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Macbeth - Macbeth Character Study

Thesis: Macbeth's changing character over the course of the play can be seen in his roles a general, husband and a king.

I. General
A. Early in the play he is brave
1. Captain reports
2. Duncan conversation
B. Late in the play he is ineffective
1. Fearful
2. Cornered
II. Husband
A. Initially close to wife
1. Confides in her via letter
2. Has pet name
B. Later becomes distant/cold
1. Tells doctor to cure Lady Macbeth
2. Feels resignation, not anguish at her death
III. King
A. At first is powerful
1. Malcolm and Donaldbain free Scotland
2. He succeeds in killing Banquo
B. At end is powerless
1. Fleance escapes
2. Malcolm conquers Scotland





The story of Macbeth is one of power at the expense of everything. The main character, Macbeth starts out greatly admired with strong character. As the play progresses, Macbeth's personality and actions become more deceitful leading to his destruction. Macbeth's changing character over the course of the play can be seen in his roles a general, husband and a king.

First, Macbeth's changing character is evident in his role as a general. As the play begins, he is a brave general, well respected by his peers. The captain returning from battle reports of this saying, "But all's too weak; for brave Macbeth (he deserves that name)" (1.2. 17-18) Duncan later confers his title as king of Scotland, claiming, "No more that thane of Cawdor shall deceive our bosom interest. Go, pronounce his present death, and with his former title, greet Macbeth". (1.3.73-76) These people trust in his strength and depend on him. However, as the play continues, Macbeth becomes ineffective as a general. He becomes fearful at the sight of Banquo's ghost. He pretends to appear brave by saying, "Thou canst say I did it. Never shake thy gory locks at me," (3.4.61-62) Macbeth is showing paranoia, a truly fearless General would not have fearful visions of those they have murdered. Macbeth's sinful deeds not only lead him to be fearful...