Ambition in Macbeth Flashcards
How does Macbeth first react to the witches’ prophecy about becoming king?
Macbeth is both intrigued and fearful, saying, “Why do I yield to that suggestion whose horrid image doth unfix my hair?” (Act 1, Scene 3). This shows that his ambition is awakened but also unsettles him.
How does Macbeth’s ambition influence his decision to kill Duncan?
Though he initially hesitates, his “vaulting ambition” (Act 1, Scene 7) pushes him to commit regicide. He recognizes that ambition is his only motivation but chooses to act on it anyway.
How does Macbeth’s ambition change after he becomes king?
Instead of being satisfied, Macbeth becomes paranoid and ruthless, saying, “To be thus is nothing, but to be safely thus.” (Act 3, Scene 1). His ambition drives him to kill Banquo and later Macduff’s family to secure his power.
How do the witches fuel Macbeth’s ambition
The witches’ second set of prophecies (Act 4, Scene 1) give Macbeth a false sense of invincibility, leading him to believe “none of woman born shall harm Macbeth.” This overconfidence makes him reckless.
How does ambition contribute to Macbeth’s downfall?
Macbeth’s relentless ambition blinds him to danger. His belief in the witches’ prophecies leads to his defeat, as he realizes too late that he has been tricked “juggling fiends” (Act 5, Scene 8).
