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How Does Shakespeare Present The Corruption Of Power In Macbeth

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Corruption: the process by which something once innocent and pure, turns dark and cruel. Power: the ability to do as one pleases, and direct others as they wish. Together, these two make a sinister and destructive pair. William Shakespeare explores the corruption of someone that follows the gain of undeserved power. Both Macbeth, and his wife, Lady Macbeth, demonstrate the corruption that shadows their crowns. Macbeth, a play by William Shakespeare, illustrates the corruption of soul and mind due to an immense greed for power. Macbeth’s morals align with those of a noble Thane. He proves his devoted loyalty to the country of Scotland, and his beloved King, Duncan. But, once the witches enlighten him of his chance to be crowned king, he throws aside all …show more content…

Macbeth is consciously aware of the pure evil he has turned to. When Young Siward unknowingly meets Macbeth, he questions what his name is, believing nothing he could say would be worse than the name of Satan. Macbeth takes this insult to heart, and decides to prove him wrong: “My name’s Macbeth” (5.7.8). Macbeth decides to prove the child wrong solely to show the true darkness of his soul. This decision establishes the corruption of his soul. He has done irreversible damage to himself by the actions he has taken to get to the throne. Macbeth has committed murder and treason all to fulfil a greedy wish. His acknowledgement of this corruption further harbours it. The pride he holds of his dark and corrupted soul is truly inhuman, making him all the more similar to the Devil. Had Macbeth never fought for the crown, his soul would still hold the same innocence it did while he was a Thane. Additionally, the corruption of Macbeth’s mind stems from his strong desire to keep the crown. His internal instincts become severely altered, causing this corruption. Once Macbeth learns about Macduff’s fleeing to England, he decides now and

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