Lady Macbeth - A Wife in Support of Her Husband

Lady Macbeth: A Wife in Support of Her Husband

One of the main characters in Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, has been an object of

intense criticism. Although sometimes regarded as cruel and vile, evidence

exists that Shakespeare did not intend for her to be judged so harshly. By

evaluating her character in relation to her actions, her overall relationship

with Macbeth, and her death, we can see that Shakespeare quite possibly wanted

Lady Macbeth to be judged in association with the actions of Macbeth. What

appears to others as ruthlessness and ambition, is really her loyalty and love

for him. Just as Macbeth is ambitious for the throne, so is Lady Macbeth driven

to assist him. All of her actions are done out of devotion and allegiance to

Macbeth.

Throughout the play, the character of Lady Macbeth is developed through her

actions, which reveal her inner cravings. She plays the important role of one

who gives incentive to Macbeth, as well as one who supports him through

difficult times. She is the catalyst who starts Macbeth's thinking. She

possesses an aspect which cares for the future of her husband, and therefore

inspires him to pursue the possibilities. More important than advocating actions

to take the kingship, Lady Macbeth encourages Macbeth to remain strong. When his

weaknesses appear, she remains firm. Because of Lady Macbeth, Macbeth achieves

success. Once set on attaining the crown, Lady Macbeth pushes Macbeth to remain

valiant and assists him in his pursuits. The goals of Macbeth become her

aspirations as well. When Macbeth informs Lady Macbeth of his new found glory,

she immediately begins thinking of the possibilities that lie in the future. Her

initial desire to help Macbeth take the crown becomes clear when she speaks,

"That I may pour my spirits in thine ear,/And chastise with the valor of my

tongue/ All that impedes thee from the golden round/ Which fate and metaphysical

aid doth seem/ To have thee crowned withal" (I.v.26-30). Although it appears

that she is monstrous, she is expressing her care for Macbeth by wanting to

assist him. She continues on to say, "Come, you spirits/ That tend on mortal

thoughts, unsex me here,/ And fill me, from the crown to the toe, top-full/ Of

direst cruelty!" (I.v.40-43). This quote is voiced with the intention to become

strong to help murder Duncan for her husband's grandeur. Upon Macbeth's arrival

to see her, she expresses her plan to kill Duncan, and then utters, "Only look

up clear./ To alter favor ever is to fear./ Leave all the rest to me" (I.