Is Macbeth a Monster or a Victim?

  ‘Macbeth’ is a tragedy by William Shakespeare. It was written in the 1600’s but is set in the 11th century. The play is about a Scottish thane called Macbeth who is told that he will become king by a trio of witches. Encouraged by his wife, he proceeds to murder the present king and, after being crowned, commits many other murders, including that of his friend Banquo. He is finally slain by Macduff, the Thane of Fife.

  There are two possible interpretations of the character of Macbeth. He could be construed as a monster or a victim. Is he a monster because of the many murders he committed or is he a victim because of the powerful influence that ‘forced’ him to perpetrate these crimes? In this essay I will weigh up the evidence from both sides of the argument and finally reach my own conclusion.

  I will begin by examining the good side of Macbeth and present the arguments in his defence.

  However bad he becomes as the play unfolds, Macbeth starts out at least as a reasonable, popular, patriotic and highly respected thane. One of the first times we hear his name mentioned is in the quote:

“For brave Macbeth, – well he deserves that name.”

Act 1: Sc 2

  This line is spoken by the captain of the Scottish Army, which tells us that Macbeth was very noble and brave in the battle against “The merciless Macdonald.” Act 1: Sc 2 This in turn shows us that the other soldiers and the captain see Macbeth as a very talented soldier who is willing to risk his life for the king.

  Another quote that proves my point about who Macbeth is at the start of the play comes from King Duncan himself and runs as follows:

“O valiant cousin, worthy gentleman.”

Act 1: Sc 2

  This is evidence that shows that even the king thinks highly of the Thane of Glamis and, just to prove his respect, he appoints him the new Thane of Cawdor, after the execution of the previous one for treason (a sign perhaps?).

“No more the Thane of Cawdor shall deceive…

with his former title greet Macbeth.”

Duncan - Act 1: Sc 2

  These quotes prove what I have already mentioned – that at the beginning of the play Macbeth is highly respected by such people as the captain of the Scottish Army and even the king. He is brave, patriotic and courageous. However, his attitude changes dramatically as the play progresses…

  Macbeth’s life begins to take a turn for the worst when he meets the three witches or, as he calls them, the three “black and midnight hags.” Act 4: Sc 1

  Their first meeting is on the Heath, after the battle. Banquo is present and it is then that they make their predictions; that Macbeth will be king and that Banquo’s sons will also be kings. It is made very clear that the witches are evil characters and this is done in many ways.

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  Firstly, the stage directions declare that there is thunder when the witches enter. This suggests sinister activity. Secondly, before Macbeth arrives the witches are talking amongst themselves about what they have been up to since their last meeting. These are acts that only wicked beings would commit. Two quotes that show the nature of their ‘amusing’ activities are:

“Killing swine.”

Act 1: Sc 3

“Here I have a pilot’s thumb,

Wrecked as homeward he did come.”

Act 1: Sc 3

  Thirdly, the witches are very ugly. This is made clear by the quote:

“What are these…

That look ...

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