Theme Of Human Condition In Macbeth

William Shakespeare highlights enduring ideas about the human condition through the use of dramatic techniques in his tragedy plays. In his play Macbeth, Shakespeare effectively uses the dramatic techniques of character development, commentary by others and symbolism to reveal the enduring ideas of power, greed and ambition, along with its corruptive appeal; relationships and betrayal; and the common issues of loyalty leading to deception. These ideas are shown in exploring the tragic downfall of Macbeth.

The enduring idea of corruptive ambition, including power and greed, is explored by the use of dramatic techniques of characterisation, symbolism and commentary by others. Macbeth is seduced by the possibilities of power that the witches …show more content…
This is know as verisimilitude where he has to conceal his intent by putting on a ‘false face’. His corruptive ambition and greed continues with the murder of his best friend, Banquo. Macbeth driven by his ambition fears that Banquo will be “Father to a line of kings”. To prevent this Macbeth organises the murder of Banquo and his son Fleance. He concludes his conversation with the engaged murders with “It is concluded. Banquo, thy soul’s flight, If it find heaven must find it out tonight”. Lady Macbeth supports him in this corruptive ambition when she says in her soliloquy “’Tis safer to be that which we destroy than by destruction dwell in doubtful joy”. Shakespeare through his development of Macbeth’s character is revealing the enduring ideas about power, greed and ambition. This characterisation is effective as we see the honourable Macbeth descend into the pits of evil. Equally the comments by Lady Macbeth reveal the depths of the destructive power of greed. Symbolically, Shakespeare reveals the corruptive impact of greed upon Macbeth when he refers to his terrible dreams and loss of sleep. This reveals the enduring idea of the impact of excessive ambition on the human …show more content…
This is seen specifically through Macbeth’s various relationships with others in the play and is highlighted by the use of the dramatic techniques of characterisation, symbolism and commentary by others. Early on in the play, Macbeth sends his wife, Lady Macbeth a letter. He tells her the good news of the witches prophesying that he will be king, and Lady Macbeth is full of joy as she will be queen. We see that Macbeth and Lady Macbeth have a close relationship with no secrets. When she says in her duologue with Macbeth “Great Glamis, worthy Cawdor, Greater than both, by the all-hail hereafter,” she is complimenting him by saying that he will be greater that both the titles he holds. As the play progresses this relationship starts to break apart and Macbeth distances himself from her. This is especially prominent towards the end where Lady Macbeth is mentally unwell and the doctor says “she is troubled with thick coming fancies” when Macbeth asked how she is. Macbeth replies simply by ordering the doctor to “Cure her of that”. This is seen as very commanding but the rest of what he says indicates that he doesn’t really have much hope and that he doesn’t have time to check up on her and look after her. The character development of both Macbeth and his lady reveal how the guilt of their combined actions has destroyed the relationship as well as