Macbeth by William Shakespeare :: Papers

Macbeth by William Shakespeare Recently in class we have read and studied one of Shakespeare's most famous plays: Macbeth. I found the language a bit difficult to understand and rather archaic but the themes as relevant as they were when the play was written and set. The play was an intriguing one. Whilst studying the play we were focusing on the main character whom the play was based upon and named after, Macbeth. Having finished the play, I felt a sense of pride and achievement that I have read a Shakespearean play. In this evaluation I wish to consider the accuracy of Malcolm's comment that Macbeth died a "butcher" Macbeth towards the end of the play appeared extremely cold and heartless yet at the beginning was a hero who did have good qualities which is why it was such a tragedy that he turned evil. Macbeth is a very complex character and Shakespeare began by highlighting his good points, portraying him as a decent person thus making us care what happens to him. Macbeth being hailed a hero,(in Act1Sc2) was a well-deserved title. He was a brave and gallant soldier, ironically fighting against traitorous behaviour to the king. We are told in gory detail that he "unseamed" one traitor by ripping him apart with his sword from his navel to his mouth showing his military capability Described as "Belona's bridegroom" by Rosse, Macbeth was being compared with Mars, the Roman God of War a compliment by any standard. This reinforces the bravery and ability of Macbeth and showed that in the context of his times, Macbeth was a first class soldier and admired by many. In fact, to the bitter end Macbeth remains a brave character fighting against all odds when he himself has become the traitor. Another virtue of Macbeth's is that he is held in high regard by the king. On several occasions, King Duncan praises Macbeth going as far as saying on one occasion, " we love him highly". King Duncan obviously held a lot of trust in Macbeth even visiting his castle and