How Does Shakespeare Show Loyalty In Macbeth

Friendship is inferred to connect individuals who have a respected bond. However, it may be failed upon if loyalty is broken from someone who was once trusted. This theme can be clearly seen in Act 1, Scene 4, lines 13-30 of Macbeth by William Shakespeare, resembling the relationship King Duncan has with Thane Macbeth before Duncan is found murdered, enhancing Macbeth’s true colors. Shakespeare introduces Act 1 of his play by building a positive relationship between Duncan and Macbeth, as Duncan was deciding who to crown as the next Thane of Cawdor. During this scene, Macbeth expresses how gracious he is to serve the King, showing his loyal characteristics. Macbeth states, “‘The service and loyalty I owe in doing it pays itself. Your Highness’ part is …show more content…
Throughout Act 1, Shakespeare truly shows how Macbeth it cemented, or initiates his true colors, all from learning that Duncan wants Malcolm to be the next Prince of Cumberland. In order for Duncan to not suspect any hatred Macbeth has toward him, Macbeth acts in such a way which shows and expresses his gratitude and respect, highlighting that he is a capable and trustworthy individual. In response, Duncan states, “‘There’s no art to find the mind’s construction in the face. He was a gentleman on whom I built an absolute trust,’” (1.4.13-15). This quote spoken by King Duncan describes the previous thane of Cawdor who was executed in battle. Duncan expresses his sorrow and grief for losing the worthy thane, immediately giving Macbeth an idea of the characteristics Duncan is after when deciding who should be the next thane of Cawdor. By informing Macbeth of these specific details and expectations of the past thane of Cawdor, Macbeth is even more desperate to receive the title rather than Malcolm, who was initially chosen by