Macduff's Ambition

Words: 767
Pages: 4

Macbeth Essay

William Shakespeare’s Macbeth is an example of overwhelming ambition in a ruler, which negatively impacts the society that he rules. The lack of trust that afflicts the land dictated by Macbeth creates a society without peace. The death of the sanctified king, left Scotland’s noblemen and their families in danger. Some noblemen fled whereas others had to show fake loyalty to the new tyrant.

Macduff leaves his family and kingdom because he wants to return peace to Scotland. However, Macduff’s departure leaves his wife, children, and kingdom in danger. The threat explains that the society of the land ruled by Macbeth lacks peace, as the noblemen's’ families are not safe. Because of the society that Macbeth created, when Ross
…show more content…
I am not to you known,
Though in your state of honor I am perfect.
I doubt some danger does approach you nearly.
If you will take a homely man’s advice,
Be not found here. Hence with your little ones.
To fright you thus methinks I am too savage;
To do worse to you were fell cruelty,
Which is too nigh your person. Heaven preserve you!
I dare abide no longer. (4, 2, 63-70)

When messenger approaches Lady Macduff after Macduff has fled to England, he warns her that danger may be approaching. This warning is evidence that the lack of presence of Macduff, has left his family in jeopardy. Macbeth cannot be trusted as he is willing to kill anyone that he believes an obstacle.

After Duncan’s death, the growing suspicion upon Macbeth in Banquo causes him to distrust his friend, Macbeth. At the beginning of the play, the captain portrays Macbeth and Banquo as loyal and brave noblemen who bear a strong friendship as they fought hand in hand against Norway.

Thou hast it now: king, Cawdor, Glamis, all,
As the weird women promised, and I fear
Thou played’st most foully for ’t. Yet it was said
It should not stand in thy posterity,
But that myself should be the root and father
Of many kings. If there come truth from
…show more content…
The Lord believes that Macduff's departure to England will return food to their tables, and end their sleepless nights. Therefore, the society controlled by Macbeth is suffering as Scotland’s nobility feels the lacking presence of safety. Lennox’s hope lies in Macduff to return with England’s army, and Siward to defeat Macbeth and protect suffering Scotland because Macbeth is the cause of the suffering society. Lennox is pleased to hear that this task will keep Macduff away from Scotland because he will not have to show fake loyalty and trust in a tyrant. Lennox and the Lord are both in Scotland however their hopes rest in Macduff as he is the rightful heir of Scotland who fled in fear of