Examples Of Manhood In Macbeth

Macbeth Theme Analysis (Man vs. Man)
How does Macduff respond when asked to take the news about his family “like a man”
Macduff respond by saying “I shall do so, but I must also feel it like a man. I cannot help but remember things that were most precious to me… Naught that I am, not for their own demerits, but for mine..” (Act IV, Scene III, Line 254 - 257) His response indicates that he is hesitant to give in to his emotions but still feels and grieves for his family, then goes on to do his best to get revenge for his family. This response shows what was expected of man not only in the play but during the time period; men were supposed to be valorous, strong, and decisive. Macduff’s response to Malcolm’s request implies a congruence of all
Macduff’s understanding of manhood is similar to other understandings and definitions of manhood in earlier sections of the play. Similarly, Macduff believes that men should be able to take on the tasks that women would not be able to handle themselves (In the context of the predominant beliefs of that time’s society). An example of this would be in Act II, Scene III, when Macduff spreads the news of Duncan’s death; he says to Lady Macbeth: Tis not for you to hear what I can speak:/ The repetition, in a woman’s ear, / would murder as it fell.” He basically says that these type of news are too much for women to hear -- implying that women are immensely emotional and act upon feelings as opposed to their rationale. This is similar to what Lady Macbeth has to say when she calls Macbeth a little girl. However, his perspective on manhood seemingly changes in Act IV, Scene III, when he finds out his family was slaughtered, and then he mentions how he can cry and weep for his deceased family. “O, I could play the woman with mine eyes / and braggart with my tongue!” (IV. III. 264-265) Macduff’s perspective on manhood in the beginning contradicts that of the current; where his whole family is