LADY MACBETH IN THE PLAY AS A WHOLE Flashcards
HOW IS LADY MACBETH PRESENTED IN THE PLAY ASA WHOLE
Ambition and Influence: Lady Macbeth is depicted as ambitious and power-hungry, driving her husband to commit regicide in order to fulfill the witches’ prophecy. She is instrumental in convincing Macbeth to take action, using her persuasive abilities to manipulate him into committing murder. Shakespeare portrays Lady Macbeth as a driving force behind Macbeth’s ascent to power, highlighting her ambition and influence over her husband.
Guilt and Remorse: Despite her outward bravado and determination, Lady Macbeth is plagued by guilt and remorse as the consequences of her actions unfold. She experiences hallucinations and sleepwalking episodes, where she is tormented by the blood on her hands. Shakespeare illustrates Lady Macbeth’s psychological unraveling as she grapples with the moral implications of her involvement in Duncan’s murder.
Gender Roles and Ambition: Lady Macbeth challenges traditional gender roles and expectations, defying societal norms by actively participating in her husband’s plot to seize power. Her ambition and ruthlessness are atypical for a woman of her time, highlighting the complexity of her character and the extent of her desire for power.
Isolation and Descent into Madness: Like Macbeth, Lady Macbeth becomes increasingly isolated as the play progresses, alienating herself from others as she grapples with guilt and paranoia. Her descent into madness mirrors Macbeth’s own psychological unraveling, underscoring the destructive effects of their ambition and moral corruption.
