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Macbeth: The Most Noble Characters In William Shakespeare's Play

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 Firstly, the development of Macbeth highlights that the most noble characters can be allured by power and high status. Notably, the desire of high status tempts the noblest characters is demonstrated when Macbeth decides to murder King Duncan to obtain his authority. Macbeth determinedly announces, “ I am settled, and bend up/ Each corporal agent to ties terrible feat”(I.ii.79-80). Macbeth’s quote shows he comes to a conclusion after being convinced by his wife to kill the king, who he is so loyal to. Macbeth is portrayed as a noble war hero, who is loyal to Scotland and the king, upon hearing the witches’ prophecy, he submits himself to his desire to kill and betray the very king he serves. Macbeth’s actions of betraying his king and being …show more content…

Macbeth’s cruel decision clarifies that even highborn men can be corrupted by the temptation of high status. Moreover, the actions of Macbeth convincing the murderers to kill Banquo and his son in order to secure his status underlines that despite how noble a man can be, the temptation of high status will prevail. Macbeth admits, “ And I will put that business in your bosoms,/ Whose execution takes your enemy off/ grapples to the heart and love of us” (III.i.107-109). Macbeth’s quote emphasizes he is using the same method of manipulation as Lady Macbeth to control and convince the murderers that Banquo is their enemy. In order to stay in power, Macbeth the nobleman decides to maliciously lie and convince the murderers to kill Banquo and his son, which highlights the great war hero, Macbeth, is willing to betray his comrades for the sole purpose of securing his position as king. Macbeth’s downfall as a leader underlines that the noblest characters can be consumed by their desire of high status. Concluding, the development of Macbeth indicates the most noble characters can be tempted by high status and can be lead to their

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