Macbeth Tragic Hero Research Paper

Macbeth The Fallen Hero Throughout history, many tragic heroic figures have encountered a downfall. Not because they are malevolent or villainous, but because of a character flaw. In William Shakespeare's’ tragedy, Macbeth the main character Macbeth embodies the tragic hero persona. Though he is believed to be of nobility, he is blinded by greed, ambition and power to a gruesome end by those very traits which bring him fortune. Macbeth’s tragedy of his heroism occurs through battling his self conscience, secondly by pride and ego, finally by fear to protect his ambition.

Lady Macbeth propels Macbeth to battle with his conscience in order to gain authority of Duncan's reign. “To be more than what you were, you would be so much more the man.” (I.VII.50-51) This portrays that Lady Macbeth is questioning Macbeth's manhood, which is pushing him to partially play the devil's advocate to go against his conscience to claim the throne. “I pray you speak not, he grows worse and worse.” (III.IV.117) Lady Macbeth tries to cover up Macbeth's sketchy behaviour by saying he has psychological issues, this causes Macbeth to battle his conscience further because of the inner guilt. Not only is
“There's but one down, the son fled.” (III.III.23) Macbeth wants to protect his reputation, and through the fear of guarding his ambition he overlooks Banquo's loyalty and thinks that by killing Banquo, his ambition won’t be at risk. “Tis better thee without, than thee with.” (III.IV.14) Macbeth would’ve been highly alarmed if Banquo was still alive, after killing Banquo he is relieved. He’s so relieved that he explains to the first murderer, blood is better on his face than to be running in Banquo's bloodstream. Alongside that, we all fear something and somehow it can drive one’s conscience, pride or ego any direction depending on the choices one has