One of the
advantages of watching a play or reading as book is that audiences or readers form opinions of
their own. Over the centuries, 's accountability in and Shakesperare's
intent have been discussed at length. A modern audience may feel that Macbeth is answerable for
his actions as the notion of the noble soldier has dramatically changed with time. They would
not feel sorry for a man who cannot be "so much more the man" (I.vii.51) except
through deceit and murder.
Macbeth starts scheming right from the start
asreveal the possible extent of his future rise to king. He is faced with a similar future asand
yet his actions are very different. Banquo even wonders " "Good sir, why do you start,
and seem to fear things that do sound so fair?" ((I.iii.51) The witches have been proven
right in the first context of the Thane of Cawdor, so why not wait for the next, natural event.
Banquo even warns Macbeth of "the instruments of darkness."(I.iii.124)
Although stereotypes do still exist, in Shakespeare's day, they abounded and we
seebreaking with stereotypes in her efforts to "unsex" herself but at the same time
conflicted by her need to nurture her husband and "Partner of Greatness"(I.v.10) such
as Macbeth calls her. This reversal of gender roles could have confused Macbeth but, as the
previously valiant, courageous soldier, he later has no difficulty reaching past this as he
continues on his killing spree having successfully killed . He uses his position of power to
commit the most heinous deeds. It is his fear of discovery that sends him into a madness that
cannot be described or recognized, under the false belief that "none of woman born shall
harm" him.(IV.i.80)
Therefore some will argue that he is responsible for
his own downfall due to his own schemes and refusal to keep his ambition in
check.
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