Macbeth Theme of Ambition

Macbeth is often read as a cautionary tale about the kind of destruction ambition can cause. Macbeth is a man that at first seems content to defend his king and country against treason and rebellion and yet, his desire for power plays a major role in the way he commits the most heinous acts (with the help of his ambitious wife, of course). Once Macbeth has had a taste of power, he seems unable and unwilling to stop killing (men, women, and children alike) in order to secure his position on the throne. Selfishly, Macbeth puts his own desires before the good of his country until he is reduced to a mere shell of a human being. Of course, ambition isn't Macbeth's only problem. Be sure to read about the play's portrayal of "Fate and Free Will" also.

1. What is it that compels Macbeth to murder Duncan? What drives him to continue committing heinous acts after the initial murder?
2. What does Lady Macbeth say about her husband's ambition? What does this reveal about her desires?
3. If Macbeth believed he was fated to have the crown, can he be credited (or blamed) with ambition in trying to gain it?
4. What fuels Malcolm's interest in defending Scotland? Do his actions up to the final battle indicate that he's prepared to be King? Is he guilty of or credited with ambition? What is the difference between him and Macbeth, if the office they hold will be the same?

Ambition exists in both good and evil forms in Macbeth. On the one hand, some characters use ambition to act in the best interests of their country. On the other, some characters allow it to take the form of power-lust.

Macbeth portrays excessive ambition as unnatural and dangerous – it can ruin individuals and entire countries.