Mental Conflict In Macbeth

Due to the inherent complexities of human nature, conflicts are bound to arise when groups and individuals are in a disagreement with each other. Despite being seen as inconvenient and uncomfortable by a majority of people, conflicts prompt the parties involved to come to a resolution they both agree on by examining the viewpoints of the opposing side. In WIlliam Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the play’s titular character engages in a numerous amount of conflicts. Macbeth forces his way into being crowned the King of Scotland. However, he slowly loses his ability to control his land, but more importantly, himself. Shakespeare’s Macbeth is driven by the three essential conflict mechanisms which arise from obstacles that Macbeth believes are a direct …show more content…
In fact, they become insecure about their past actions and fill their minds with doubt and guilt. Lady Macbeth is recognized for the mental conflicts that occur within herself throughout the play. Throughout the play, Lady Macbeth has shown that she is more ruthless than her husband, however, that is not the case when she asks, “The Thane of Fife had a wife. Where is she now? What, / will these hands ne’er be clean? Nor more o’that, my / lord, no more o’that. You mar all with this starting.” (Macbeth.5.1.38-40). This admission is uncharacteristic of Lady Macbeth since she has been known to be far more vengeful than Macbeth at this point in the play. However, while she is sleepwalking, it is revealed that there is a rational and somewhat compassionate side to her subconsciousness. Although her intentions are nefarious, she is concerned of the safety of others, as shown by the questioning of the whereabouts of Macduff’s wife. The hands of Lady Macbeth reference the stained blood from the former King of Scotland, and having Lady Macbeth unable to cleanse the hands emphasises the notion that what has been done cannot be modified. In addition, Macbeth experiences his own battles between himself as a result of his actions towards others. This is clearly stated when Macbeth ponders, “He’s here in double trust: / First, as I am his kinsman and his subject, / Strong both against the deed; then, as his host, / Who should against his murderer shut the door, / Not bear the knife myself.” (Macbeth.1.7.12-16). This quote explicitly reveals his inner conflict into determining whether or not he shall execute the King. Macbeth weighs in the possible consequences charged against him, shall he be proven guilty, and the moral and ethical values incorporated. The Thane of Cawdor recognizes that murdering the King will come with future repercussions that could generate chaos in