Compare the characters of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in Act 2.

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Compare the characters of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in Act 2.

In act 2 scene 1, Macbeth seems to be having doubts to his actions on the murder of King Duncan. When he is left alone, he imagines a dagger in front of him, which is guiding him towards the goal he seeks of killing Duncan to gain his ambition to ascend to the throne. This proves that he wants to do it, that he’s greedy and desperate to do it but having doubts about whether he has the courage. Initially he experiences horror at he reality of which he is contemplating but this gives away to resolution. He determines, however, to proceed forward and kill Duncan. In scene 2“ Lady Macbeth's Mood is exultant and bold and she boasts of her success at drugging the guards which proves she is boastful. It seems as if Lady Macbeth is Macbeth’s key human agent, the one he trusts and loves and who ensures his temptation is thorough and complete.

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Lady Macbeth has an initial overpowering presence as does her husband, however, she is not the actual heroine or hero herself. She seems very dominant in this act too. Her actions seem to be influenced by her uncompromising desire for her husband to ascend to the throne. This links the characters in their desire for Macbeth’s power once he has been made king. We understand that Macbeth has ” deep desires” but this seems tame compared with Lady Macbeth’s unquenchable aspirations. Further we see in her actions a cool, self-possession. When Macbeth falters, she is there and has the courage ...

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