How does Shakespeare present the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth Dramatically?

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How does Shakespeare present the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth Dramatically?

Macbeth’s strive for power affects every aspect of his life, and eventually leads to his own death. Many different factors play a role in deciding his ill-fated future.

The witches and their prophecies are the first major influence on Macbeth’s actions. Macbeth, Thane of Glamis is fairly happy with his position, until the three witches tell him, "hail to thee, Thane of Cawdor, thou shalt be King hereafter." After hearing this, Macbeth and Banquo, his loyal friend, find out that King Duncan has named Macbeth "Thane of Cawdor." They contemplate about how the rest of the prophecy will come true. The witches also tell them that Banquo's son would one day be King. Macbeth then writes a letter to Lady Macbeth explaining what has happened.

Macbeth realises that for him to in fact become King, he will have to defeat recently named heir to the throne, Malcolm, the King’s son, and also prevent Banqou´s son from becoming king. Macbeth returns home and he and his wife must play host to the King. Lady Macbeth begins to contemplate what "impedes thee from the golden round". She desperately wants Macbeth to be King. Lady Macbeth obviously has a very different reaction to Macbeth's.

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Lady Macbeth requests that the, "sprits that tend on mortal thoughts," to unsex her, and fill her with the "direst cruelty…" She approaches Macbeth with her intent to kill King Duncan. Macbeth, although wanting the prophecy to come true, and become king, lacks the enthusiasm of his wife, to commit the murder of Duncan. Lady Macbeth urges Macbeth to act on his desires or he will think of himself as a coward. Maybe the dishonour that being a coward would bring is too great a burden for “brave Macbeth”.

King Duncan is invited to Macbeth’s castle, and it is there ...

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