Macbeth Essay Essay

Macbeth

A dynamic character is a character that goes through a vast amount of change throughout the story. Shakespeare's Macbeth is one of the greatest examples of a dynamic character, moving from light to dark, warm-hearted to cold-hearted; even good to evil. This change is clearly visible from his first thought of killing Duncan, then instantly kills Banquo without reflection. Macbeth begins his journey as an average man, no different than you or I. He is aware of the difference between what is right and what is wrong, and has a conscience, often feeling guilty from his acts. Nevertheless it is not long before Macbeth begins to commit crimes on innocent characters; being cold-hearted enough to murder without very much personal gain; making his decisions on impulse. In this essay, Macbeth's transformation from gentle and kind-hearted to cruel and aggressive will be revealed.

In the beginning, Macbeth is just like any other man. Loyal to his country, he holds his ethics to heart. "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." (1.7.12-17) Macbeth knows his plans to kill Duncan are not right as he is both loyal subject and host, and so refuses to betray this trust. Finally deciding Macbeth says, "We will proceed no further in this business. He hath honoured me of late, and I have bought golden opinions from all sorts of people, which would be worn now in their latest gloss, not cast aside so soon." (1.7.33-38) When Macbeth decides he will not kill the king he does so most thoughtfully. Duncan is the one he owes for the good reputation bestowed on him, and owes him a moral debt of sorts. It is Lady Macbeth who stirs the first changes in Macbeth, coaxing him with power. After the murder of Duncan, Macbeth is absolutely tormented by thoughts, "I'll go no more. I am afraid to think what I have done. Look on it again I...