Macbeth Tragic Hero Essay

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The Tragedy of Macbeth is a play written by playwright William Shakespeare that tells the tale of a Scottish Thane and his wife. Their dark ambition causes them to commit many crime which eventually leads to their downfall. All tragedies commence with a tragic hero such as this one, who start out in a high place in society, but because of his tragic flaw, makes mistakes which lead to his downfall which is eventually followed by death. The hero meets his death with honor and dignity, only after he recognizes the mistake he made and regrets his actions. Because of Macbeth’s tragic flaw and downfall, Macbeth is a tragic hero. In the beginning Macbeth holds a high place in society like all tragic heroes. Macbeth has been victorious in several battles. Not only did Macbeth defeat the rebellious Macdonwald, but he also conquered the armies of the King of Norway and the Scottish traitor, the Thane of Cawdor. Duncan orders the Thane of Cawdor’s execution and announces that Macbeth will receive the traitors title as said in the tragedy, “No more that Thane of Cawdor shall deceive our bosom interest. Go, pronounce his present death, and with his former title greet Macbeth.” (I iii 66-68) Because of Macbeth’s great accomplishments, he holds a high place in society. Macbeth is the honored with the title: Thane of Cawdor.…show more content…
Macbeth’s dark ambition causes him to desire power. In the quote, “Stars, hide your fires, let not light see my black and deep desires.” (I iv 52-53) Macbeth is filled with dark ambition after hearing the witch's prophecy. It is also stated in the quote, “ I have no spur to prick the sides of my intent, which o’erleaps itself and falls on th’other.” (I vii 25-27) Macbeth’s ambition and desire for power cause him to make several mistakes thus making this his tragic flaw. The only thing motivating him is ambition, which causes people to push ahead themselves toward

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