Theme Of Disorder In Macbeth

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Disorder and order are the two foundation qualities of the Elizabethan’s beliefs. These beliefs were organized in a chain called the Great Chain of Being in which everything had a place in life and if anything diverted from their place or tried to move ranks catastrophe ensued. In the play the creation of disorder and resolution of order are two critical themes upon which the play revolves. The various types of disorder—political, spiritual, natural, and mental disorder—are a direct reflection of the disruption in the universal order and all stem from the first great crime Macbeth committed: the regicide of Duncan and usurping of the throne. The act of Macbeth trying to achieve his ambition of becoming King, which is not his rank in the …show more content…
In the beginning of the play, under Duncan’s rule, Scotland was a stable, orderly, and a prosperous country, and even a bloody soldier’s “words” and “wounds … smack of [this] honour” (1.2.47.48). The bloody soldier provides reason to believe that Scotland is in order under Duncan’s rule with people who will fight for Scotland with dignity. Moreover, this use of blood imagery suggests patriotism and loyalty, which dramatically contrasts Macbeth’ rule that soon follows. It also suggests that Duncan is a caring King whom is virtuous, kind, and overall good. Under “the yoke” of Macbeth’s tyranny and disruption of the Great Chain of Being, Scotland “weeps [and] bleeds” as “each new day a gash is added to her wounds” (4.3.43-45). The unlawful ascension of Macbeth to the throne, and his rule over Scotland creates catastrophic results. His impulsive actions have forced many people to flee as they need “meat” for their tables, “sleep to [their] night”, and social gatherings free from “bloody knives” (3.6.33-37). Furthermore, Scotland's disorder has caught the attention of Edward the Confessor whom is needed to free them from their oppression. The restoration of order in Scotland comes about by the beheading of the “usurper’s cursed head” which allows the “time [to be] free” (5.9.25-26). The death of Macbeth and crowning of Malcolm restores order throughout Scotland as the kingship falls upon it’s rightful heir, restoring the Great Chain of Being. Malcolm’s speech echoes his father’s reign and proves Malcolm will be a good king like his father. Macbeth’s usurping of the throne creates political disorder throughout Scotland until his reign is ended by his
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