The Power Of Power In Macbeth

Once in power, many individuals find themselves consumed by an overwhelming thirst to control others. When someone possesses control and authority over others, they become infected with evil and wicked behaviours which begin to dominate and destroy their minds. Like Hitler, Mussolini, and Saddam Hussein who all desired absolute power, Macbeth too was an example of this self destructing demeanour. Their “vaulting ambition” led to many unfortunate incidents which resulted in the death of innocent lives. People who believe that absolute power doesn’t corrupt absolutely are very mislead. Similarly to Macbeth, Hitler, Mussolini, and Saddam Hussein throughout time have also become corrupt absolutely. Power is evil unless used appropriately.

Hitler proves to be very similar to

He gained position as leader and used his power to his advantage. He may not have been crowned thane of Italy, but he tried to regain Italy for the prestige and power through extreme military measures. He became allies with Hitler in 1936-1939 during the Spanish Civil War. He attempted conquering the world by joining forces with Germany in World War II, but failed to do so. On the same note, Macbeth also made the biggest mistake by committing the most horrid crime of all; he had Macduff’s family slaughtered. This crime was so horrendous because unlike Macbeth’s prior murders, this one had no other purpose but to quench Macbeth’s hatred of his rival Macduff. His hunger for power allows his mental deterioration to become visible and he begins to believe that the only way to maintain his reign is through the execution of innocent lives. “And take a bond of fate: thou shalt not live” (Act IV, Scene I, 65). The “worthy” Macbeth has abandoned his moral sense and what is worse is that others have suffered because of his inner conflicts. This highlights the corruption of power.