Macbeth's Character Development and Historical Context

This page explores how others perceive Macbeth, his personality traits, and the historical context of the play. It provides a deeper understanding of Macbeth's character arc and the societal beliefs that influence the narrative.

Macbeth's Initial Perception: At the beginning of the play, Macbeth is viewed as noble, worthy, and a polite gentleman. He is described as "Brave Macbeth" and "Valiant cousin," emphasizing his status as a respected warrior. This initial portrayal sets the stage for his dramatic fall from grace.

Highlight: The stark contrast between how Macbeth is perceived at the beginning and end of the play underscores the theme of appearance versus reality.

Macbeth's Personality: Macbeth is characterized by his ambition and his strong sense of masculinity. His statement, "I dare do all that may become a man" (Act 1, Scene 7), reveals his adherence to stereotypical heroic ideals. However, his ambition often leads him to temptation, particularly in his desire for the throne.

Quote: "I dare do all that may become a man"

This quote encapsulates Macbeth's initial view of masculinity and honor, which becomes twisted as the play progresses.

Guilt and Violence: While Macbeth experiences guilt when planning Duncan's murder, these feelings intensify after the act. His violent nature, initially confined to the battlefield, begins to manifest in his everyday life as the play progresses.

Lady Macbeth's Influence: Lady Macbeth describes Macbeth as kind and sympathetic, traits she fears will prevent him from achieving their ambitions. Her manipulation plays a crucial role in Macbeth's decision to commit regicide.

Definition: Regicide - The act of killing a king, which Macbeth commits against Duncan.

Historical Context: The play was written during the reign of King James I, who had a particular interest in witchcraft. Shakespeare incorporated elements of witchcraft and the supernatural to appeal to the king's interests.

Highlight: King James I's personal history, including the assassination of his father and execution of his mother, may have influenced Shakespeare's portrayal of regicide and its consequences.

Jacobean Beliefs: Witchcraft was a common fear in Jacobean times, and King James I even wrote a book called 'Daemonologie' on the subject. The belief that witchcraft was a power of Satan influenced the portrayal of the witches in "Macbeth."

The Great Chain of Being: This ideological concept, originating from ancient Greek philosophers, was prevalent during Shakespeare's time. It provided a hierarchical structure to the universe, which Macbeth's actions disrupt.

Definition: The Great Chain of Being - A hierarchical structure of all matter and life, believed to have been decreed by God.

Example: Macbeth's killing of Duncan, his rightful king, violates the Great Chain of Being, contributing to the sense of disorder in the play.