Theme 2 in Macbeth- Ambition Flashcards
How is Macbeth a dramatic representation of the devastating psychological consquences of pursuing ones ambition?
his morality is corrupted and Macbeth loses his nobility and becomes intensely violent.
Historical context?
social hierarchy and a rigid class system was in play this explains why when he was told he was going to be thane of cawdor he took it so seriously.
‘black and deep desire’
explores the titular characters quest to fufil his ambition
what is the hamartia?
all protagonists have a tragic or fatal flaw, his fatal flaw is his insatiable ambition,
‘a dagger of the mind, a false creation’ - his ambition has caused him mental distress near insanity
How does Macbeth compare his current situation to horse riding?
‘vaulting ambition’
ambition is the metaphorical spur, a horse rider may overestimate their ability when trying to clear an obstacle and falling down
After Duncans death his sons are blamed for it, ‘against nature still! thriftless ambition’
they are going against the natural order by killing their father, the audience is aware it was macbeth who killed him but it was so out of character no one suspected him to kill someone he was indebted to.
How does Lady Macbeth show ambition?
she relentlessly criticizes Macbeths lack of masculinity, ‘it is too full o’ th’ milk of human kindness’ - her defining trait is ambition, she is the ultimate catalyst, you can only act on your ambition if you remove your moral compass, she doubts macbeths ability to to this
