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Essay / Example of Pride in Macbeth
Shakespeare's Macbeth is a classic story about ambition, power, and the consequences of unchecked pride. The character of Macbeth, a nobleman consumed by his desire for power, is an excellent example of hubris in literature. Throughout the play, Macbeth's pride leads to his downfall, as he becomes increasingly blinded by his own ambition and ultimately meets a tragic end. This essay will explore the different instances of pride in Macbeth, analyzing how his pride and arrogance ultimately led to his demise. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay In the early scenes of the play, Macbeth is portrayed as a brave and loyal soldier, well respected by King Duncan and his peers. However, as the witches' prophecies ignite his ambition, Macbeth's pride begins to surface. His initial reluctance to pursue the throne is quickly overshadowed by his overwhelming desire for power. This change in Macbeth's character sets the stage for the tragic events that unfold throughout the play. One of the most striking examples of Macbeth's hubris is his reaction to the witches' prophecies. When he is told that he will become king of Scotland, Macbeth's ambition immediately ignites and he becomes consumed by the idea of his own greatness. This feeling of invincibility leads him to believe that he is beyond the reach of fate, and he becomes increasingly reckless in his quest for power. This arrogance ultimately leads to his downfall, as he underestimates the consequences of his actions and becomes blind to the moral implications of his choices. Additionally, Macbeth's pride is evident in his treatment of those around him. As he becomes more entrenched in his quest for power, he becomes increasingly ruthless and callous, willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals. His disregard for the lives of others is a clear indicator of his exaggerated sense of self-importance, as he is willing to sacrifice anyone who gets in his way. This pride ends up isolating Macbeth from those who were once close to him, leading to his ultimate demise. In addition to his treatment of others, Macbeth's pride is also evident in his belief that he can outwit fate. Despite the witches' warnings and the apparitions that appear to him, Macbeth remains convinced that he is master of his destiny. This feeling of pride and arrogance blinds him to the reality of his situation, leading him to make increasingly reckless decisions that ultimately seal his fate. In conclusion, Macbeth's tragic fall is the result of his uncontrolled pride. Throughout the play, his pride and arrogance lead him to make increasingly reckless decisions, ultimately leading to his demise. This serves as a warning against the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of hubris. By examining the different instances of pride in Macbeth, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of human nature and the tragic consequences of pride and arrogance. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. .Get a Custom EssayWorks CitedShakespeare, William. Macbeth. Edited by AR Braunmuller, The New Cambridge Shakespeare, Cambridge University Press, 1997.