Tragic Flaw Of Ambition In Macbeth

Webster’s definition of ambition is “a particular goal or aim; something that a person hopes to do or achieve.” Having ambition is needed, but when ambition and greed are placed together it can lead to much destroyed end. In Williams Shakespeare’s play Macbeth, the leading character shows a tragic flaw that will result in his downfall. Macbeth’s tragic flaw was his ambition. Macbeth 's vaulting ambition, though it is what brings him to his height of power, is also what leads him to his downfall. Macbeth 's ambition disables him to achieve his utmost goals and forces him to face his fate.
After Macbeth took down a rebellion with his comrade Banquo, he was approached by three witches who saw great power within Macbeth and Banquo. The witches make a prophecy. Macbeth, the Thane of Glamis, and Banquo have just defeated the allied forces of Norway and Ireland, who were led by the traitorous Macdonald and the Thane of Cawdor. The witches say Macbeth will be Thane of Glamis, Thane of Cawdor, and later king. Also, the witches said that the heir of Banquo would become king. When Macbeth returns King Duncan rewards him Thane of Cawdor for his hard work and devotion to his king. Upon hearing the news Macbeth wonders how he will become king. Will the reign fall upon him or will he have to commit a dark deed to gain the crown? King Duncan later announces …show more content…
We know that the only way the murder sprees will stop is if Macbeth comes to his demise, which will restore moral order to Scotland. At a feast Macbeth has the ghost of Banquo appears because Macbeth to act out of character. Lady Macbeth having to continue making excuses for him dismissed the guests, once again Lady Macbeth questions Macbeth’s manhood. After these events Macbeth tells his wife that he will visit the witches who will later give him false security that will cause his