Is Macbeth a machiavellian character - 1167 Words

...for how we live is so far removed from how we ought to live, that he who abandons what is done for what ought to be done, will rather learn to bring about his own ruin than his preservation.(Machiavelli 12) This is a quote from Machiavelli s The Prince. This is only one belief of Machiavelli, which, many great leaders have been known to use. Have you ever thought about a leader that possessed these qualities that was from a play? Shakespeare s character Macbeth represents the Machiavellian idea that a ruler should appear well in public, be smart and strong, and do what is necessary to hold onto power. Shakespeare used imagery, and metaphors to portray Macbeth this way because, although he dies in the end, Macbeth still used†¦show more content†¦(Machiavelli14) Machiavelli uses imagery/ symbolism to show animals being certain characteristics, the fox being wit and slyness, and the lion strength and bravery. Just as Machiavelli wrote, his rule applies to Macbeth s character in this quote. MACBETH Who can be wise, amazed, temp rate and furious, / Loyal and neutral in a moment? No man,/ Th expidition of my violent love/ Outran the pauser reason. Here lay Duncan,/ His silver skin laced with his golden blood,/ And his gashed stabs looked like a breach in nature/ For ruins wasteful entrance; there the murderers,/ Steeped in the colours of their trade, their daggers/ Unmannerly breeched with gore. Who could refrain/ That had a heart to love, and in hat heart/ Courage to make loves known. (2.3 105-115) As Machiavelli wrote Macbeth is showing this idea. He is using his wit to say he killed to guards out of violent love for the king. This quick witty response not only added to the trust from people around him, but also it stopped the guards from coming back to defend themselves, and challenge Macbeth. Macbeth used imagery of Duncan s body, which was so perfect and royal lying dead, still looking perfect and regal. Macbeth used this to make it seem that he loved King Duncan so much and he looked up so highly of him, he needed to kill the guards after what he they had done. Both Shakespeare and Machiavelli used imagery to show what a ruler needs in order toShow MoreRelatedMachiavellian Macbeth ? Essay1609 Words   |  7 Pages   Ã‚  While Macbeth exhibits certain Machiavellian characteristics, he does not heed Machiavellis advice regarding rulers who desire to obtain their principalities through crime, and through either the ignorance of, or disregard for, this advice, Macbeth cannot be considered Machiavellian. Hence it should be noted that in taking hold of a state, he who seizes it should examine all the offenses necessary for him to commit, and do them all at a stroke....For injuries must be done all togetherRead MoreEssay Macbeth776 Words   |  4 PagesShakespeare’s Macbeth, the main character, Macbeth, can be compared in many was to a Machiavellian prince. Macbeth’s ambition to be king and his desire for power are the basis of Machiavelli’s ideas, but when examined more closely we find many flaws in Macbeth’s character that Machiavelli warns will be destructive. Although Macbeth has many Machiavellian characteristics, Macbeth’s rise to power without true â€Å"fortune† or â€Å"virtue† leads him to his downfall. nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;The character of MacbethRead MoreMachiavelli ´s Principle in Macbeth by William Shakespeare Essay1648 Words   |  7 PagesTHESIS STATEMENT Macbeth, by William Shakespeare, applies the Machiavellian principles of how princes should properly conduct themselves which is directly applied through Duncan, Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, and Malcolm. PURPOSE STATMENT Through analytic research, this paper will examine, as well as, compare and contrast the Machiavellian principles to the characters in Macbeth. The focus will include the influence of his principles, how they affect the characters, behaviors, and if they fit the descriptionRead MoreWilliam Shakespeare’S Macbeth Remains As A Crucial Play1705 Words   |  7 PagesWilliam Shakespeare’s Macbeth remains as a crucial play in understanding the central concepts that shape modern Western civilization. The novel dramatizes the mental and physical impacts of those pursuing political power. For centuries, medieval and Renaissance civilizations were assured of a harmony between political and religious ideals. Audiences during Shakespeare’s time were familiar with kingdoms that incorporated religious aspects into their political systems. In Scotland and England, theRead MoreMacbeth - Supernatural Theme809 Words   |  4 Pagessupernatural forces in William Shakespeare s, Ma cbeth, provides for much of the play s dramatic tension and the mounting suspense. Several supernatural apparitions throughout the play profoundly affect Macbeth and the evil forces eventually claim Macbeth and destroy his morals. Macbeth s ambition was driven by the prophecies of the three witches and unlike Banquo, he was willing to do anything to assure that they actually transpire. Macbeth is horrified at the notion of killing Duncan, hisRead MoreMichael Attenborough’s Macbeth at the Playhouse by Queensland Theatre Company1199 Words   |  5 Pages QUEENSLAND THEATRE COMPANY’S MACBETH: A CRITICAL REFLECTION Having been much anticipated, Michael Attenborough’s Macbeth was recently shown at the Playhouse by Queensland Theater performed by The Grin and Tonic Theatre Troupe as part of the Arts for all Queenslanders strategy instilled by Newman Government in 2013 (Walker, I. 2014. pg 3). With this in place it’s allowing renowned actors and directors to dazzle Queensland theatregoers with a new waveRead MoreDepartment 19 Villains1170 Words   |  5 Pagesï » ¿Essay English Through the study of the three texts; Department 19 by Will Hill, ‘Macbeth’ the play and The Social Network by David Fincher, it is evident that literary villains are archetypes that often represent the evil side of human nature. One may argue that each villain has certain traits that allow the reader to be drawn to the terror and horror of their deeds yet also allow readers to reflect upon the society that has created such individuals. Authors stray their villains from the stereotypeRead MoreSimilarities Between Okonkwo And Things Fall Apart1242 Words   |  5 PagesShakespeare’s Macbeth revolves around the main character of Macbeth, who plots out a Machiavellian scheme to become king of the realm. Upon becoming king Macbeth attempts to ward off any threat to his reign and succession by all means. In Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, Okonkwo, the main character, equally does anything and everything to prove his valor. Though set in 11th century Scotland and 19th century Nigeria respectively, and portrayed through the main characters of Macbeth and Okonkwo, theRead MoreMacbeth As A Tyrant Essay1281 Words   |  6 PagesThe Downfall of a Tyrant Shakespeare wrote Macbeth in 1606, during the reign of James I, who was James IV of Scotland before he became the King of England. James I, was a sponsor of Shakespeare’s theatre, so it is clear that Shakespeare’s work was affected by James I’s sensitivities. Murder and intrigue was a part of the Scottish Reign when James was growing, and in fact, James’s father was murdered when he was just a baby. Macbeth tells the story of a Scottish general who, through prophecies receivedRead MoreThe Downfall of Macbeth by William Shakespeare1258 Words   |  5 Pages The play Macbeth is set around the rise and the fall of the protagonist, Macbeth. The audience perceives that there are a number of culprits that have caused his eventual down fall, such as Lady Macbeth, the three witches and Macbeth himself. We cannot ignore the thought that each of the factors has played a fairly notable role yet only one is truly responsible for setting off the tumultuous cycle of the play. Personally, when thinking over the causes and consequences I have come to a considered