Themes in Macbeth - 742 Words

Within Shakespeare s famous Macbeth there are many different themes that make the play the captivating masterpiece that it is. The role of the supernatural is a very important element of Shakespeare s Macbeth. Just as important, the theme of masculinity is very dominant. Both themes contribute to the play s unique and powerful nature, overall creating a very effective storyline, strong characters, and unexpected twists and turns throughout. In the time of William Shakespeare there was a strong belief in the existence of supernatural forces. Thus, the supernatural is a very prominent theme within many of Shakespeare s plays. In Macbeth this theme is an indispensable part of the structure of the plot, providing a†¦show more content†¦He speaks of a half-world [where] nature seems dead, and wicked dreams abuse the curtained sleep, proclaiming that witchcraft celebrates, showing Macbeth s imaginings of evil at work. Enabling a very mystery-filled play, the supernatural aspect of Shakespeare s Macbeth is very dominant. Another very dominant theme within Macbeth is that of masculinity. The characters within the play tend to associate masculinity with aggression, bravery, and vengeance, as well as showing a lack of emotion. Whenever manhood is the topic of any conversation between characters, violence is always quick to follow. This is proven at multiple points throughout the duration of the play; through Macbeth questioning the manhood of the murderers he hires to ensure the death of Banquo, through Lady Macbeth s provoking Macbeth to murder the King by doubting his manhood and through Malcolm telling Macduff in a very manly fashion that he must seek revenge for his family s death. In the beginning of the play where Lady Macbeth proclaims, when you durst do it, then you are a man, she is implying that Macbeth could kill Duncan and become the King, if only he were masculine. Masculinity is not only to be associated with just the men in the play, as it is an attribute seen within many of the women. Particularly in Lady Macbeth, masculinity is seen through her overpowering, cold, and violent nature. In Act One Lady Macbeth indicates her desire to replace herShow MoreRelatedMacbeth Themes899 Words   |  4 Pages â€Å"What are the major themes in Macbeth† By Connor Maguire William Shakespeare’s Macbeth a play complete with many themes and viewpoints. The themes are exhibited by the main characters of the play, notably antagonist Macbeth. Themes seen in the play include ambition, where is is portrayed as both dangerous and unnatural. However, it does exist in both good and evil forms in the play. Another theme seen is whether Macbeths actions in the play are a result of fate, or free will. Although outsideRead MoreMacbeth Themes991 Words   |  4 Pagesimportant themes in Macbeth involves the witches statement in Act 1, Scene1 that fair is foul and foul is fair. (Act 1, Scene 1, Line 10) This phrase aptly describes the macabre status quo within the character Macbeth and without. When Macbeth and Banquo first see the weird sisters, Banquo is horrified by their hideous appearances. Conversely, Macbeth immediately began to converse with these universally known evil creatures. After hearing their prophecies, one can say that Macbeth consideredRea d MoreThe Theme of Macbeth1413 Words   |  6 PagesThe play Macbeth written by William Shakespeare in the beginning of the 17th century, deals with a man#8217;s turn from the king#8217;s most glorious, brave and courageous general into a traitor and murderer influenced by evil forces. In the following I am going to describe the play briefly and explain the theme of it. Furthermore I will discuss Macbeth#8217;s character and his internal conflict. 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