Macbeth Play Analysis

The Character and Role of Macbeth in William Shakespeare's Play

Shakespeare found his ideas for his plays in historical sources.Istead of just retelling the story Shakespeare took the most interesting parts and then added new material just like in macbeth . It is thought that Shakespeare wrote Macbeth for James 1 , king of both Englandand Scotlandat the time . He have been interested in witchcraft as he though his own life had been threatened by witches. During his raine he had many women put to death on charges of witchcraft . Shakespeare used holinshed's chronicles as his source .He made a number of alterations in this version of Macbeth to please James

In William Shakespeare's version of Macbeth

There are many themes used to create atmosphere of the play as the light is a sign of good happening and darkness is sign of evil. Many evil scenes are taken in deseted areas to create an atmosphere for the audience. Macbeth first words in the book are an echo of the witches. As they exit Shakespeare adds to the mystery and sinister element of their characters with the paradox.

"So foul and fair a day I have not seen".

The withes speak in a language recognizably different to that spoken today, and is organized in such a way as to create the effect of chanting, which is often associated with witchcraft. The words used by the witches suggest that their craft will be ongoing throughout the play

The consequences of this scene will cost Banquo his life.

"Thou shalt get kings, though thou be none, so hail Macbeth and Banquo".

The witches are a common factor within the play and could be blamed for the tragedy of Macbeth

When Macbeth sends his wife the letter telling of the witches prophesies she becomes excited at the thought of being queen but

Macbeth puts power into the hands of Lady Macbeth by letting her arrange Duncan's murder. He accepts the plans and is now determined to win the throne. Macbeth is eager to become king and wishes to reach his goals by any means possible even if this means letting others influence him. If Macbeth truly did not want to commit the deed he could have refused these arrangements. The witches warn, predict and tempt, but they do not control Macbeth

In act 2 Macbeth sees a dagger leading him towards Duncan's chamber

"Is this a dagger which I see before me".

He hesitates about the murder of Duncanonly because he fears the earthly consequences not because it would be sinful. But finally He goes through with the murder but brings the dagger out with him.

Lady Macbeth returns the daggers as Macbeth feels guilty and cannot return them to the chambers. They then try to cover up the murder

"Get on your nightgown lest occasion call us".

A few hours later Macbeth and Lady Macbeth act shocked and amazed when told the news of his death.

Macbeth announces he killed the guard for his love for fair