How Is Lady Macbeth Unprotected

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Macduff and Macbeth both left their wives unprotected and unattended. Lady Macbeth was ill, and Macbeth learned of her health only through reports. When he finally asked about her, he said “How is your patient, doctor?” (5.3.37). Referring to her as a "patient," rather than using a more affectionate term to express his concern for her health, he did not accompany her and stayed focused on his power, rather than his wife's well-being. This shows that Lady Macbeth was never his priority, and he has little to no love for her. Similarly, Macduff left his wife and children behind to seek help. He overlooked the possible danger they might face, thus leaving them unprotected. Macduff was more attentive and affectionate towards his family, while Macbeth …show more content…

In the dialogue between Ross and Macduff’s wife, she exclaims “Wisdom? To leave his wife, to leave his babes” (4.2.6), signifying her disbelief at his decision to leave them without ensuring their safety. This instance also implies that Macduff's absence causes a shift in the family dynamic, as his potential role as protector and provider is suddenly disrupted. Without his presence, the household is left vulnerable, prompting Lady Macduff to express her frustrations and concerns, which she later expresses in her conversation with her son by stating “Sirrah, your father’s dead. And what will you do now? How will you live?” which he then replied to “As birds do, mother.” (4.2.32) The son’s response made the scene more lighthearted and humorous despite the seriousness of the situation. These interactions between Lady MacDuff and her son accentuate the familial bond of the Macduff family depicting the love and care that they have for one another because although his absence causes a void, his wife expresses that through anger and disappointment as she also tries to convince her son that Macduff was dead to which he reacted to with humor and

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