Power In Macbeth

Power is a constant struggle in society, but how far will people go to claim power? Can the thirst for power led to sin? Are there any repercussions from having too much power? The celebrated playwright William Shakespeare presents his argument about power in his famous play, The Tragedy of Macbeth. In The Tragedy of Macbeth, the eponymous Scotsman receives a prophecy from three witches that he’ll become King of Scotland. Consumed by ambition for the throne and provoked by his wife, Macbeth murders the honorable King Duncan so that he can be the sole leader of Scotland. However, many thanes and sons of Duncan rebel against Macbeth’s despotic rule. Macbeth gains power by the act of killing; Macbeth loses his power and his life by the act of …show more content…
During the Renaissance, many members of royalty reigned over England, Scotland, and Wales. One prominent leader was King James I. Lewis Hall notes that King James I faced threats from religious opponents. King James I, a Protestant who wielded great power, “allowed Anti-Catholicism laws” to flourish in his kingdom. Professor Andrew Hadfield of the University of Sussex asserts that Guy Fawkes, a Catholic, participated in the Gunpowder Plot, and “attempted to kill James I and bomb both houses of Parliament.” This coup failed to kill the King. Shakespeare uses this chaotic moment in British history to influence scenes of his play. For instance, Processor Hadfield notes that “the attempt to murder [King James I] is comparable to Macbeth because he also tried to kill a king.” Shakespeare's The Tragedy of Macbeth illustrates the success and aftermath of a regicide, very much opposite of the Gunpowder Plot. By comparing The Tragedy of Macbeth and the Gunpowder Plot, it is clear that Fawkes and Macbeth are very similar: they are both subordinates who tried to kill powerful men--only latter succeeds. Macbeth was well aware of the authority and greatness of King Duncan, asserting that he “hath been so clear in his great office” (Shakespeare 1.7.17). Similar to James I, Duncan is a truly influential leader; however, Macbeth, a subordinate who has some power, aspires to be the King of Scotland. In addition, during the famous soliloquy in Act II, Macbeth is aware that he must partake in “bloody business” (2.1.49), Once Macbeth executes his “bloody businesses,” committing regicide, other subordinates, such as Angus, declare that the “title of [of king] hangs loose above [Macbeth]” (5.5.28). Undoubtedly, those with power will always have enemies who want their title, their