Examples Of Heroism In Macbeth

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Albert Camus, a French philosopher and author, once wrote, “Heroism is accessible. Happiness is more difficult.” In Shakespeare’s tragedy, Macbeth, Shakespeare displays three characters that define three distinct definitions of heroism. Shakespeare leaves readers pondering whether the main character, Macbeth, should be viewed as heroic, keeping in mind his courageous actions on the battlefield. Both Banquo and Macduff portray heroism in similar fashions by taking down the one and only Macbeth. Macbeth impresses the readers in the beginning of the play by demonstrating that he’s a humble, honorable servant, but soon fails to impress and ends up proving that he’s actually a ruthless coward. Macbeth is first introduced as an unselfish combatant …show more content…
His performance on the battlefield grants him praise and acknowledgement from the people of Scotland and most important, King Duncan. Shortly after he meets the three “witches” in the forest, he becomes an arrogant, selfish man. Macbeth rushes home to see his wife, rejoicing his appointment of Thane of Cawdor. His desperation for the crown convinces himself that he’s correct in killing Duncan, which proves Macbeth to be an anti-hero. His guilt level rises drastically, causing him to be insane and order men to kill innocent people like Banquo. Although Macbeth has proven himself to be cowardly, he continues to express his determination …show more content…
Though Banquo and Macduff both represent heroic features, the two are provoked by two totally different reasons to become heroic and courageous. Banquo, the humble, loyal servant he is, was never planning on overthrowing Macbeth, yet he still acted with heroism by allowing his son to escape and spread the news about what happened to him. Macduff, on the other hand, was provoked by anger as a result of his family’s murder. It is safe to say that all characters possess heroic features, but utilize them in discrete

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