ensures that they are followed, it is the person who wields power who is responsible for the equality and impartiality of its enforcement.
The Downfall of Macbeth Nonetheless, he goes on to murder the king and his character takes a turn for the worst as he kills the chamberlains who would give witness of the king’s death and he claims he killed […]
The Life and Work of William Shakespeare: His Contribution to the Contemporary Theater In addition, the plays and sonnets of William Shakespeare continue to set the standard for the study of the English language in its dramatic context in institutes of higher learning and performance training.
Character Analysis of “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare The unplanned overnight stay of King Duncan and his entourage at Macbeth’s castle precipitates Macbeth’s first fateful decision: to murder King Duncan and clear the way for the witches’ prophecy to come true.
Emotions and Outward Actions in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” In this regard, in William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the relationship of inward emotions and outward actions is relevant in fully conveying the interplay of themes in this tragedy.
Macbeth and Hamlet Characters Comparison The queens in Hamlet and Macbeth play a pivotal role in the life of the heroes of the play. She is portrayed as a mother who, in her awareness of Hamlet’s crisis, feels guilty and […]
British Literature: Beowulf vs. Macbeth They are as follows: the presentation of the heroes, the consideration of the ethical themes, and the final stages of the plays the latter help to draw some ethical conclusions based on the peculiarity of […]
Macbeth Versions Comparison Film Analysis The use of classic settings in the design of the play helps in portraying the role that gangsters play in the original play of Macbeth and helps present it in the modern world.
The “Macbeth” Film by Rupert Goold While Shakespeare’s play happened in the 11th century in Scotland, the movie’s design is more similar to the events of the 20th century. Corresponding to the era of the first half of the 20th century, […]
Omens in The “Macbeth” Play by William Shakespeare The supernatural was an aspect of the plot structure used to add tension and drama to the occurrences and situations and manifested in various ways. To conclude, the owl and raven were utilized as omens […]
Shakespeare Tragedies: Macbeth and King Lear At the beginning of the play, he decides to abdicate his throne and divide his kingdom among his three daughters. This choice eventually undermines the ethical integrity of this character, and he murders murder to […]
Literary Character Analysis of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” The very reason that made me write about this character was how he is depicted as a hero in the opening pages of the play, and only to learn how weak he is from his […]
“Macbeth” by William Shakespeare: Language and Tropes Typically, ‘the end of something means the onset of another.’ Using this as a viewpoint that provides a lead to what Macbeth is all about, the fact that ‘we will proceed no further in this […]
Themes in the Tragedy of Macbeth by Shakespeare The character of Macbeth is used by Shakespeare to illustrate a man who lacks the strength of moral fiber under the affection of guilt and ambition.
Representing the Heroic: Macbeth and Odysseus In Homer’s Odyssey, the noble nature of the hero is made clear in the way that his servants speak of him and strive to behave as he would expect.
Comparison of the Opening Scene of Macbeth by Orson Welles and The Tragedy of Macbeth by Roman Polanski The opening scene of The Tragedy of Macbeth starts with the words “fair is foul and foul is fair” that Polanski takes from the end of the Shakespeare’s scene.
Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” and Sophocles’ “Oedipus” The idea of a person being in the center of the action and trying to overcome some problems connected with doom, fate and some other supernatural forces become peculiar to this kind of art.
Shakespearean Macbeth as a Tragic Hero In addition to fighting for his king, Macbeth is quickly and well rewarded for his efforts as King Duncan makes him the new Thane of Cawdor in addition to his already holding the title of […]
Shakespeare Literature: Prophecy and Macbeth Morality The divination made by the witches pushes Macbeth further into immorality as he is made to believe that he deserves the position of king. In addition, Macbeth abandons reason and morality so as to make […]
The Play “Macbeth” by Shakespeare and the Film “Maqbool” by Bhardwaj Bhardwaj’s Maqbool is a great example of how the weather sets the tone for the story, it is not the backdrop in the film, but an active force expressing the psychological state of the characters.
Supernatural in “Macbeth” Play by Shakespeare The supernaturally manufactured predictions lure Macbeth and Banquo with the idea of power, leading Macbeth to plot the cruel murder of Duncan.
Analyzing the Adaptation of the Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” Furthermore, the names of all the characters in both films are the same except for a little twist in the spelling of names like Mcbeth and Mcduff.
Shakespeare and His View on Kingship: Macbeth, King Lear and Othello At the same time, it is beyond doubt in the basement Macbeth’s character is clean and as a soldier, he is true to his job and his king.
Philosophy of Literature: Shakespearean Tragedy In addition, it is also an indication of the facts that human beings are always nosy and ready to participate in other people’s issues.
Jeffrey R. Wilson: Macbeth and Criminology The genre of tragedy used in Macbeth poses the question to the reader: who is responsible for committing a crime – the individual or the society?
Intro to Theatre: “Macbeth” Shakespeare’s theatrical performances are widespread all over the world and do not lose their relevance, both due to the problems raised by the playwright and the various interpretations of his works. One of such plays is the production of Macbeth directed by Bodinetz (2020) and created by the troupe of Digital Theater +. The performance […]
The Story of Macbeth by W. Sheakspeare: Relationship and Strengths Between Macbeth and His Wife Lady Macbeth reads a letter her husband had written about the witches’ prophecy and manipulates him to kill King Duncan and take over the kingdom.
Analysis of Characters in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” The witches’ predictions spark Macbeth’s ambitions and then hearten his violent performance; Lady Macbeth offers the brains and the will behind her husband’s intrigues; and the only heavenly being to emerge is Hecate, the divinity […]
Shakespeare’s Tragedy of Macbeth The world of Macbeth is a world of contradiction. Already a successful soldier in the army of King Duncan, Macbeth is informed by Three Witches that he is to become “Thane of Glamis!”, “Thane of […]
Shakespear’s “Macbeth”: Main Character Change Analysis Macbeth is essentially the story of a character who lives his life in a state of confusion to the degree that the only constant in his life changes.
Chaucer’s ‘Miller’s Tale’ and Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’ Chaucer’s The Miller’s Tale and in Shakespeare’s Macbeth, to be more exact, we will find out how the notion of poetic justice is represented by examples of the main characters of the works mentioned.
An Explication on Shakespeare’s Macbeth However, Macbeth’s wife is murdered and the news is broken to him, and he is drifted into a life of futility and remorsefulness.
Literary Elements in “Macbeth” Poem In addition, use of Symbolism imagery and symbolism creates a better picture in audience mind, concerning the themes that the play covers; such as where dark is used to represent evil.
King Macbeth in Shakespeare’s Play and History He proved to be a courageous man and ambitious because he wanted to become the king, and the only way he could do it was by killing the king.
Characters’ Traits in Shakespeare’s Macbeth As weird as it might sound, Lady Macbeth is very emotional; as a matter of fact, the crimes that she committed can be attributed to her emotionality rather than her greed, though the latter has […]
Macbeth: An Analysis of the Play by Shakespeare Macbeth’s treachery springs from his reliance to the witches who gave him prophecy that results in his endless creation of enemies.
Oedipus King vs. Macbeth: Drama Comparison The concept reflects the foundation of the decent authority through showing the tendencies of power both in the ancient times and in the period of Renaissance.
Drama Macbeth: Shakespeare’s Play and Wells’ Film However, the play communicates the meaning of the text in a better way as compared to the film by Orson Wells.
Macbeth by Shakespeare and Oedipus by Sophocles Comparison In Act 1 Scene 3 of Macbeth, we have the three witches who greet him and inform him that he is to become the “Thane of Cawdor,” the title that he will receive that evening, […]
Power and Evocation of Horror: The Macbeth Witches’ Chant Among them are the rhymes, the rhythm of the words, the interpolation of a chorus, the increasing complexity of the lines as the poem progresses, and the vivid and horrifying imagery.
The Ambitions and Immoral Decision in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
Analyzing Macbeth’s Conscience Throughout Shakespeare’s Play “Macbeth”
Murder and Power in William Shakespeare’s Play “Macbeth”
Unprincipled Ambition in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Use of Supernatural to Create Suspense in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Psychological Victimization of William Shakespeare’s Protagonist in “Macbeth”
Responsibility for Planning to Kill Duncan in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Dramatic Techniques to Create a Sense That Macbeth Is Not in Control of His Own Thoughts and Deeds
An Analysis of Jam-Packed With Malfeasance and Darkness in the Play “Macbeth” by Shakespeare
The Application of Imagery in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
Witches, Supernatural, and Evil in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
The Banquet Scene of William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Analyzing Macbeth’s Weak Character in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Ambition Often Results in Greed as Portrayed in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Psychoanalytical Criticism of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Women as The Driving Action of the Play in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare’s Manipulation of the Audience Through “Macbeth”
Suspense and the Supernatural in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
Sharing the Blame in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Macbeth’s Tragic Downfall in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
The Characterization of Macbeth in Relation to the Development of Scotland in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
Role Reversal in William Shakespeare’s Play “Macbeth”
The Butcher and His Fiend Like Queen in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Supernatural Forces Create a Suspense Atmosphere in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
The Archetypal Tragic Hero Characteristics of William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” and Sophocles’ “Oedipus”
An Analysis of Macbeth as a Victim of Circumstances in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
Power, Ambition, and Treason in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
The Breakdown of Lady Macbeth in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Unbridled Ambition in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
The Art of Appeasement and the Political, Religious, and Social Issues Reflected in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Parallels Between Macbeth and Satan in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
Some of the Ways in Which Shakespeare Portrays an Atmosphere of Evil in “Macbeth”
An Analysis of Lady Macbeth’s Character in “Macbeth” by Shakespeare
The Blood Imagery in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
Macbeth’s Representation of Ambition in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
The Attract of Wicked in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
The Manipulations, Greed, and Guilt in William Shakespeare’s Play “Macbeth”
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Symbolism and Imagery in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
Subjective Reality to the Viewer in the Play “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
The Betrayal of Human Nature in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
Treatment of Gender Disruption in William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” and “Macbeth”
Significance of Act Four Scene One in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Role of Women in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
Recurring Images in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
Similarities Between the Philosophies From Machiavelli’s “The Prince” and Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
The Aristotelian Standards of a Tragic Hero in the Tragedy of “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
Struggles of the Conscience in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
The Battle Between Good and Evil in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Sleep and Its Meaning in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
Relationship Between Spouses in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
A Musical Analysis of “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
What Did Macbeth’s Character, Words, and Actions Show About Changes in His Character?
Who Are the Women in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”?
When Power Falls Into the Wrong Hands in “Macbeth”?
Why Are the Period and Place Important in “Macbeth”?
What Makes William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” a Pessimistic Play?
How Ambitions and Immoral Decision Play a Part in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”?
How and Why Does Macbeth Turn a War Hero Into an Evil Murderer?
Did the Three Witches Push Macbeth to Kill Duncan?
What Are the Attitudes Towards Gender Can Be Seen in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”?
What Part Does the Supernatural Play in “Macbeth”?
Was Macbeth Responsible for His Downfall?
Does Shakespeare Present Lady Macbeth as Good or Evil?
Can One Feel Pity for Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”?
What Dramatic Techniques Are Used in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”?
How Did Lady Macbeth and Macbeth’s Relationship Change Throughout the Play?
What Did Macbeth Say About Good and Evil?
Does Shakespeare Present Lady Macbeth as Fiend-Like?
Does Macbeth Have Power?
How Did Macbeth Turn From “Nobel Macbeth” to “A Bloody Butcher”?
What Does Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” Have to Say About Kingship?
Did Macbeth Suffer From Fate?
What Are the Character Traits of Lady Macbeth?
Does Macbeth Have Free Will?
What Are the Influences of the Witches’ Prophecies on Macbeth’s Actions?
How Are the Themes of Appearance and Reality Presented in “Macbeth”?
How Are Characters Presented as Disturbed in “Macbeth”?
Was Macbeth Considered the Tragic Hero of the Play?
How Did Lady Macbeth and Witches Change?
What Are the Differences and Similarities Between “Medea” and “Macbeth” Plays?
What Factors Lead Macbeth to Kill Duncan?
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Macbeth - Free Essay Samples And Topic Ideas

Macbeth is a tragedy by William Shakespeare, exploring themes of ambition, power, and moral decay through the story of a Scottish general who becomes king through treachery. Essays on “Macbeth” can delve into the character analysis, the use of supernatural elements, and the play’s enduring relevance in modern discussions on ambition and ethics. Moreover, examinations of the sociopolitical commentary and the psychological complexities within the play could provide rich analysis. A vast selection of complimentary essay illustrations pertaining to Macbeth you can find in Papersowl database. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

What is the Theme of Macbeth?

Macbeth is one of the finest and bloodiest pieces of art written by the famous William Shakespeare. Unlike most of Shakespeare plays that mostly focus on love and trust, this play uniquely takes a dark approach for the worst. Upon reading the dark and mysterious literature of Macbeth, us as readers can conclude and take out a handful of themes. However, one that particularly stands out the most is ambition and corrupt power. More specifically, power corrupts you, makes you […]

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Power in Macbeth

Macbeth's underlining theme is power. Power means different things for different people. How people react to power varies by how you attain power, retain power, and ultimately lose power. Power can lead someone to ambiton and make them vulnerable. What motivates the person with power, shows their true selves. Once someone has power they may be suprised at what they are willing to do to keep it. Vulnerability and ambition are characteristics of someone in power. Macbeth was a loyal […]

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Macbeth was a play introduced in the early 1600. It took place in England where Macbeth was to become future king, or so he thought. Quickly, he realized that everything he imagined he would become wasn't going to happen. The crown would be passed down to one of Macduffs sons. So in order to obtain the crown he decided to start killing of the his sons heirs. This play has exposed a few symbols, one including blood. The symbol of […]

The Theme of Fate in Macbeth

Fate and free will is a very central topic in Macbeth? , a play by shakespeare. We are going to look at alot of questions revolving around this topic . Such as, what does fate and free will even mean ? Do they come together as a whole or are they two different things? Also looking at the evidence of who is responisible for the tradgedy that is Macbeth . You'll also find that Macbeth follows up more on free […]

Macbeth: the Psychological Effects of Guilt

Guilt plays a large role in human society and how humans work. It's a powerful feeling and if it gets put on the back burner, it might just explode. An example of this is Macbeth by William Shakespeare. In Macbeth, Lady Macbeth slowly lets her guilty conscience eat at her sanity before she goes crazy. Her insanity causes her to commit suicide. Her experience is shown through words and her actions. She doesn't address her conscience which makes her go […]

Drawbacks of Power

Power, a phenomenon as addictive as any drug, should be given to those who are equipped to properly handle it and its effects. If power is given to those with a strong sense of ambition, it may lead to their downfall. Power is given to Macbeth when him and his companion, Banquo, come upon these three witches who deliver them three prophecies: Macbeth will be the Thane of Cawdor Macbeth will be the King of Scotland Banquo will have a […]

Was Macbeth a Sympathetic Character?

Sometimes a fictional evil character isn't actually evil. The characters seen as wicked will sometimes have reasons behind everything they do. This makes them more sympathetic, setting them apart from typical villains. In Shakespeare's play, Macbeth, Macbeth gets 3 prophecies from a group of witches, one of which claiming he will become king. After a chain of events that lead him to believe the witches, he stops at nothing so he's sure he will become king. Macbeth is a sympathetic […]

Symbolism of Weather in Macbeth

The weather plays an important role in Macbeth. The foul weather of thunder, lightning, rain, and strong winds have importance in Macbeth. At the beginning of the acts, the sky is sunny and when something bad occurs the weather changes to foreshadow all the bad things that will happen in the future. When the covens appear in act one, they agree to meet by saying When shall we three meet again? In thunder, lightning or rain? She says this because […]

Patriarchy and the Shakespearean Woman

William Shakespeare writes during a time when patriarchy was prevalent. Shakespeare includes these personas and attitudes within his plays to illustrate how these ideals played out. He works also to create female characters that hold their male counterparts accountable. In this paper, there will be a review of patriarchal patterns within A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hamlet, Henry IV, Macbeth, and King Lear but additionally how the female characters counteract the hegemonic masculinity. Because patriarchal patterns were prevalent in the time […]

The Tragedy of Macbeth: Themes of the Story

The Tragedy of Macbeth was one of the most iconic plays of all time. It was written with many themes that helped the audience better understand the play and also connect and feel what the play was about. Showing the meanings of the all the senses in the play though the six themes. The two themes that develop over the entire course of the play is the relationship between violence and masculinity and that the guilt haunts the guilty. Throughout […]

Corruption of Power in Macbeth

Throughout the course of history there have been many powerful political and military figures, who all took power too seriously and strayed off the path of being a fair and worthy leader. Instead some leaders such as Kim Jong Il, Mao Zedong, and Joseph Stalin have become corrupt with power, much like Macbeth and Lady Macbeth did in Shakespeare's Macbeth. The struggle for power shown by each of the political leaders illustrates just how far some will go to gain […]

Macbeth: Social Structure of the Elizabethan Era

Bubonic Plague, commonly known as the Black Death, hit Europe in the year 1347, killing over one third of the entire European population (History of the Plague). In the centuries following, Europe would undergo transformation or rebirth in a time period known as the Renaissance. With new life came new inspiration for authors and poets alike, and introduced the world to an age of literature hitherto undreamt of. The most famous of these authors and poets was the prolific William […]

Literary Techniques in Shakespeare’s Macbeth

Queen Elizabeth uses appeals to Pathos, Ethos, and Logos in order to rouse her army. She appeals to Pathos by creating pity for herself. Queen Elizabeth says “I know I have the body but of a weak and feeble woman” (Lines 6-7). She makes the soldiers feel pity for the Queen and they will want to fight for her. Queen Elizabeth appeals to Ethos by demonstrating her character and her willingness to fight for her country. Queen Elizabeth says “to […]

Lady Macbeth Character Analysis

Woman Macbeth is one of Shakespeare's most renowned and alarming female characters. When we first observe her, she is as of now plotting Duncan's homicide, and she is more grounded, more merciless, and more aspiring than her better half. She appears to be completely mindful of this and realizes that she should push Macbeth into submitting murder. At a certain point, she wishes that she were not a lady with the goal that she could do it without anyone's help. […]

New Historicism: the Interrelation of Art and Society in Macbeth

In Shakespeare’s literature, the theory of new historicism is presented within the storylines. When interpreting the text, both the history of the author as well as the critic are kept in context and serve to give the most depth to the literature. Both aspects of Shakespeare’s literature are highlighted, acknowledging the author’s and critic’s influences, which cause the pieces to be appreciated as multifaceted and complex works. An author’s specific circumstances and time play an impactful role, in contrast to […]

Nature’s Influence on Shakespeare’s Macbeth

Bubonic Plague, commonly known as the Black Death, hit Europe in the year 1347, and killed over one third of the entire European population. In the centuries following, Europe would undergo transformation or rebirth in a time period known as the Renaissance. With new life came new inspiration for author and poets alike and the world was introduced to an age of literature hitherto undreamt of. The most famous of these authors and poets was William Shakespeare who wrote many […]

The Tragedy of MacBeth

A tragedy is a literary work depicting serious events in which the main character, often high-ranking and dignified, comes to an unhappy end. Going off of this description, Macbeth aligns nearly perfectly. His snowballing misfortunes and fatal end meet the requirements of a modern tragic hero, but does he check off the exact boxes created by the Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle when creating a true tragic hero? Shakespeare's lead character Macbeth is as Aristotle requires to be a tragic hero; […]

Macbeth Character Analysis

Macbeth , a series of many tragedies involving murder and the element of betrayal of loyalty but it's nothing compared to the amount of greed that has been instilled in macbeth. But he wasn't always a unloyal backstabber he wasn't always this bad character. At the beginning of the story macbeth is know as a warrior he has fought a battle and he has won in many people's eyes he is a hero and he has earned the title thane […]

The Symbol of Blood in Macbeth

Theme statement: Blood symbolizes the guilt between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth for all of their unholy murders, causing them to have hallucinations and for LadyMacbeth to become mentally ill. Quote Sandwich #1 When Macbeth has just killed Duncan and is meeting with LadyMacbeth, he is terrified of the blood on his and will not go back to place the daggers because he can not just simply wash away his sins as Lady Macbeth wants him too. Blood is portrayed as […]

What where Macbeth’s Motives

Hook. These are all entertaining stories in which the antagonist or villain is also portrayed as valiant, compassionate, or even remorseful. Antagonists are often painted in a positive light when they regret their actions, making the reader empathize with and feel sorry for them. In Macbeth, Shakespeare introduces Macbeth as one of King Duncan’s generals who suddenly becomes ambitious after hearing the witches’ prophecy. Throughout the course of the play, Macbeth is seen not only has a harsh villain who […]

What is Significant about the Weather in Macbeth?

Awful weather has been an image of prohibiting something evil. Thunder and lighting of ten goes with villians in writing and more often than not sets the tone for a dim and discouraging scene, Macbeth is the same. Thunder and lighting is present all throughout the play as though blatenting denoting it's dull minutes. The image of terrible climate dependably portends awful things inside Shakespeare. Significance of The Witches in Macbeth The scene with three witches are the most noticeable; […]

The Many Different Faces of Macbeth

While Macbeth is considered one of Shakespeare's most dramatic characters, he's not a hero but he isn't a villain either. Macbeth had noble qualities as well as tragic flaws. Macbeth's feelings and actions towards certain things change throughout the scenes after evil pursued Macbeth's loyal and honest character. Macbeth's character has a rising and falling action with the weird sisters who plot against him. Throughout the scenes, Macbeth's appearance changed internally as he grew more and more ambitious for power. […]

Brutality and Treachery in Shakespeare’s Macbeth

The father of English drama, better known as William Shakespeare wrote Macbeth to view a perspective of ambition and bloodlust in exchange for a goal. Some great themes of Macbeth include great ambition or lust for power ultimately brings ruin, difference between kingship and tyranny and guilt haunts the guilty throughout the story progression Macbeth demonstrates the worst of what he and Lady Macbeth can become following these themes. With the themes being very prevalent as the story progresses make […]

The Character of Macduff in Macbeth

Around evening time, in the ruler's royal residence at Dunsinane, a specialist and a woman of her word talk about Woman Macbeth's bizarre propensity for sleepwalking. All of a sudden, Woman Macbeth enters in a stupor with a flame in her grasp. Lamenting the homicides of Woman Macduff and Banquo, she appears to see blood staring her in the face and claims that nothing will ever wash it off. She leaves, and the specialist and woman of her word wonder […]

How Blood Changes Macbeth

In Macbeth, William Shakespeare, there is a lot of chaos going on and one of the main reasons for the chaos problems is the topic of blood. Macbeth shows a lot of different personalities in this play about the things that show the most change are how he acts. He changes by not really caring how other people may feel. In Macbeth, William Shakespeare blood is one of the main topics because it shows how much Macbeth has changed from […]

Macbeth: the Tragic Hero

On the evening of Friday, November 9th, I had the pleasure of seeing one of Williams Shakespeare's most famous tragedies, Macbeth, was exquisitely performed at the University of West Georgia Theater Company in the Black Box at the TCPA Richard Dangle Theater. Although the tragic events in the play where difficult to comprehend due to Shakespeare's early modern language, it was an enjoyable night of theatre. Macbeth can be viewed as a cautionary tale because it shows that not everything […]

Corruption and Violence in Shakespeare’s Macbeth

Throughout Shakespeare's The Tragedy of Macbeth the themes of corrupting power of power and the relationship of violence and masculinity are most occuring. The character development of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth overall skyrocketed between Duncan's death and Banquo's. The corruption of Macbeth was ultimately the downfall and, having the power he gained through murder was the breaking point/climax of the play. Violence was what lady macbeth brough to the table, telling macbeth over and over again that his masculinity wasn't […]


Release date :	December 31, 2021 (Japan)
Director :	Joel Coen
Adapted from :	Macbeth
Cinematography :	Bruno Delbonnel
Music by :	Carter Burwell
Production companies :	A24; IAC Films

How To Write an Essay About Macbeth

Understanding 'macbeth'.

Before embarking on writing an essay about Shakespeare's 'Macbeth,' it's crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the play. 'Macbeth' is a tragedy that delves into the dark aspects of human ambition, power, and moral corruption. The play follows the story of Macbeth, a Scottish general whose ambition is sparked by a prophecy from three witches and further fueled by his wife, leading him down a path of murder, tyranny, and eventual downfall. Begin your essay by summarizing the plot, highlighting key events in Macbeth's rise and fall. Understand the main characters – Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, the Three Witches, and others – and their roles and relationships within the story. It's also important to grasp the historical and cultural context of the play, including its themes of kingship, natural order, and guilt.

Developing a Thesis Statement

A compelling essay on 'Macbeth' should be centered around a clear, concise thesis statement. This statement should present a specific viewpoint or argument about the play. For example, you might discuss the psychological complexity of Macbeth's character, analyze the theme of ambition and its consequences, or examine the role of supernatural elements in the play's narrative. Your thesis will guide the structure and content of your essay, providing a focused path for your analysis.

Gathering Textual Evidence

To support your thesis, gather evidence from the text. This involves closely reading the play to find relevant quotes, dialogues, and scenes that align with your thesis. For instance, if you're discussing the corrupting power of ambition, identify key moments where Macbeth or Lady Macbeth exhibit signs of moral decline. Use these examples to build your argument and give depth to your analysis.

Analyzing Shakespeare's Techniques and Themes

In your essay, analyze how Shakespeare uses literary techniques to develop the play's themes and characters. Discuss his use of language, imagery, symbolism, and dramatic structure. For example, explore how the motif of blood serves to symbolize guilt and remorse. Your analysis should demonstrate a deep understanding of the text and how Shakespeare communicates his ideas.

Concluding the Essay

Conclude your essay by summarizing your main arguments and restating your thesis in light of the discussion. Your conclusion should tie together your insights into 'Macbeth,' emphasizing the significance of your findings. Reflect on the broader implications of the play, such as its relevance in modern times or its contribution to the genre of tragedy.

Reviewing and Refining Your Essay

After writing your essay, review and refine it. Ensure that your arguments are coherent, your evidence is clearly presented, and your writing is free of grammatical errors. Consider seeking feedback from teachers or peers to help improve your essay. A well-crafted essay on 'Macbeth' will not only demonstrate your understanding of the play but also your ability to engage critically with Shakespearean literature.

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A Summary and Analysis of Macbeth’s ‘Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow’ Speech

By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University)

Macbeth’s speech beginning ‘Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow …’ is one of the most powerful and affecting moments in Shakespeare’s tragedy. Macbeth speaks these lines just after he has been informed of the death of his wife, Lady Macbeth, who has gone mad before dying (off stage). You can find our fully plot summary of the play here and our analysis of Macbeth here.

In this post, we’re going to consider Macbeth’s ‘Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow’ speech, looking closely at the language and imagery.

Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow, Creeps in this petty pace from day to day, To the last syllable of recorded time; And all our yesterdays have lighted fools The way to dusty death. Out, out, brief candle! Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player, That struts and frets his hour upon the stage, And then is heard no more. It is a tale Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, Signifying nothing.

Spoken upon hearing of the death of his wife, Macbeth’s speech from towards the end of this play, Shakespeare’s shortest tragedy, has become famous for its phrases ‘full of sound and fury / Signifying nothing’ and ‘Out, out, brief candle!’

In summary, Macbeth’s speech is about the futility and illusoriness of all life and everything we do: we are all bound for the grave, and life doesn’t seem to mean anything, ultimately. He is responding to the news that Lady Macbeth is dead here; it’s the beginning of the end for him.

There is, in fact, a couple of lines preceding ‘Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow’, which explicitly address the news that Lady Macbeth has died. But they are ambiguous. Upon being told by Seyton ‘The Queen, my Lord, is dead’, Macbeth replies: ‘She should have died hereafter: / There would have been time for such a word’.

What does he mean by this? Is Macbeth simply saying, ‘She would have died at some point anyway’ (thus paving the way for his ensuing meditation on the futility of all human ambition, since it all leads to the grave)? Or is he saying, ‘It would have been better if she had died later’?

The second line, ‘There would have been time for such a word’ (i.e. the word ‘dead’), inclines us towards the latter: Macbeth appears to be saying that it would have been preferable for Lady Macbeth to die peacefully after all of the conflict and battle. There would have been time to say their goodbyes and for him to mourn properly. Not so in the heat of battle (which Macbeth is when he hears the news).

Lady Macbeth’s death, then, prompts Macbeth to reflect upon the futility of all of his actions: his ‘overweening ambition’, which has spurred him on to commit murder (and murder of a king , no less) and take the kingdom for himself, has all been for nothing now he is truly alone, with most of the lords rallying to Macduff and standing against Macbeth.

Lady Macbeth was the one who urged her husband to murder Duncan, and now she has died, having been pricked by her conscience over what they have done. (In her last scene in the play, Lady Macbeth is observed sleepwalking and miming the washing of her hands: her conscious mind may repress it, but her unconscious, as Freud would later argue , forces the truth to come out.)

As with much of the rest of the play, the lines spoken in verse are an example of blank verse : unrhymed iambic pentameter .

But look at how the simplicity and dulling repetition of the first line, containing just five words (three of them the same) gives way to a line containing nine small (or ‘petty’) words:

Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow, Creeps in this petty pace from day to day …

In other words, the days of our lives creep at a slow rate, with petty meaning small here. Note the repetition (tomorrow, day to day) to reinforce the laboriousness and repetitiveness of the passing of time, as well as the slight anger in the plosive alliteration of petty pace .

To the last syllable of recorded time;

In other words, until the very end of the world, the apocalypse, where all time ceases to be.

And all our yesterdays have lighted fools The way to dusty death.

And every day that has already occurred in the past has only brought fools one day closer to their deaths. More alliteration, with dusty death inviting the actor playing Macbeth to highlight and emphasise the harsh d sounds.

Out, out, brief candle! Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player, That struts and frets his hour upon the stage, And then is heard no more.

Life is like a candle which burns for a short while only, so Macbeth argues that it should just be put out, since it will soon be ‘out’ anyway. He then likens life to an actor who comes out onto the stage, struts his stuff, says his lines for an ‘hour’, and then disappears again.

It is a tale Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, Signifying nothing.

Continuing the idea of life as an actor upon a stage for an hour only, Macbeth develops this, thinking about plays, illusion, stories, and fictions: life is like a story, but a bad story, told by someone too stupid and blustering to say anything of significance. In short, what is the point of anything, when a man’s life appears to achieve nothing? Duncan is dead; Banquo is dead; Lady Macbeth is dead; and Macbeth seems ready for his own death, now all appears lost.

‘Sound and fury’ is a more interesting phrase than it first appears: it’s an example of hendiadys , a curious literary device whereby one idea is expressed by two ‘substantives’ (specifically, nouns or adjectives). These two substantives are joined by the word ‘and’. In Macbeth’s phrase, ‘sound and fury’ are not two distinct phenomena, but more intimately joined: what ‘sound and fury’ means here is something like ‘furious sound’.

It is part of the power of this speech that Macbeth’s language conveys his disordered mental state, the fact that he is overcome by the pointlessness of his whole endeavour, and – because he cannot escape his own mind – of life itself.

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4 thoughts on “A Summary and Analysis of Macbeth’s ‘Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow’ Speech”

Is ‘dusty death’ hendiadys as well?

Is the entire speech a raving example of mixed metaphors? Count them all. Does that indicate Macbeth has lost control of his expression? Has his vaulting ambition o’er leapt the tropic barrier? Has he borrowed the robes of a manic philosopher?

Sound and fury. Sound implies noise, a criticism of Macbeth’s content. Fury, that links to an odd aspect of this speech. It moves through emotional registers: contemplative and introspective, anger at what history leads us to understand, grief at what the moment has become, death’s waiting room. How an actor, reader treats those last three words, in a trailing voice or shouting at fate or somewhere in between, colors all that’s gone before.

Most people will disagree, but this speech at the turn to the 17th C. anticipates 19th C existentialism’s we come from nothing, nothing we do matters, and we go to nothing.

Nothing endures to this day.

It is appropriate that this speech, expressing total demoralisation, should be prompted by the death of Macbeth’s wife. In the unavoidable battle to come, it is Macduff, whose own wife – and children – Macbeth has had murdered, who, driven by righteous rage, finally dispatches the tyrant.

In answer to Don’s comment I disagree about “mixed metaphors”. There is certainly a rich profusion of metaphors, but my idea of a mixed metaphor is where one metaphor contains contradictory images – a classic example being “If you have a spark of charity in your heart, for heaven’s sake, water it and let it grow.” Sorry to sound pedantic!

You note the two previous lines referring to the death of Lady Macbeth. Also worth noting maybe is the line afterwards when a messenger enters: [Enter messenger] Macbeth : Thou comest to use thy tongue; thy story quickly. Macbeth now turns from the reflections on the meaning of life to his daily routine of battle and slaughter, without missing a beat! The “tale told by an idiot” is followed up by a “story” told by “a messenger”. The story of course is highly idiotic too: Birnam Wood is moving! However idiotic, the tale and the story must go on.

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The play examines the corrupting power of ambition. Whose ambition functions as the driving force of the narrative , Macbeth or Lady Macbeth? Why?

How do gender expectations and perceptions intersect with violence in the play? To what extent do characters play into or fight against gender roles?

The weather is an ever-present force in Macbeth. How does the weather reflect the emotional state of the characters? Of the trajectory of the play?

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How to Write a Good Expository Essay About Macbeth

Table of contents:

Introduction and thesis

Body paragraphs.

If you want to write an expository essay about the play Macbeth and want to know how to start, it’s important to get your statement of purpose, or thesis, figured out first. An expository essay, remember, is based on factual information, endeavouring to explain to the reader something they might not know already.

First, start with an introduction, including a hook straight away to get your readers’ attention. Then you can approach your topic in one of five different ways: problem/solution, comparison, how-to, descriptive, and cause/effect. At this point you should write a thesis statement, or statement of purpose, explaining the main topic or point of your essay.

Here are a few samples of ideas for thesis statements about Macbeth.

Thesis idea 1: Macbeth’s character is the example of a tragic hero, someone who rises to the top and then because of his own fatal flaws, dooms himself to failure and death.

Thesis idea 2: Between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, she’s the one who is truly evil, as her ambition pushes Macbeth to go far beyond his own moral judgement.

Thesis idea 3: The themes of Macbeth in the full play include ambition, pride, betrayal, guilt, and the difference between appearances and reality.

Thesis idea 4: The three witches predict Macbeth’s future, but is that future his fate, or did his own free will play a part?

Thesis idea 5: When Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane, a prophecy is fulfilled, but Macbeth’s assumptions have doomed him.

As you move on into the body of your expository essay, each new paragraph should serve as a new point you are making, with the evidence to back your point in the paragraph itself. You should have at least three points in the essay body, and it’s a good idea to start by sitting down to outline the structure of your essay before you even begin writing it.

For example, if you are talking about the points in the play where free will contends with fate, you might talk about Macbeth’s decision to kill Duncan in one paragraph, and the fulfilment of the prediction about Macbeth being killed by someone ‘not born of woman’ in another, and then Macbeth’s own beliefs and assumptions about what Birnam Wood coming to Dunsinane means, and how that itself plays a part in his downfall, in yet another.

As you finish making the points you’ve previously outlined, it’s time to start thinking about a conclusion. To conclude your essay, briefly revisit all the points you’ve made, and then restate your thesis demonstrating what you’ve learned. If the thesis statement at the beginning of the essay is a question, then this should be the answer.

For instance, a conclusion to the thesis above about fate versus free will might look like: “Both fate and Macbeth’s own choices play a part in his rise to kingship and his downfall. As he consistently makes bad choices, the more negative parts of his fate begin to take over. He is truly doomed by his own hand, and the fate that was foretold for him could have been avoided if he’d chosen otherwise.”

Now you have the tools to write a great expository essay about Macbeth, so think about what aspect of the play captures your attention the most, and write about that.

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Ambition & Guilt: Great Essay Introduction for Macbeth

Table of Contents

Do you want to write an essay introduction for Macbeth ? This article covers the play’s major themes to help you write a compelling essay.

Macbeth is a tragedy that tells the story of a Scottish nobleman who becomes obsessed with his own ambition to rule. It also showcases the repercussions of the actions he takes to get there.

The themes of Macbeth, which range from ambition to guilt, help to explain why it is regarded as one of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies. Macbeth’s themes and underlying ideas add layers of significance to this excellent work of literature.

An Overview of the Play “Macbeth”

“Macbeth” is a tragedy by William Shakespeare that shows how the main character, Macbeth, goes from being a war hero to a murderous villain. Beginning as the thane of Glamis, Macbeth progressively advances to the position of King of Scotland.

The higher Macbeth progressed along his path to power, the more corrupt and evil he grew in the process. Macbeth’s character shift drives the whole theme of this play.

How to Write an Essay Introduction for Macbeth

An introduction paragraph is your opportunity to introduce the reader to the play and the main . Some other points to include in your introduction paragraph are the setting, conflict, and protagonist. Make sure you also introduce the protagonist’s main goal and the conflict that is central to the story.

When writing an essay on Macbeth, make the introductory sentence provocative to draw the readers in.

Also, avoid beginning your introduction with a quote, no matter how tempting it may be. If you must quote, consider paraphrasing as an alternative. You’ll get plenty of opportunities to use quotations throughout the essay.

gray eyeglasses placed on a opened book on brown panel

Understanding the Major Themes in Macbeth

Macbeth is a tragedy that dramatizes the psychological effects of unchecked ambition.

Loyalty, guilt, innocence, and fate all center on the notion of ambition and its consequences. The play, Macbeth, has some major themes in the play which are as follows:

Macbeth’s ambition turned out to be his tragic flaw. It lacks morality which ultimately leads to Macbeth’s downfall. Two things fueled his desire. The Three Witches’ prophecy states that not only would he rule Cawdor as thane but also as king. More significantly, the attitude of Macbeth’s wife, who mocks his assertiveness and manliness and actively orchestrates her husband’s deeds.

But Macbeth’s ambition quickly gets out of hand. He believes his authority is in danger to the point where it can only be maintained by killing his perceived enemies. Ambition ultimately leads to the downfall of both Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. He loses the battle and is beheaded by Macduff, while Lady Macbeth kills herself due to insanity.

Macbeth features numerous instances of loyalty. Macbeth is a valiant general at the beginning of the play. King Duncan rewards Macbeth with the title thane of Cawdor after the original thane betrayed him and allied with Norway. However, once Duncan names Malcolm as his heir, Macbeth concludes that to become the king himself, he must assassinate the king.

Shakespeare’s loyalty and treachery dynamic is demonstrated once more as Macbeth betrays Banquo, his noble best friend, out of paranoia. Although they were allies in battle, Macbeth recalls the witches’ prophecy that Banquo’s descendants would one day rule Scotland once he becomes king. Then, Macbeth decides to get him killed.

After discovering the king’s death, Macduff, who suspects Macbeth, goes to England. He teams up with Malcolm there, the son of Duncan, to plot Macbeth’s demise.

Appearance and Reality

Near the close of act I, Macbeth already has plans to kill Duncan. Macbeth then tells him, “False face must hide what the false heart doth know.”

Similar to this, the witches’ statements—such as “fair is foul and foul is fair” subtly manipulate reality and appearance. Their prophecy that no child “of woman born” can defeat Macbeth is proven false. This was when Macduff revealed that he was born by Caesarean section.

Also, the witches assured that Macbeth would not be defeated until “Great Birnam Wood to high Dunsinane Hill Shall come against him.” It was considered unnatural, as a forest would not climb a hill. But in reality, it meant soldiers cutting trees in Birnam Wood to get closer to Dunsinane Hill.

Fate and Free Will

If Macbeth hadn’t followed his violent path, would he have become the king? This question raises the issues of fate and free will. He was appointed thane of Cawdor shortly after the witches predicted that without him doing anything to earn the position.

The witches predict Macbeth’s future and his fate. But Macbeth exercised his own free will in killing Duncan, and he planned the other assassinations after Duncan’s death. The same is true of the other visions the witches conjure for Macbeth. He interprets them as a sign of his invincibility, but they actually foretell his demise.

Macbeth is a tragic play about human lack of control and choice, the seeming inevitability of destiny, and adherence to nature. An introductory essay for Macbeth would analyze that it is one of Shakespeare’s early tragedies driven by ambition, loyalty, guilt, and fate. This article gives a quick overview of Macbeth and the major themes of the play.

Ambition & Guilt: Great Essay Introduction for Macbeth

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Forget Jack Sparrow and Captain Hook. Piracy is far more fearsome

A riveting new history of aquatic ambushes, from the 1600s to today

The capture of the Pirate, Blackbeard, 1718. Painting by J. L. G. Ferris.

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Enemies of All: The Rise and Fall of the Pirates. By Richard Blakemore. The History Press; 336 pages; £25. To be published in America by Pegasus in August as “The Rise and Fall of the Golden Age of Piracy”; $29.95

T HE VERY word “pirate” has a cheery ring. It evokes wooden legs, eyepatches, coins and cutlasses, as well as the likes of Francis Drake, William Kidd, Blackbeard and Henry Morgan. Children’s and adult fantasy is pirate-packed, from Captain Hook in “Peter Pan” to Johnny Depp’s swashbuckling turn as Jack Sparrow in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” films. In Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Pirates of Penzance”, an opera, the obliging pirates release any captives claiming to be orphans.

The reality is more sordid than that , as Richard Blakemore, a lecturer at the University of Reading, argues in a new book. Labels like “buccaneer”, “corsair” or “privateer” sound even more romantic than “pirate”. So those practising piracy used them. This is not just a question of etymology. In the early part of the golden era of piracy—from roughly the late 17th to the early 18th centuries—pirates under respectable labels often had at least the tacit approval of monarchs and states.

Piracy itself is as old as seamanship. But in the author’s telling, it took off after the European discovery of the Americas. The gold, silver and slaves brought back by Portuguese and Spanish ships proved irresistible targets. As well as the lure of booty came the knowledge that, in frequent times of war, pirates were inflicting damage on a sovereign’s opponents. Hence the search for vaguely written official “commissions”, documents that created a veneer of government endorsement for privateering against a state’s declared enemies. Many well-known pirates forswore attacks on ships flying their own national flags.

None of this made their acts of piracy any less bestial. British, Dutch and French pirates, often based outside legally constituted colonies, such as off the Azores or on the island of Tortuga near Haiti, lay in wait for Iberian fleets before attacking them. They would raid newly established forts and settlements on the American mainland. No quarter was given: those sailing on captured ships were tortured to reveal where treasure was; slaves were tossed overboard or sold; any women found were treated as mere spoils of battle.

As the flow of bullion from Latin America started to dry up, pirates looked elsewhere, often following shipping routes. Some sought to ingratiate themselves with colonial authorities: after making a fortune as a privateer, Henry Morgan (who became the namesake of Captain Morgan rum) even served as lieutenant-governor of Jamaica. As its wealth increased, the North American seaboard became a target, with pirates operating out of the Bahamas. Another hunting ground was the Indian Ocean. Mr Blakemore includes a harrowing account of how pirates flying English flags captured a ship bringing Muslim pilgrims back to India. For days the buccaneers pillaged the ship, tortured victims and raped the female passengers, plundering loot worth some 5m rupees (over £500,000, or $635,000, at the time).

As shipping and colonial ambitions shifted, piracy moved too: to the Pacific, to the Barbary Coast of north Africa and indeed to anywhere suitable for plundering. But by the early 18th century, European states had lost patience with these vicious criminals. State-built navies started tackling pirate ships in their lairs.

This coincided with the publication 300 years ago of “A General History of the Pyrates”, a book that sold so well that it had four editions and many translations. Mr Blakemore draws on the book extensively, as did Robert Louis Stevenson for “Treasure Island” and J.M. Barrie for “Peter Pan”. Its most intriguing characters were two female pirate leaders, Anne Bonny and Mary Read, who fooled many of their crews into believing they were men and were later rumoured to have been lovers.

Piracy continues even today. The author closes his story not just with reflections on the inaccuracies of Hollywood’s romantic portrayal of pirates, but also with a look at those still operating, including off Somalia. Nowadays profits come more from ransoming ships and crews than from plunder and rape. But the evil of these aquatic enemies persists all the same. ■

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This article appeared in the Culture section of the print edition under the headline “Not so Jolly Rogers”

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Plays — Macbeth Ambition

Essays on Macbeth Ambition

Hook examples for macbeth ambition essays, anecdotal hook.

Picture a man driven to the brink of madness by his insatiable ambition, a descent into darkness fueled by power. This is the tragic tale of Macbeth.

Question Hook

What happens when ambition blinds one to the consequences of their actions? Macbeth's journey from a valiant warrior to a ruthless tyrant poses this thought-provoking question.

Quotation Hook

"I dare do all that may become a man; who dares do more is none." — Macbeth. Explore the depths of ambition through the words of Shakespeare's iconic character.

Statistical or Factual Hook

Ambition is a central theme in Shakespeare's "Macbeth," a tragedy first performed in 1606. Its exploration of ambition's consequences remains relevant to this day.

Definition Hook

What defines the ambition that leads to greatness or destruction? "Macbeth" serves as a literary mirror reflecting the complexities of this human trait.

Rhetorical Question Hook

Can ambition be both a driving force and a destructive obsession? The story of Macbeth and his unrelenting ambition provides a compelling answer.

Historical Hook

Step into the world of medieval Scotland, where ambition for power and titles was a constant struggle. Explore the historical context that influenced Shakespeare's play.

Contrast Hook

Contrast the noble aspirations of Macbeth at the beginning of the play with the ruthless ambition that consumes him. The transformation is a testament to the play's exploration of ambition.

Narrative Hook

Embark on Macbeth's journey from a loyal subject to a paranoid ruler. His narrative is a cautionary tale of ambition's perilous path.

Shocking Statement Hook

Prepare to witness a descent into madness and moral decay as Macbeth's ambition spirals out of control. The consequences are as shocking as they are tragic.

Lady Macbeth: The Destructive Nature of Unchecked Ambition

Corruption and corruption in macbeth, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

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Lady Macbeth’s Ambition: a Deconstruction

An analysis of ambition in macbeth by william shakespeare, macbeth theme: the role of ambitions in poem, the influence of ambitions in macbeth, let us write you an essay from scratch.

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The Basic Elements of Ambition and Evil in The Story of Macbeth by William Shakespeare

The dangers of ambition in william shakespeare's macbeth, how ambition drives macbeth into downfall in shakespeare’s play, ambition and power in shakespeare’s macbeth, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

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The Effects of Uncontrolled Ambition in Shakespeare's Macbeth

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William Shakespeare

"I have no spur to prick the sides of my intent, but only vaulting ambition, which o’erleaps itself and falls on th’ other." With this phrase, Macbeth makes it clear that he is aware of the power of ambition, which can make people rush and make mistakes. He clearly states his lack of motivation and does not deny the fact that now he is driven only by ambition.

The main theme of Macbeth is the destruction that occurs in a person because of his ambition. Ambition makes the protagonist overstep moral principles, which ultimately makes him even more paranoid and anxious.

1. LOWRANCE, B. (2012). “MODERN ECSTASY”: “MACBETH” AND THE MEANING OF THE POLITICAL. ELH, 79(4), 823–849. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/23356185) 2. Zambrano, A. L. (1974). Throne of Blood": Kurosawa's" Macbeth. Literature/Film Quarterly, 2(3), 262-274. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/43795658) 3. Smidt, K. (1969). Two aspects of ambition in Elizabethan tragedy: Doctor Faustas and Macbeth. English Studies, 50(1-6), 235-248. (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00138386908597335?journalCode=nest20) 4. Carlisle, C. J. (1983). Helen Faucit's Lady Macbeth. Shakespeare Studies, 16, 205. (https://www.proquest.com/openview/f32bc8310f2789df4e15d81ed2db2a4b/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=1819311) 5. McPherson, H. (2000). Masculinity, Femininity, and the Tragic Sublime: Reinventing Lady Macbeth. Studies in Eighteenth-Century Culture, 29(1), 299-333. (https://muse.jhu.edu/pub/1/article/267252/summary) 6. Draper, J. W. (1941). Lady Macbeth. Psychoanalytic Review, 28(4), 479-486. (https://pep-web.org/browse/document/PSAR.028.0479A) 7. Williams, E. W. (1973). In Defense of Lady Macbeth. Shakespeare Quarterly, 24(2), 221-223. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/2868860) 8. Alfar, C. L. (1998). 'Blood will have blood:'Power, Performance, and Lady Macbeth's Gender Trouble. Jx: A Journal in Culture and Criticism, 2(2), 179-207. (https://hcommons.org/deposits/item/mla:931/) 9. Reyes, C., & Kenny, A. (2020). Shakespeare's Violent Women: A Feminist Analysis Of Lady Macbeth. UC Riverside Undergraduate Research Journal, 14(1). (https://escholarship.org/uc/item/43v335x5) 10. Gerwig, G. W. (2002). Lady Macbeth. Shakespearean Criticism, 69. (https://go.gale.com/ps/i.do?id=GALE%7CH1420046125&sid=googleScholar&v=2.1&it=r&linkaccess=abs&issn=08839123&p=LitRC&sw=w&userGroupName=anon%7E194c4eda)

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Luther Vandross, Pop Perfectionist, Didn’t Want You to Hear These Albums

Early records reveal that his sumptuous voice and longing lyrics were there from the start. Out of print since 1977, “This Close to You” will be available Friday.

A black and white image of Luther Vandross singing into a microphone. He wears a black suit studded with sequins.

By Ross Scarano

Nile Rodgers’s very first professional recording session, in the late 1970s, got off to a bumpy start. He wasn’t the only guitarist booked to work with Luther, a group fronted by Luther Vandross, but Rodgers was the youngest, making him an easy target when Paul Riser, the Motown veteran arranging the session, noted something he didn’t like.

“He heard some things that were not correct on the chart,” Rodgers said, and “assumed it was me.” After an expletive-peppered exchange, Vandross stepped in and smoothed out the discord. From then on, Rodgers and Vandross were good friends and collaborators. (Rodgers said Vandross taught him everything he knows about “gang vocals,” the thrilling, unison shout-singing that made zesty singles like Chic’s “ Everybody Dance ” become enduring dance-floor staples.)

The session yielded “This Close to You,” a long out-of-print album originally released in 1977, which will hit streaming services on Friday. Vandross’s short-lived group also cut the self-titled “Luther” (1976), which was rereleased in April. Both albums, made for Cotillion Records, are receiving new attention ahead of the 20th anniversary of his death.

“Luther” includes the only known recording by Vandross of “Everybody Rejoice,” his composition for “The Wiz,” which returned to Broadway this year. JaQuel Knight, the choreographer of the revival, singled out the climactic number as one of the few songs that has a life of its own outside the context of the musical.

“Besides ‘Ease on Down the Road,’ it’s probably the biggest song in the production,” he said, before singing some of the triumphant hook. A documentary about Vandross’s life premiered earlier this year at Sundance and will be released in 2025.

But Vandross, an eight-time Grammy winner who worked his entire career to resolve the tensions between celebrity and privacy, between a desire for crossover pop success and a sublime ability for orchestrating in the background, may have preferred that the records never again saw the light of day.

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A compelling essay hook on the theme of Appearance vs Reality in Macbeth could start with the witches' paradoxical phrase "fair is foul, foul is fair". This quote encapsulates the deceptive nature ...
Macbeth Persuasive Essay Sample
Hook & Thesis: "There's no fate but what you make," says the Terminator, and he was right. Macbeth's fate is his own fault in the end, and he had a dozen different chances to stop, to do what was right, and spare himself from ultimate disgrace and death, but he didn't turn back at any one of them. The body of the essay is the place ...
Fate and Destiny in Shakespeare's Macbeth
The Intricate Interplay of Fate and Destiny in "Macbeth". It would be imprudent to say that Macbeth's fate was wholly determined by his character only. After all, Lady Macbeth acted out as the final push for Macbeth's evil deeds. Macbeth embodies the ambition but he seems to need his wife's challenge, where she depicts him not as a man ...
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Conclusion. In conclusion, Shakespeare's Macbeth is a powerful example of a tragic hero, whose downfall is a result of his fatal flaw of unchecked ambition.
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Macbeth is a tragedy by William Shakespeare based on the true story of Scottish king Macbeth. The play tells us about a Scottish general who heard a prophecy from a trio of witches and decided to bring predictions to fulfillment. This is a drama about the jeopardy of excessive lust for power and betrayal of friends.
Macbeth Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas
66 essay samples found. Macbeth is a tragedy by William Shakespeare, exploring themes of ambition, power, and moral decay through the story of a Scottish general who becomes king through treachery. Essays on "Macbeth" can delve into the character analysis, the use of supernatural elements, and the play's enduring relevance in modern ...
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29 thoughts on " Macbeth Essay Thesis Statements, Titles, and Topics ". Kyla Cortez (she/her/hers) March 24, 2020 at 11:50 am. For my thesis, I would like to explore and analyze Lady Macbeth's character and the development of her character throughout the play. I was thinking of looking into whether her development was largely influenced ...
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Thanks for exploring this SuperSummary Study Guide of "Macbeth" by William Shakespeare. A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
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Here are a few samples of ideas for thesis statements about Macbeth. Thesis idea 1: Macbeth's character is the example of a tragic hero, someone who rises to the top and then because of his own fatal flaws, dooms himself to failure and death. Thesis idea 2: Between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, she's the one who is truly evil, as her ambition ...
Ambition & Guilt: Great Essay Introduction for Macbeth
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That is why teachers often give writing assignments on MacBeth essay topics grade 11. Check out samples of MacBeth essay topics online and use them to create your outline. In turn, use it to make an essay with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Hook Examples for "Macbeth" Essays. The Ambition That Consumes Hook
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Free Macbeth Ambition Essay Examples & Topic Ideas
Your essay on Macbeth's ambition must have a carefully considered structure, a clear message and goal - to ensure you don't miss anything important, review the sample essays below. Notice the writing style, the character analysis, the motifs identified, etc. Hook Examples for Macbeth Ambition Essays. Anecdotal Hook
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Macbeth Essays

Essay: Macbeth – fate and free will

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129 Macbeth Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Macbeth - Free Essay Samples And Topic Ideas

What is the Theme of Macbeth?

An Analysis of Macbeth’s Ambition

The Hunger for Power

Power in Macbeth

Macbeth: a Tragic Hero

Who is more to Blame for the Murder of King Duncan?

The Theme of Fate in Macbeth

Macbeth: the Psychological Effects of Guilt

Drawbacks of Power

Was Macbeth a Sympathetic Character?

Symbolism of Weather in Macbeth

Patriarchy and the Shakespearean Woman

The Tragedy of Macbeth: Themes of the Story

Corruption of Power in Macbeth

Macbeth: Social Structure of the Elizabethan Era

Literary Techniques in Shakespeare’s Macbeth

Lady Macbeth Character Analysis

New Historicism: the Interrelation of Art and Society in Macbeth

Nature’s Influence on Shakespeare’s Macbeth

The Tragedy of MacBeth

Macbeth Character Analysis

The Symbol of Blood in Macbeth

What where Macbeth’s Motives

What is Significant about the Weather in Macbeth?

The Many Different Faces of Macbeth

Brutality and Treachery in Shakespeare’s Macbeth

The Character of Macduff in Macbeth

How Blood Changes Macbeth

Macbeth: the Tragic Hero

Corruption and Violence in Shakespeare’s Macbeth

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How To Write an Essay About Macbeth

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A Summary and Analysis of Macbeth’s ‘Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow’ Speech

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Abir Ghenaiet

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A riveting new history of aquatic ambushes, from the 1600s to today

Culture June 8th 2024

From the June 8th 2024 edition

More from Culture

With Lando Norris to the fore, McLaren are resurgent

A family faces war and revolution in Claire Messud’s ambitious novel

New Zealand is changing its place names

Essays on Macbeth Ambition

Question Hook

Quotation Hook

Statistical or Factual Hook

Definition Hook

Rhetorical Question Hook

Historical Hook