Describe and explain a major change in the character Macbeth.

Essay by princetennis4lifeHigh School, 12th gradeA+, May 2006

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Describe a major change in a character in the text. Explain why this change was important.

The play 'Macbeth' by William Shakespeare is a very tragic one. It is about the downfall of a hero who is led by temptation to mass murder and cruelty. We see how Macbeth's character turns from good to evil, from a "valiant cousin" and "worthy gentleman" to a "bloody butcher" which leads him down the path of self destruction.

In the beginning of the play, Macbeth is known as a "noble" and "valiant" soldier who is well respected and also was involved in a stable and loving marriage. He respected the King and proved to be brave in battles as the Captain described him, "brave Macbeth-well he deserves the name."

Macbeth carried a good conscience until he and Banquo meet the witches and he hears the delightful witches' prophecies. He is frightened but intrigued by the witches' prophecies and he wonders whether to act or see if they come true on their own.

He says in his soliloquy, "Stars hide your fires/Let not light see my black and deep desires." This immediately signifies that he is thinking bad thoughts and his morals start to corrupt/slide. We can see that there is a lot of irony since King Duncan rewards Macbeth for his loyalty and Macbeth almost immediately becomes a bit evil if something gets in the way of what he wants-which is the crown, and to get that he plans to kill Duncan.

Although Macbeth has second thoughts about the murder of Duncan because he believes Duncan has treated him greatly, Macbeth is persuaded by his wife to murder the king in a way as a token of his love for her. Macbeth feels guilty, afraid and ready to back out, but the promise...