essay titles for macbeth

129 Macbeth Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best macbeth topic ideas & essay examples, 👍 good essay topics on macbeth, 📌 most interesting macbeth topics to write about, 👍 good research topics about macbeth, ❓ macbeth essay questions.

Writing an essay on Shakespearean tragedies may be tricky for some students. There are a lot of ideas to put in your paper, and that may puzzle you. That’s why we’ve prepared a short guide on how to write Macbeth essay.

Macbeth is a tragedy by William Shakespeare based on the true story of Scottish king Macbeth. The play tells us about a Scottish general who heard a prophecy from a trio of witches and decided to bring predictions to fulfillment. This is a drama about the jeopardy of excessive lust for power and betrayal of friends.

Some researchers state that William Shakespeare adopted the plot from Holinshed’s Chronicles, a popular history of England, while others argue that the plot of the play was borrowed from George Buchanan. Before you start your Macbeth essay, you should do thorough research on facts and fiction around the play.

To give you ideas on how and what to write in your essay, check the tips below:

• Check our Macbeth essay samples to acquire knowledge on characters: Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, King Duncan, Banquo, Malcolm, Macduff, Three Witches, and others. Each character is unique, and it’s quite easy to write a paper on each of them. Make a meticulous analysis of each of them, if you decide to write an essay on Macbeth characters. Use dialogues and monologues as supporting arguments to your ideas.
• In your Macbeth essay introduction provide readers with the thesis statement and a summary you’re going to discuss in the paper. Specify what exactly you will depict or analyze. Sometimes, you may need to write the intro after you finish the body and already have done an in-depth analysis of text and critique materials.
• When writing body paragraphs, describe the essay topic in detail. Start each section with a short statement, provide a supporting quote, explain it, and make a conclusion. You can always analyze IvyPanda Macbeth essay titles to learn various points of view on each character and event.
• In the Macbeth essay conclusion, reiterate a topic and your analysis. You should not only summarize the information you’ve gathered and analyzed in the paper body. You have to get back to the intro and provide clear and extensive answers on the questions you raised. Try not to leave any further questions for your readers. Here’s the secret: some professors read the conclusion first. So make it persuasive and give a complete portion of information.

You may be wondering how to use essay examples that you may find on our website. It is super easy. First of all, look through the titles to get some topic ideas.

Then, look through the sample and learn how to create your outline. Think about what you can write in your essay. Check the bibliography: there you can find useful sources for the research.

Indeed, any paper on Shakespeare’s play may concern a variety of topics. So check out our Macbeth essay examples and think of the topics which you can choose.

• Dramatic Irony in Macbeth Essay Shakespeare uses dramatic irony to amuse the audience and to show the level of deception developed by the main character. The porter gives a clear picture of what is about to happen.
• Betrayal in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” The betrayer, Macbeth betrays the King, friend and other subjects in the kingdom. However when Macbeth is told he has just been chosen as the Thane of Cawdor, scenes of the possibilities of him as […]
• The Use of Hands as a Motif in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” The play presents readers with the world of royalty and the well-knit state; the world of Duncan, his two sons, Banquo, Macbeth and the whole of Scotland and England.
• William Shakespeare: Hamlet and Macbeth It is important to examine the role that the setting plays in Hamlet and Macbeth in relation to the tragic flaw and developments of the plot.
• Unchecked Ambition in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” However, in Act 1, scenes 1 to 4, the audience is introduced to Macbeth’s increasing fear and the developing desire to be the king. It appears that the desire to be the king overrides his […]
• Supernatural Elements of Act I and II in Macbeth In the play, the supernatural things are central to the plot of the play as they provide a basis for action as Shakespeare meant them to fit in putting the play together.
• Macbeth & Frankenstein: Compare & Contrast In the being of the play, we assume that Macbeth is akin to the king, a loyal soldier, and a person “full of the milk of human kindness”.
• Concept of Power in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” While The government is the system that makes laws and ensures that they are followed, it is the person who wields power who is responsible for the equality and impartiality of its enforcement.
• The Downfall of Macbeth Nonetheless, he goes on to murder the king and his character takes a turn for the worst as he kills the chamberlains who would give witness of the king’s death and he claims he killed […]
• British Literature: Beowulf vs. Macbeth They are as follows: the presentation of the heroes, the consideration of the ethical themes, and the final stages of the plays the latter help to draw some ethical conclusions based on the peculiarity of […]
• Comparison of the Opening Scene of Macbeth by Orson Welles and The Tragedy of Macbeth by Roman Polanski The opening scene of The Tragedy of Macbeth starts with the words “fair is foul and foul is fair” that Polanski takes from the end of the Shakespeare’s scene.
• “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare: Language and Tropes Typically, ‘the end of something means the onset of another.’ Using this as a viewpoint that provides a lead to what Macbeth is all about, the fact that ‘we will proceed no further in this […]
• Omens in The “Macbeth” Play by William Shakespeare The supernatural was an aspect of the plot structure used to add tension and drama to the occurrences and situations and manifested in various ways. To conclude, the owl and raven were utilized as omens […]
• Shakespeare Tragedies: Macbeth and King Lear At the beginning of the play, he decides to abdicate his throne and divide his kingdom among his three daughters. This choice eventually undermines the ethical integrity of this character, and he murders murder to […]
• Character Analysis of “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare The unplanned overnight stay of King Duncan and his entourage at Macbeth’s castle precipitates Macbeth’s first fateful decision: to murder King Duncan and clear the way for the witches’ prophecy to come true.
• Macbeth and Hamlet Characters Comparison The queens in Hamlet and Macbeth play a pivotal role in the life of the heroes of the play. She is portrayed as a mother who, in her awareness of Hamlet’s crisis, feels guilty and […]
• The “Macbeth” Film by Rupert Goold While Shakespeare’s play happened in the 11th century in Scotland, the movie’s design is more similar to the events of the 20th century. Corresponding to the era of the first half of the 20th century, […]
• Macbeth Versions Comparison Film Analysis The use of classic settings in the design of the play helps in portraying the role that gangsters play in the original play of Macbeth and helps present it in the modern world.
• Emotions and Outward Actions in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” In this regard, in William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the relationship of inward emotions and outward actions is relevant in fully conveying the interplay of themes in this tragedy.
• Characters’ Traits in Shakespeare’s Macbeth As weird as it might sound, Lady Macbeth is very emotional; as a matter of fact, the crimes that she committed can be attributed to her emotionality rather than her greed, though the latter has […]
• Drama Macbeth: Shakespeare’s Play and Wells’ Film However, the play communicates the meaning of the text in a better way as compared to the film by Orson Wells.
• The Life and Work of William Shakespeare: His Contribution to the Contemporary Theater In addition, the plays and sonnets of William Shakespeare continue to set the standard for the study of the English language in its dramatic context in institutes of higher learning and performance training.
• Supernatural in “Macbeth” Play by Shakespeare The supernaturally manufactured predictions lure Macbeth and Banquo with the idea of power, leading Macbeth to plot the cruel murder of Duncan.
• The Play “Macbeth” by Shakespeare and the Film “Maqbool” by Bhardwaj Bhardwaj’s Maqbool is a great example of how the weather sets the tone for the story, it is not the backdrop in the film, but an active force expressing the psychological state of the characters.
• Jeffrey R. Wilson: Macbeth and Criminology The genre of tragedy used in Macbeth poses the question to the reader: who is responsible for committing a crime – the individual or the society?
• Intro to Theatre: “Macbeth” Shakespeare’s theatrical performances are widespread all over the world and do not lose their relevance, both due to the problems raised by the playwright and the various interpretations of his works. One of such plays is the production of Macbeth directed by Bodinetz (2020) and created by the troupe of Digital Theater +. The performance […]
• The Story of Macbeth by W. Sheakspeare: Relationship and Strengths Between Macbeth and His Wife Lady Macbeth reads a letter her husband had written about the witches’ prophecy and manipulates him to kill King Duncan and take over the kingdom.
• Analyzing the Adaptation of the Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” Furthermore, the names of all the characters in both films are the same except for a little twist in the spelling of names like Mcbeth and Mcduff.
• Literary Character Analysis of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” The very reason that made me write about this character was how he is depicted as a hero in the opening pages of the play, and only to learn how weak he is from his […]
• Shakespeare and His View on Kingship: Macbeth, King Lear and Othello At the same time, it is beyond doubt in the basement Macbeth’s character is clean and as a soldier, he is true to his job and his king.
• Representing the Heroic: Macbeth and Odysseus In Homer’s Odyssey, the noble nature of the hero is made clear in the way that his servants speak of him and strive to behave as he would expect.
• Analysis of Characters in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” The witches’ predictions spark Macbeth’s ambitions and then hearten his violent performance; Lady Macbeth offers the brains and the will behind her husband’s intrigues; and the only heavenly being to emerge is Hecate, the divinity […]
• Shakespeare’s Tragedy of Macbeth The world of Macbeth is a world of contradiction. Already a successful soldier in the army of King Duncan, Macbeth is informed by Three Witches that he is to become “Thane of Glamis!”, “Thane of […]
• Shakespearean Macbeth as a Tragic Hero In addition to fighting for his king, Macbeth is quickly and well rewarded for his efforts as King Duncan makes him the new Thane of Cawdor in addition to his already holding the title of […]
• Shakespear’s “Macbeth”: Main Character Change Analysis Macbeth is essentially the story of a character who lives his life in a state of confusion to the degree that the only constant in his life changes.
• Chaucer’s ‘Miller’s Tale’ and Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’ Chaucer’s The Miller’s Tale and in Shakespeare’s Macbeth, to be more exact, we will find out how the notion of poetic justice is represented by examples of the main characters of the works mentioned.
• An Explication on Shakespeare’s Macbeth However, Macbeth’s wife is murdered and the news is broken to him, and he is drifted into a life of futility and remorsefulness.
• Literary Elements in “Macbeth” Poem In addition, use of Symbolism imagery and symbolism creates a better picture in audience mind, concerning the themes that the play covers; such as where dark is used to represent evil.
• King Macbeth in Shakespeare’s Play and History He proved to be a courageous man and ambitious because he wanted to become the king, and the only way he could do it was by killing the king.
• Themes in the Tragedy of Macbeth by Shakespeare The character of Macbeth is used by Shakespeare to illustrate a man who lacks the strength of moral fiber under the affection of guilt and ambition.
• Macbeth: An Analysis of the Play by Shakespeare Macbeth’s treachery springs from his reliance to the witches who gave him prophecy that results in his endless creation of enemies.
• Oedipus King vs. Macbeth: Drama Comparison The concept reflects the foundation of the decent authority through showing the tendencies of power both in the ancient times and in the period of Renaissance.
• Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” and Sophocles’ “Oedipus” The idea of a person being in the center of the action and trying to overcome some problems connected with doom, fate and some other supernatural forces become peculiar to this kind of art.
• Macbeth by Shakespeare and Oedipus by Sophocles Comparison In Act 1 Scene 3 of Macbeth, we have the three witches who greet him and inform him that he is to become the “Thane of Cawdor,” the title that he will receive that evening, […]
• Shakespeare Literature: Prophecy and Macbeth Morality The divination made by the witches pushes Macbeth further into immorality as he is made to believe that he deserves the position of king. In addition, Macbeth abandons reason and morality so as to make […]
• Power and Evocation of Horror: The Macbeth Witches’ Chant Among them are the rhymes, the rhythm of the words, the interpolation of a chorus, the increasing complexity of the lines as the poem progresses, and the vivid and horrifying imagery.
• Philosophy of Literature: Shakespearean Tragedy In addition, it is also an indication of the facts that human beings are always nosy and ready to participate in other people’s issues.
• The Ambitions and Immoral Decision in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Analyzing Macbeth’s Conscience Throughout Shakespeare’s Play “Macbeth”
• Murder and Power in William Shakespeare’s Play “Macbeth”
• Unprincipled Ambition in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Use of Supernatural to Create Suspense in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Psychological Victimization of William Shakespeare’s Protagonist in “Macbeth”
• Responsibility for Planning to Kill Duncan in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Dramatic Techniques to Create a Sense That Macbeth Is Not in Control of His Own Thoughts and Deeds
• An Analysis of Jam-Packed With Malfeasance and Darkness in the Play “Macbeth” by Shakespeare
• The Application of Imagery in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Witches, Supernatural, and Evil in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• The Banquet Scene of William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Analyzing Macbeth’s Weak Character in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Ambition Often Results in Greed as Portrayed in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Psychoanalytical Criticism of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Women as The Driving Action of the Play in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• William Shakespeare’s Manipulation of the Audience Through “Macbeth”
• Suspense and the Supernatural in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Sharing the Blame in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Macbeth’s Tragic Downfall in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• The Characterization of Macbeth in Relation to the Development of Scotland in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Role Reversal in William Shakespeare’s Play “Macbeth”
• The Butcher and His Fiend Like Queen in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Supernatural Forces Create a Suspense Atmosphere in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• The Archetypal Tragic Hero Characteristics of William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” and Sophocles’ “Oedipus”
• An Analysis of Macbeth as a Victim of Circumstances in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Power, Ambition, and Treason in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• The Breakdown of Lady Macbeth in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Unbridled Ambition in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• The Art of Appeasement and the Political, Religious, and Social Issues Reflected in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Parallels Between Macbeth and Satan in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Some of the Ways in Which Shakespeare Portrays an Atmosphere of Evil in “Macbeth”
• An Analysis of Lady Macbeth’s Character in “Macbeth” by Shakespeare
• The Blood Imagery in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Macbeth’s Representation of Ambition in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• The Attract of Wicked in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• The Manipulations, Greed, and Guilt in William Shakespeare’s Play “Macbeth”
• Stereotypical Images of Women in “Macbeth” by Shakespeare
• Symbolism and Imagery in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Subjective Reality to the Viewer in the Play “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• The Betrayal of Human Nature in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Treatment of Gender Disruption in William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” and “Macbeth”
• Significance of Act Four Scene One in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Role of Women in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Recurring Images in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Similarities Between the Philosophies From Machiavelli’s “The Prince” and Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• The Aristotelian Standards of a Tragic Hero in the Tragedy of “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Struggles of the Conscience in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• The Battle Between Good and Evil in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Sleep and Its Meaning in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Relationship Between Spouses in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• A Musical Analysis of “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• What Did Macbeth’s Character, Words, and Actions Show About Changes in His Character?
• Who Are the Women in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”?
• When Power Falls Into the Wrong Hands in “Macbeth”?
• Why Are the Period and Place Important in “Macbeth”?
• What Makes William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” a Pessimistic Play?
• How Ambitions and Immoral Decision Play a Part in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”?
• How and Why Does Macbeth Turn a War Hero Into an Evil Murderer?
• Did the Three Witches Push Macbeth to Kill Duncan?
• What Are the Attitudes Towards Gender Can Be Seen in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”?
• What Part Does the Supernatural Play in “Macbeth”?
• Was Macbeth Responsible for His Downfall?
• Does Shakespeare Present Lady Macbeth as Good or Evil?
• Can One Feel Pity for Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”?
• What Dramatic Techniques Are Used in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”?
• How Did Lady Macbeth and Macbeth’s Relationship Change Throughout the Play?
• What Did Macbeth Say About Good and Evil?
• Does Shakespeare Present Lady Macbeth as Fiend-Like?
• Does Macbeth Have Power?
• How Did Macbeth Turn From “Nobel Macbeth” to “A Bloody Butcher”?
• What Does Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” Have to Say About Kingship?
• Did Macbeth Suffer From Fate?
• What Are the Character Traits of Lady Macbeth?
• Does Macbeth Have Free Will?
• What Are the Influences of the Witches’ Prophecies on Macbeth’s Actions?
• How Are the Themes of Appearance and Reality Presented in “Macbeth”?
• How Are Characters Presented as Disturbed in “Macbeth”?
• Was Macbeth Considered the Tragic Hero of the Play?
• How Did Lady Macbeth and Witches Change?
• What Are the Differences and Similarities Between “Medea” and “Macbeth” Plays?
• What Factors Lead Macbeth to Kill Duncan?
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30 Macbeth Essay Topics

Most commonly assigned as required reading for high school and college students, Macbeth is one of Shakespeare’s most famous tragedies. The play is set in medieval Scotland and chronicles the rise and fall of its eponymous protagonist, Macbeth, who murders his way to the throne but is ultimately undone by his ambition and paranoia.

While Macbeth can be a challenging read, it is also one of the most rewarding, offering a complex and multi-layered exploration of themes like ambition, morality, and fate.

If you are tasked with writing an essay on Macbeth, there are many possible essay writing formats you can use to analyze, compare, summarize, and discuss the play. This guide will walk you through writing a Macbeth essay and provide 30 Macbeth essay topics to get you started on your next writing assignment.

Argumentative Essay Writing for Macbeth

An argumentative essay is a type of essay that asks you to take a position on a given issue or question. Argumentative essays are common assignments in high school and college, especially in literature courses.

In an argumentative essay about Macbeth, you will take one position on one of the play’s many themes and argue for your interpretation using specific evidence from the text.

Argumentative essay topics for Macbeth need to include both sides of the argument and should be framed as a question. For example, “Is Macbeth a tragic hero?” or “What is the role of gender in Macbeth?”

Once you have chosen your topic, you will need to find evidence from the play to support your position. Be sure to cite specific lines and passages from the text as evidence in your essay.

Comparative Essay Writing for Macbeth

Comparative essays ask you to compare and contrast two or more things such as characters, themes, motifs, plot elements, etc. A comparative essay about Macbeth can take many different forms, but one common approach is to compare the characters of Macbeth and Banquo.

When writing a comparative essay about Macbeth and Banquo, you will want to consider how they are similar and different. What motivates them? How do they react to the events of the play? Are they good or evil? You can also compare and contrast other pairs of characters, such as Lady Macbeth and Lady Macduff or Duncan and Malcolm.

Persuasive Essay About Macbeth

In a persuasive essay, your goal as the writer is to convince your reader to agree with your position on a given issue or question. Like an argumentative essay, you will want to use evidence from the play to support your claims.

When writing a persuasive essay about Macbeth, you can take a position on anything from whether or not Macbeth is a tragic hero to what motivates the characters in the play.

Unlike an argumentative essay on Macbeth, a persuasive essay about the play will need to be heavily opinionated to make a convincing argument. Be sure to take a clear and definitive stance on your chosen topic, and use specific evidence from the play to support your claims.

Narrative Essay About Macbeth

A narrative essay is a type of essay that tells a story. In a narrative essay about Macbeth, you will be asked to recount and describe an event or series of events from the play. Your goal in a narrative essay is not to take a position or argue a point but simply to tell the story in an engaging and interesting way.

Formatting Citations for a Macbeth Essay

Since you will need to cite directly from the play to back up the arguments and comparisons drawn from the play, it’s essential to understand the correct formatting for quotations from Macbeth.

If you are asked to write in MLA formatting (standard at most educational institutions), each quotation will need to be ended with the speaker’s name in italics, followed by the act, scene number, and line number(s) in parentheses.

For example:

“…Creeps in this petty pace from day to day” ( Macbeth 5.5.17-28).

If the quoted text is more than one line, be sure to separate each verse with a forward slash as follows:

“To-morrow, and to-morrow, and to-morrow / Creeps in this petty pace from day to day” ( Macbeth 5.5.17-28).

If the quoted text is part of a conversation, use block quotations by indenting each line of the quoted text 1″ from the left margin (hit the TAB button twice). Additionally, you’ll need to capitalize all of the letters in the name. End the quote with the plays name, act, and scene number as follows:

HAMLET. To be, or not to be–that is the question:

Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer

The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune

Or to take arms against a sea of troubles

And by opposing end them… ( Hamlet 3.1.56-60)

You’ll notice that after the initial 1″ margin, each subsequent line will also need an additional indentation. If quoting dialogue from two or more people, each person should start with capital letters and an indented 1″ margin:

FIRST WITCH. When shall we three meet again?

In thunder, lightning, or in rain?

SECOND WITCH. When the hurlyburly’s done,

When the battle’s lost and won . ( Macbeth 1.1.1-4)

With the vast amount of information and things to discuss in the play Macbeth, it can be hard to narrow it all down to one topic. But, with this list of 30 Macbeth essay topics, you should have no trouble coming up with an essay to fit your needs.

• How does Macbeth’s character change throughout the play?
• Is Macbeth a tragic hero? Why or why not?
• Who is most responsible for Macbeth’s downfall?
• Discuss the role of gender in Macbeth.
• Is ambition a positive or negative trait? Use examples from Macbeth to support your claim.
• How does Shakespeare use the supernatural in Macbeth?
• Discuss the role of fate in Macbeth.
• Compare and contrast Macbeth and Lady Macbeth’s relationship.
• Discuss the role of deception in Macbeth.
• What motivates the characters in Macbeth?
• Is violence ever justified? Use examples from Macbeth to support your claim.
• Discuss the theme of ambition in Macbeth.
• Compare and contrast the characters of Macbeth and Banquo.
• Discuss the theme of power in Macbeth.
• Discuss the theme of loyalty in Macbeth.
• What is the significance of the witches in Macbeth?
• How does Shakespeare use foreshadowing in Macbeth?
• Discuss the role of greed in Macbeth.
• What is the significance of Macbeth’s soliloquies?
• Discuss the theme of betrayal in Macbeth.
• Compare and contrast Macbeth and Lady Macbeth’s attitudes toward power.
• Discuss the theme of sanity vs. insanity in Macbeth.
• Discuss the theme of appearance vs. reality in Macbeth.
• How does Shakespeare use irony in Macbeth?
• What is the significance of blood in Macbeth?
• Discuss the theme of corruption in Macbeth.
• What is the significance of nature vs. nurture in Macbeth?
• Discuss the theme of good vs. evil in Macbeth.
• What is the significance of the title “Macbeth”?

With these Macbeth essay topics, you should have no trouble coming up with an essay to fit your needs. Remember to cite all quotes and paraphrases from the play Macbeth and use MLA format.

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The play examines the corrupting power of ambition. Whose ambition functions as the driving force of the narrative , Macbeth or Lady Macbeth? Why?

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107 Macbeth Essay Topics

🏆 best essay topics on macbeth, ✍️ macbeth essay topics for college, 👍 good macbeth research topics & essay examples, 🎓 most interesting macbeth research titles, ❓ essay questions for macbeth.

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• Macbeth, Macduff, and Banquo in Shakespeare’s Play
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• Leadership Styles and Macbeth’s Leadership Shakespeare’s Macbeth showed that he was a capable leader at the beginning of the play, but later on, he became overly authoritative.
• Role of Evil in Shakespeare’s Macbeth Prophecies in Shakespeare’s Macbeth play a significant role in advancing the themes of good and evil, treachery and loyalty, crime, and violence, which are common in the play.
• Blood Symbolism in “Macbeth” by Shakespeare The blood acts as a sign of guilt and murder, which Shakespeare employs to illustrate the personalities of Macbeth and his wife, Lady Macbeth.
• Gender and Power in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” In Macbeth’s marriage, Lady Macbeth’s usurpation of the dominant role is often reflected in disruption because she controlled and dictated her husband’s actions.
• How Shakespeare Presents Macbeth as Being Influenced by His Lady Macbeth? Shakespeare portrays Macbeth as a lady who influences her husband’s decision-making negatively because she is stronger, ruthless, decisive, and ambitious.
• Legends of British Literature: Beowulf and Macbeth Both Beowulf and Macbeth are legendary men of British literature. Their adventures have been read, turned into theatrical plays and widely discussed by many generations of people
• Fate in Beowulf and Shakespeare’s Macbeth In Beowulf and Macbeth, the main characters were significantly influenced by fate; but it was feasible for them to make decisions and obtain control over life’s happenings.
• Design of Act IV Scene I of Shakespeare’s Macbeth Play This paper presents the different performance designs that will be incorporated in Act IV, Scene 1 of Macbeth.
• Power and Ambition in Shakespeare’s “The Tragedy of Macbeth” Shakespeare’s “The Tragedy of Macbeth” describes how destructive seeking power can be if a person does not have sufficient control over his or her desires.
• Responsibility in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare “Macbeth” is a play, one of the most famous tragedies by William Shakespeare. It is based on the true story of the Scottish king Macbeth and reveals an excessive lust for power.
• Symbolism in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare Macbeth is a symbol that any society should try to avoid. It signifies that if life is lead by ambition that would not be stopped by anything regardless of this hostility the world will be in danger.
• Two Scenes in “The Tragedy of Macbeth” by Shakespeare Comparing two scenes related to King Macbeth and his wife is a convenient way to interpret the work more thoroughly by analyzing repetitive motifs.
• Shakespeare’s Macbeth: Ambition Corrupts Good Morals This essay critically explores this theme by analyzing Macbeth’s character to exemplify how his uncontrolled desire for power leads him to success and, ultimately, destruction.
• A Flow of Ambition in Shakespeare’s Macbeth In the work of the British writer, the readers face a flaw of ambition that controls the actions of the main character.
• Polanski’s and Kurzel’s Film Adaptations of Macbeth This paper explores two well-known film adaptations of Macbeth, Polanski’s Macbeth and the modern remake of Macbeth, directed by Justin Kurzel.
• Macbeth and Romeo and Juliet: Play Analysis Composed by William Shakespeare, Macbeth is a mental and shocking story of visually impaired aspiration. The second play or the adapted story of Romeo and Juliet is West Side Story.
• “The Tragedy of Macbeth” by William Shakespeare “The Tragedy of Macbeth” by Shakespeare serves as a reflection of the relationship between the playwright and King James I, but, its implications stay relevant in the modern days.
• The Strange, Dark World of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” The story of the play “Macbeth” – a tragedy written by William Shakespeare in 1605 or 1606 and published in 1628.
• Shakespeare’s Macbeth vs. Tolkiens’ Smeagol Macbeth is a relative of the king, in line for leadership. Smeagol is a cut-throat of dubious, possibly Halfling origins with none but himself and his purloined ring for company.
• Literature: the Play “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare Shakespeare perfectly reveals the aspects of human nature, imbuing his plays with a timeless universality. Macbeth is not an exception.
• Analyzing the Woman’s Role in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Lady Macbeth: Relationship, Witchcraft, Power, and Ambition
• Betrayal and Immoral Actions in “Macbeth”
• Physical Appearance Versus True Personality Depicted in Shakespeare’s Macbeth
• Abnormal Behavior and Treatment: Lady Macbeth
• Macbeth’s Conscience Throughout Shakespeare’s Play “Macbeth”
• Ambition, Death, and Power: Themes Found in the First Scene of “Macbeth” By Shakespeare
• Darkness and the Agents of Chaos in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• “Macbeth” and Its Relevance in Today’s Society
• Can One Feel Pity for Shakespeare’s Macbeth?
• Political History and Corruption in “Macbeth”
• Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely: Shakespeare’s Macbeth and Pol Pot
• Macbeth and Lady Macbeth Before and After Murder
• Comparing and Contrasting Macbeth’s and Hamlet’s Madness
• Analyzing Macbeth and Lady Macbeth’s Relationship, and How It Mirrors the State of Scotland
• Moral Decision-Making Within Macbeth’s Philosophy
• Death and the Supernatural in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Blaming the Supernatural for the Downfall of Macbeth
• Gender Roles Throughout the Play “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Attitude Changes Throughout “Macbeth”
• Macbeth and the Interplay Between Foresight and Fear
• Disorder and the Chain of Being in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Parallels Between Macbeth and Satan in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Character Insights That Can Be Drawn From Lady Macbeth’s Soliloquies
• Ambition and Its Negative Effects: “The Great Gatsby” and “Macbeth”
• Power, Authority, and Corruption in “Macbeth”
• Audience’s Feelings About Macbeth of William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Dark Images and Imagery in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Macbeth and Highly Regarded Masculinity
• Changing Relationship Between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth
• “Hamlet” and “Macbeth”: Justifiable Homicide and Cold-Blooded Murder
• Alternative Ending for “Macbeth”
• Macbeth and Lady Macbeth: The Reactions and Judgments of Each Other
• Dramatic Contribution of Lady Macbeth to the Play as a Whole
• Comparing Two Different Film Versions of William Shakespeare’s Macbeth
• Lady Macbeth and Her Power to Manipulate Macbeth’s True Feelings
• Banquo’s Power and Evil in “Macbeth”
• Ambition and the Tragic Demise of Macbeth
• Polanski and Freeston’s Interpretation of the Play “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Equivocation and Double Meanings in “Macbeth”
• Deception, Seduction, and Ambition in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Shakespeare’s Ideas and Attributes Towards Kingship in “Macbeth”
• Common Themes and Character Traits in “Macbeth” and “Candide”
• Macbeth and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Appearance vs. Reality: Macbeth
• Evaluating Lady Macbeth’s Strong Desire for Power in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• Blind Violence and Desire in “Macbeth”
• Compromising Honor and Loyalty for Power and Manipulation in “Macbeth”
• Analyzing the Witches Prophecies in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Evil and Gender Archetypes in “Macbeth”
• Why Does Macbeth Refer to the Dagger as “Fatal Vision”?
• Why Does Macbeth Believe He Has a Charmed Life?
• What Moral Standards Did Macbeth Adhere To?
• How Does Lady Macbeth Die?
• Which Three Apparitions Do the Witches Show Macbeth?
• What Happened in Inverness in the Play “Macbeth”?
• Why Is Lady Macbeth’s Reading of the Letter in Prose?
• How Did Shakespeare Link Symbolism and Mysticism in the Play “Macbeth”?
• Why Did Macbeth Kill Macduff’s Family?
• What Effect Does Lady Macbeth’s Death Have Upon Macbeth?
• Why Does Macbeth Think the Witches Want to Help Him?
• What Convinces Macbeth That the Witches’ Prophecy Is True?
• Who Is the Main Villain or Villains of the Play “Macbeth”?
• What Does Macbeth Feel When He First Hears the Witches’ Prophecies?
• Where Is Macbeth’s Castle Located?
• How Does Lady Macbeth Describe Macbeth’s Moral Character?
• How Does the Play “Macbeth” See Female and Male Power?
• Does Macduff Share in the Blame for the Death of His Wife and Children in the Play “Macbeth”?
• Is Any Character of “Macbeth” Presented as a Model for Manhood?
• What Are Macbeth’s First Words in the Play?
• Why Does Macbeth Agree to Do What Lady Macbeth Wants?
• How Does the Play “Macbeth” See Masculinity and Femininity and Their Relationship?
• What Is the Moral of the Play “Macbeth”?
• Does There Come a Time in the Play When Macbeth Acts on His Own?
• Does the Play “Macbeth” Present a View of Society, History, or Political Power?
• Does the Play “Macbeth” Have Any Heroes?
• What Role Do “Nature” and “Unnatural” Play in “Macbeth”?
• Is the Play “Macbeth” Relevant Today?
• What Are the Three Prophecies the Witches Give Macbeth?
• Why Are the Witches Referred to as the Weird Sisters in the Play “Macbeth”?

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StudyCorgi. (2022, December 30). 107 Macbeth Essay Topics. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/macbeth-essay-topics/

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StudyCorgi . "107 Macbeth Essay Topics." December 30, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/macbeth-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . 2022. "107 Macbeth Essay Topics." December 30, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/macbeth-essay-topics/.

These essay examples and topics on Macbeth were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on December 26, 2023 .

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180 Quality Macbeth Essay Topics To Score High

Writing a research paper on Shakespeare’s Macbeth requires a lot of hard work. Students must first choose a great topic that is manageable while also presenting a clear position on an arguable question. It should also adhere to the professor’s exact requirements whether it be a page count or a word count.

This can be difficult for all students but especially so for ENL students. We have put together a list of great Macbeth essay topics to help with the selection process.

Best Macbeth Essay Topics

This set of Macbeth essay topics covers a wide variety of areas suitable to diverse interests. At the college and university level, students should always conduct ample research to ensure they have accurate information from reliable sources and create custom college papers :

• To what extent does the supernatural influence Macbeth’s actions?
• How are the insanities of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth different from one another?
• Which of Lady Macbeth’s numerous wishes come true throughout the play?
• Are Macduff and Malcolm villains or heroes?
• How does Shakespeare utilize Malcolm, King Duncan, and Macbeth to represent kinship in the play?
• How does Macbeth’s behavior toward Lady Macbeth change after King Duncan’s health?
• Is Macbeth more of a heroic character or a loathsome character?
• How do ambitions lead Lady Macbeth to act a specific way?
• How does Macduff attempt to influence Malcolm’s actions?
• What are the major contributions to Macbeth’s downfall?
• What does blood symbolize for Macbeth and his wife?
• How does Shakespeare use offstage events to advance the plot?
• What actions do Macduff and Malcolm throughout Macbeth?
• How do Macbeth and Banquo’s responses to the early prophecies differ?
• How does Shakespeare characterize the witches?
• Are Macduff and Banquo heroic figures?
• How does Shakespeare explore the theme of the destruction of order in the play?
• What role does kinship play in Macbeth?
• How are Macbeth, Macduff, and Banquo different from one another?
• What role does ambition play in the lives of Macbeth and Malcolm?
• How are Macbeth, Macduff, and Banquo similar to one another?
• What role do visions and hallucinations play in the development of Macbeth’s character?
• Do you agree with the view that Macbeth is fighting a lost battle against forces beyond his control?
• How does Macbeth’s speech in Act V capture the major themes of the play?
• How does our attitude about Macbeth change throughout the play?
• Is justice served at the end of the play?
• How does Banquo’s reaction to the witches’ prediction reveal his true character?
• Is Lady Macbeth’s presence necessary after King Duncan’s death?
• Does Macbeth deserve his demise at the end of the play?
• What is the thematic significance of the witches?
• What role do the witches play in driving the action of the play?
• Are the characters Banquo, Malcolm, Macduff, and Lady Macduff necessary to the play?
• What does Coleridge’s comment about the witches’ power suggest?
• How does Shakespeare use suspense to keep audiences invested in the play?
• What are King Duncan’s most important contributions to the play?
• How does Macbeth know what is real and what is imagined?
• How effective is Shakespeare’s use of imagery in the play?
• Why does Shakespeare use the technique of elision in the play?
• How do Macbeth’s greed and dishonesty lead to his insanity?
• Is Macbeth the play’s most villainous character?
• What role does blood play immediately following King Duncan’s murder?
• Can Lady Macbeth be blamed for influencing Macbeth’s motivation to kill King Duncan?
• Who has the greatest responsibility for the murder of King Duncan?
• Is Macbeth a victim of his own character choices?
• What role do children play in Macbeth?

Macbeth Project Ideas For College

No matter the length of a project, students should always carefully plan to research and organize their ideas to express clear and concise opinions. These essay topics for Macbeth can be researched online and at the library and make for great projects that will impress the reading audience:

• Explain how Macbeth journal prompts have changed perspectives.
• Describe how Shakespeare alters historical characters in the play.
• Analyze the importance of introducing the Weird Sisters in Act 1.
• Explore how prophecies are fulfilled throughout the play.
• Examine Macbeth’s hallucinations and visions in the play.
• Compare and contrast the insanities of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth.
• Examine the importance of “Fair is foul, and foul is fair” in Act 1, Scene 1.
• Explore supernatural events that happen after King Duncan’s murder.
• Discuss the ways that Lady Macbeth tries to influence Macbeth.
• Explore the role of blood imagery plays in the drama.
• Examine and discuss the various roles the witches play in Macbeth.
• Examine the nature of kinship as presented by King Duncan versus Macbeth.
• Describe how Shakespeare explores the concept of self-victimization.
• Compare and contrast the actions of Lady Macbeth and Lady Macduff.
• Compare and contrast Macbeth and Malcolm’s approaches towards the king’s murder.
• Explore the role of ambition in the lives of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth.
• Discuss the presence of half-truths and their use in advancing the plot.
• Examine and discuss the concept of victimization.
• Examine Banquo’s opinion of Macbeth before he is killed.
• Explore attitudes such as admiration, sympathy, and disgust concerning Macbeth.
• Discuss Lady Macbeth’s sleepwalking scene in Act V.
• Explore how Lady Macbeth and Lady Macduff’s views on family.
• Explore the reasons that lead Macbeth to fail.
• Compare and contrast the characters of Macbeth, Macduff, and Banquo.
• Examine and discuss the different roles Macbeth plays in the drama.
• Discuss the importance of Banquo as a dead character.
• Examine how Shakespeare characterizes the fantastical and grotesque witches.
• Examine and discuss the contributions King Duncan makes to the play.
• Identify instances when Shakespeare uses elision.
• Examine and discuss the theme of equivocation in the play.
• Discuss crime and punishment in the play.
• Explore the question of insanity as it relates to Macbeth and Lady Macbeth.
• Examine and discuss the role kinship plays in Macbeth.
• Explore the theme of morality in Macbeth.
• Select two minor characters and examine their contributions to the play.
• Examine and discuss Macbeth’s mental deterioration throughout the play.
• Discuss the witches’ prediction and influence on Banquo’s actions.
• Explore the reasons why Macbeth needs to have Banquo killed.
• Examine what Shakespeare sets up in Act 1 that remains important throughout.
• Identify the main literary devices in Macbeth.
• Examine and discuss Macbeth’s speech after learns about his wife’s death.
• Describe the role that the supernatural plays in Macbeth.
• Examine how Shakespeare takes freedom altering the sources of his plays.
• Describe the changes Macbeth undergoes from the start to the finish of the play.
• Explain how Shakespeare uses Macbeth themes in other plays.

In Depth Macbeth Essay Topics

As students start to get the hang of thinking critically and researching sources for evidence and examples, they may want to challenge themselves with the following interesting Macbeth essay questions:

• Is Macbeth a moral play or a historical interpretation?
• How does Shakespeare use the imagery of disease in the play?
• How does Macbeth portray evil as a perversion of human nature?
• How does overthrowing Macbeth help “heal” Scotland?
• How do the feelings of Macbeth change as he becomes eviler?
• How does Shakespeare use imagery of light and darkness in Macbeth?
• How does Macbeth have to go against his nature to kill King Duncan?
• How did Shakespeare use real life to inspire the tragedy in the story?
• What evidence do we have that Malcolm cares about his people?
• Should Macbeth’s fate be considered a self-fulfilling prophecy?
• How does Shakespeare deal with fate and destiny?
• How has Macbeth become one of the most studied plays despite it being one of the shortest plays Shakespeare wrote?
• How does Macbeth compare to Shakespeare’s other tragedies?
• What do we learn about Macduff’s character after he learns of his wife and children’s deaths?
• How do Macbeth’s rise and fall look similar to dictators of the 20th century?
• What motivates Malcolm and Macduff to foil Macbeth’s reign?
• What evidence is there to support the idea that Macduff and Malcolm save Scotland?
• How did Macbeth’s fear of the witches influence his actions?
• How effective is the fantasy element as a narrative technique?
• What makes Lady Macbeth’s characterization so complicated?
• How does Macbeth’s rise to power lead to self-destruction?
• How do the witches in Macbeth communicate the future for the audience?
• Can Macbeth’s actions be viewed as Machiavellian?
• What role does Lady Macbeth’s pragmatic nature have in the play?
• What impact does the betrayal of human nature have on Lady Macbeth?
• How does Shakespeare withhold information throughout the play to maintain suspense?
• How much does Shakespeare embellish the historical events Macbeth is based on?
• How is Lady Macbeth’s path to darkness similar to that of her husband’s?
• What is Shakespeare trying to say about unchecked power and its effects on men?
• What are some modern Macbeth ideas that we see in politics today?
• How does Macbeth’s inability to distinguish positive and negative uses of power lead to his demise?
• To what extent do Macbeth’s soliloquies make him more sympathetic?
• How does Shakespeare utilize the supernatural in Macbeth differently from other plays?
• Can Macbeth’s abusive use of his power be viewed as an addiction?
• How does blood imagery serve as means for Macbeth to reflect upon his actions?
• How do the witches help the audience focus on the darker and more sinister aspects of Macbeth?
• Should one hold Lady Macbeth guilty of King Duncan’s death?
• How does Macbeth’s political ambition align with current examples of political greed?
• How does Shakespeare present Macduff as a good man?
• How do the witches shape Macbeth’s future by telling him their predictions?
• How does Shakespeare deal with themes of power and corruption?
• In what ways is Lady Macbeth even more bloodthirsty than her husband?
• What does Shakespeare’s play show us about Scottish society in Macbeth’s time?
• How does evil spread in Macbeth and across Scotland like a sickness?
• What are some recent controversial Macbeth essay titles?

Interesting Macbeth Writing Prompts

If you need a good Macbeth essay topic, you might want to consider some of the ideas we have provided below. They cover a wide range of areas and can be modified to fit any type of assignment:

• To what extent does the drama’s setting in Scotland help advance the plot?
• How does Shakespeare create sympathy for Macbeth?
• How does Shakespeare use figurative language differently in Macbeth?
• Do you agree with the belief that Macbeth was mentally unstable from the start?
• Which character in Macbeth deserves the greatest punishment?
• How is the punishment of female rebellion presented in Macbeth?
• What is the history surrounding calling Macbeth the “Scottish Play”?
• Is Macbeth a moral play or a revenge play?
• How can human nature in Macbeth be linked to that of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde?
• Can Lady Macbeth’s actions be seen as modern feminism?
• Is Macbeth’s villainy too great that he could not be seen as a tragic hero?
• Why did Shakespeare incorporate the three witches in the play?
• What are Lady Macbeth’s strengths and weaknesses?
• In what ways does Lady Macduff act as a foil to Lady Macbeth?
• How does the sleepwalking scene realize a side of Lady Macbeth we learned about earlier?
• Do you agree with the opinion that Banquo and Macduff are the same person?
• What does the play reveal about Shakespeare’s knowledge of psychology?
• How do contrasts create a recurring motif that appears throughout the play?
• What contributions does King Duncan make to the development of the plot?
• Does Shakespeare mean to suggest that love could lead to evil and self-destruction?
• Can Macbeth be read as a psychological study of self-destructive behaviors?
• How does the use of the supernatural affect the theatrical effect of the play?
• How do the relationships between King Duncan’s generals foretell their disputes?
• What insights into human nature does Shakespeare provide us in the play?
• How are contrasts revealed in the play through symbolism and characterization?
• How is the love between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth presented in the play?
• How was Lady Macbeth involved with the murder of King Duncan?
• How does Shakespeare get the audience to respond to Lady Macbeth’s character?
• Is Macbeth a victim of the witches’ misleading prophecies?
• How is the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth a factor in their demise?
• How do Macbeth’s internal conflicts affect the progression of the play?
• How does Banquo serve as a foil to Macbeth?
• Are the minor characters in Macbeth as important as the major characters?
• How did superstition build around the play’s name and performance?
• What dramatic techniques does Shakespeare use to imply that Macbeth is not in control?
• What happens when Macbeth’s unchecked ambition gets out of control?
• How accurately have film versions of Macbeth portrayed his character?
• How are rational and irrational actions portrayed in the play?
• In what ways are Shakespeare’s King Lear and Macbeth different?
• What purpose does the banquet scene play in Macbeth?
• How does Shakespeare explore gender roles in Macbeth?
• What character flaws do we learn about Macbeth in Act 1?
• How does King Duncan respond differently to each of his generals?
• How do the characters in the play resemble real-life historical figures?
• How do Macbeth and Lady Macbeth’s characters develop throughout the play?

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William Shakespeare

• Literature Notes
• Major Themes
• Macbeth at a Glance
• Play Summary
• About Macbeth
• Character List
• Summary and Analysis
• Act I: Scene 1
• Act I: Scene 2
• Act I: Scene 3
• Act I: Scene 4
• Act I: Scene 5
• Act I: Scene 6
• Act I: Scene 7
• Act II: Scene 1
• Act II: Scene 2
• Act II: Scene 3
• Act II: Scene 4
• Act III: Scene 1
• Act III: Scene 2
• Act III: Scene 3
• Act III: Scene 4
• Act III: Scene 5
• Act III: Scene 6
• Act IV: Scene 1
• Act IV: Scene 2
• Act IV: Scene 3
• Act V: Scene 1
• Act V: Scene 2
• Act V: Scene 3
• Act V: Scene 4
• Act V: Scene 5
• Act V: Scene 6
• Act V: Scene 7
• Act V: Scene 8
• Act V: Scene 9
• Character Analysis
• Lady Macbeth
• Character Map
• William Shakespeare Biography
• Critical Essays
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• Cite this Literature Note

Critical Essays Major Themes

The Fall of Man

The ancient Greek notion of tragedy concerned the fall of a great man, such as a king, from a position of superiority to a position of humility on account of his ambitious pride, or hubris . To the Greeks, such arrogance in human behavior was punishable by terrible vengeance. The tragic hero was to be pitied in his fallen plight but not necessarily forgiven: Greek tragedy frequently has a bleak outcome. Christian drama, on the other hand, always offers a ray of hope; hence, Macbeth ends with the coronation of Malcolm , a new leader who exhibits all the correct virtues for a king.

Macbeth exhibits elements that reflect the greatest Christian tragedy of all: the Fall of Man. In the Genesis story, it is the weakness of Adam, persuaded by his wife (who has in turn been seduced by the devil) which leads him to the proud assumption that he can "play God." But both stories offer room for hope: Christ will come to save mankind precisely because mankind has made the wrong choice through his own free will. In Christian terms, although Macbeth has acted tyrannically, criminally, and sinfully, he is not entirely beyond redemption in heaven.

Fortune, Fate, and Free Will

Fortune is another word for chance. The ancient view of human affairs frequently referred to the "Wheel of Fortune," according to which human life was something of a lottery. One could rise to the top of the wheel and enjoy the benefits of superiority, but only for a while. With an unpredictable swing up or down, one could equally easily crash to the base of the wheel.

Fate, on the other hand, is fixed. In a fatalistic universe, the length and outcome of one's life (destiny) is predetermined by external forces. In Macbeth, the Witches represent this influence. The play makes an important distinction: Fate may dictate what will be, but how that destiny comes about is a matter of chance (and, in a Christian world such as Macbeth's) of man's own choice or free will.

Although Macbeth is told he will become king, he is not told how to achieve the position of king: that much is up to him. We cannot blame him for becoming king (it is his Destiny), but we can blame him for the way in which he chooses to get there (by his own free will).

Kingship and Natural Order

Macbeth is set in a society in which the notion of honor to one's word and loyalty to one's superiors is absolute. At the top of this hierarchy is the king, God's representative on Earth. Other relationships also depend on loyalty: comradeship in warfare, hospitality of host towards guest, and the loyalty between husband and wife. In this play, all these basic societal relationships are perverted or broken. Lady Macbeth's domination over her husband, Macbeth's treacherous act of regicide, and his destruction of comradely and family bonds, all go against the natural order of things.

The medieval and renaissance view of the world saw a relationship between order on earth, the so-called microcosm , and order on the larger scale of the universe, or macrocosm. Thus, when Lennox and the Old Man talk of the terrifying alteration in the natural order of the universe — tempests, earthquakes, darkness at noon, and so on — these are all reflections of the breakage of the natural order that Macbeth has brought about in his own microcosmic world.

Disruption of Nature

Violent disruptions in nature — tempests, earthquakes, darkness at noon, and so on — parallel the unnatural and disruptive death of the monarch Duncan.

The medieval and renaissance view of the world saw a relationship between order on earth, the so-called microcosm, and order on the larger scale of the universe, or macrocosm. Thus, when Lennox and the Old Man talk of the terrifying alteration in the natural order of the universe (nature), these are all reflections of the breakage of the natural order that Macbeth has brought about in his own microcosmic world (society).

Many critics see the parallel between Duncan's death and disorder in nature as an affirmation of the divine right theory of kingship. As we witness in the play, Macbeth's murder of Duncan and his continued tyranny extends the disorder of the entire country.

Gender Roles

Lady Macbeth is the focus of much of the exploration of gender roles in the play. As Lady Macbeth propels her husband toward committing Duncan's murder, she indicates that she must take on masculine characteristics. Her most famous speech — located in Act I, Scene 5 — addresses this issue.

Clearly, gender is out of its traditional order. This disruption of gender roles is also presented through Lady Macbeth's usurpation of the dominate role in the Macbeth's marriage; on many occasions, she rules her husband and dictates his actions.

Reason Versus Passion

During their debates over which course of action to take, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth use different persuasive strategies. Their differences can easily be seen as part of a thematic study of gender roles. However, in truth, the difference in ways Macbeth and Lady Macbeth rationalize their actions is essential to understanding the subtle nuances of the play as a whole.

Macbeth is very rational, contemplating the consequences and implications of his actions. He recognizes the political, ethical, and religious reason why he should not commit regicide. In addition to jeopardizing his afterlife, Macbeth notes that regicide is a violation of Duncan's "double trust" that stems from Macbeth's bonds as a kinsman and as a subject.

On the other hand, Lady Macbeth has a more passionate way of examining the pros and cons of killing Duncan. She is motivated by her feelings and uses emotional arguments to persuade her husband to commit the evil act.

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Essay Samples on Macbeth

Why is macbeth a tragic hero in shakespeare's play.

Shakespeare's timeless play "Macbeth" introduces us to a character whose downfall is both captivating and tragic. Macbeth, the protagonist, has intrigued audiences for centuries with his complex journey from a noble warrior to a tormented villain. In this essay, we will delve into the reasons...

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How is Macbeth a Tragic Hero: Exploring Shakespeare's Masterpiece

Unveiling the layers of Shakespeare's iconic tragedy, the character of Macbeth stands as a quintessential example of a tragic hero. To answer "how is Macbeth a tragic hero?", in this essay we will delve into the depths of his character, motivations, and the unfolding events...

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The Tragedy of Macbeth Ambition by William Shakespeare

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• Macbeth Power

How Shakespeare Presents Ambition in Macbeth

Shakespeare doesn't portray Macbeth as inherently ambitious, but as a tragic hero. He lacks bloodlust yet develops vaulting ambition via metaphysical aid, which leads to an unholy regicide and a tyrannous rule foreseen by the witches.In Macbeth Act 1;5 Lady Macbeth speculates about Macbeth's letter on the prophecies...

• William Shakespeare

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Fair Is Foul And Foul Is Fair In Macbeth And Lord Of The Flies

Life is really hard when fear controls a human being. Fear is very consuming to one's self. Jack Merridew from Lord of the Flies and Macbeth from Macbeth both entered lives that tests their ego and their mental capabilities. “Fair is foul and foul is...

• Lord of The Flies

Portrayal Of Characters With Animal Imagery In Macbeth

The play Macbeth was written in 1606 by famous playwright William Shakespeare. It is the story of murder and usurper. The storyline went from crime to crime to finally reach the security of the throne. The historical context is about King James the 1st. He...

• Imagery in Literature

The Use Of Sensory Imagery In Macbeth

Over history, psychological distress has and will always be significant. Shakespeare brings to the audience's attention all the problems that his generation failed to notice. Since hearing the witches’ prophecies, Macbeth finds himself in a predicament trying to fulfill the prediction of him becoming Thane...

Themes Of Power And Ambition In Macbeth 

Ambition is a powerful urge to do or to accomplish something, commonly requiring assurance and diligent work. In Williams Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the characters Lady Macbeth and Macbeth want to gain the position of authority and they are focused to do anything to accomplish this objective....

Overwhelming Ambition Of Macbeth Character

Ambition can force a naturally virtuous man to be enveloped by evil. Macbeth, from William Shakespeare’s play, Macbeth, began as a courageous Scottish general who fought for King Duncan with no mercy. But once the witches lured Macbeth with the possibilities of his prophecies, ambition...

Role Of Ambitions In Our Life

Ambition fills a man with eagerness. Once it is discovered in one’s mind, it demands to be acted upon. Shakespeare’s Macbeth is a tale of a fight between men’s instinct and their love for hierarchical order. The play portrays various levels and dimensions of ambition...

The Definition Of Fate And Free Will In Macbeth

Throughout time, it has been believed that fate has the power to forge one’s destiny. On the other hand though, I believe these choices can defy fate and that fate only manipulates one's mind into choosing their own path. In the play Macbeth, Shakespeare messes...

The Theme Of Fate And Free Will In Macbeth By William Shakespeare

All through the ages it is believed fate, by some wild power, has the ability to manufacture one's fate. The result of an individual's decisions is constrained by the manner by which they are destined to happen. In any case, some accept these decisions can...

Analysis of the Character of Lady Macbeth from the Shakespeare's Play

In the play, Lady Macbeth is the wife of the protagonist Macbeth and one of the most powerful presences of a female character in literature. She is introduced to us in the play reading a letter from her husband who calls her his “dearest partner...

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Similarities in Suspence Between The Monkey’s Paw by W.W Jacobs and Macbeth by William Shakespeare

The short story The Monkey’s Paw by W.W Jacobs and the tragic play Macbeth by William Shakespeare both share many similarities in terms of suspense and tension. In the two stories, both the protagonists are consumed by greed which causes them to make irrational decisions...

Gothic Features in Shakespeare's Macbeth

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Macbeth An Iconic Hero Tragic Hero

Throughout Macbeth Macbeth transforms from a respected Noble into a tyrannous ruler that is ultimately defeated by his own hubris. The play tells the classic tale of a tragic hero by giving macbeth a fatal flaw and excessive pride as well as a moment in...

The Destructive Nature of Revenge in Shakespeare's "Macbeth"

The play Macbeth by William Shakespeare delves into the theme of revenge and its impact on the characters, particularly Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, and Macduff. The story shows how revenge serves as a powerful motivator that ultimately leads to tragic consequences. This essay aims to explore...

Macbeth: A Warning of Consequences of Unchecked Ambition

Ambition, as defined as the desire to accomplish a task or reach a goal, is often times seen as desirable due to the sentiment that this trait would allow for more productivity and an increased quality of life. However, as all constructs in the universe...

Shakespeare’s Play Macbeth: The Dark Side of Ambition

Ambition is often seen as a very admirable trait, with it frequently being associated with drive and hard work in order to accomplish a lofty goal. However, it is very possible for someone to have too much ambition. Too much ambition can result in corrosive...

Being Possessed by Ambition: The Tragedy of Macbeth

In Macbeth, Shakespeare uses Macbeth’s tragic fate to show the danger of extreme ambition when that ambition causes people to use deceit and treachery to further their own goals. Ambition, in itself, is not harmful, but untempered ambition has a corrupting influence. Shakespeare illustrates this...

The Horrifying Power of Unchecked Ambition: The Downfall of Macbeth

Ambition is an important aspect of every human being. Sometimes it makes people succeed, but when ambition becomes unchecked, it leads to tragedy even for a great man. William Shakespeare develops the theme of ambition in his play Macbeth. At the beginning of the play,...

Reader's Perspective of the Literary Works

A reader’s perspective of a literary piece is a major component of a writer’s success. A writer uses hidden messages or symbols beneath the morals of the story to allow for the imagination of the audience to be explored. In the play Macbeth, William Shakespeare...

• Perspective

Presence of Elizabethan Tragedy in Shakespeare's Macbeth

The tragedy of “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare, was written in the early 1600s. Many people debate whether this play is an Aristotelian tragedy or an Elizabethan tragedy. The main components that are included within an Aristotelian tragedy involve, fate and free will impacting the character’s...

• Literature Review

Battle of Good and Evil in Macbeth and Faustus

The conflict between good and evil is a common theme explored in British literature. Two works of literature that reflect this binary between good and evil are Doctor Faustus, written by Christopher Marlowe, and Macbeth, written by Shakespeare. Every day, a person is faced with...

Satan as a Hero in Paradise Lost

Literary heroism typically refers to a character being admired for their courage, achievements or noble qualities. However, there are many interpretations of what a hero can be defined as depending on the context. In Milton’s Paradise Lost, the character of Satan tends to be pigeonholed...

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Macbeth: The Power of Influence and Manipulation

Life Changing Decisions The definition of influence is the power to have an important effect on someone or something. Guilt is a feeling that can haunt the conscience, make one feel excessive remorse and in extreme conditions suffer from mental health issues. The play Macbeth,...

Depiction of Evil in Shakespear's Macbeth

This essay is going to explore how Shakespeare creates a mood of evil through the characters, scenes and language and examines how the audience at that time may have been affected and how they reacted to this tragedy, Macbeth, set in Scotland in 1040. Macbeth...

Macbeth: Mental Illness in Shakespeare's Play

Shakespeare’s play, Macbeth, follows the story of a once loyal servant to the King, who was appointed General of the army and was honoured and commended for his services. In the play, Macbeth doesn’t react to this fondly, and instead grew a stronger desire for...

Manipulation and Uncontrolled Ambition in Shakespeare's Macbeth

Macbeth is a play about uncontrolled ambition. Ambition is a strong desire to successfully achieve more in terms of status, possessions or power. It may be motivated by need, greed or vanity. It requires much inner discipline and inner strength, and the drive to be...

“To Be Or Not To Be?” How Relevant Is Shakespeare

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Costume Design in Macbeth

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Analysis Of Act Two Scene One Of Shakespeare's Macbeth

Macbeth, also known as ‘’The Tragedy of Macbeth’’ is a play by William Shakespeare. It was performed for the first time around the early 1600’s. Shakespeare was born in 1564. His family a part of the middle-income group and they were a successful glove-maker. He...

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Best topics on Macbeth

1. Why Is Macbeth a Tragic Hero in Shakespeare’s Play

2. How is Macbeth a Tragic Hero: Exploring Shakespeare’s Masterpiece

3. The Characterisation of Lady Macbeth in Shakespeare’s Drama

4. The Tragedy of Macbeth Ambition by William Shakespeare

5. How Shakespeare Presents Ambition in Macbeth

6. Fair Is Foul And Foul Is Fair In Macbeth And Lord Of The Flies

7. Portrayal Of Characters With Animal Imagery In Macbeth

8. The Use Of Sensory Imagery In Macbeth

9. Themes Of Power And Ambition In Macbeth 

10. Overwhelming Ambition Of Macbeth Character

11. Role Of Ambitions In Our Life

12. The Definition Of Fate And Free Will In Macbeth

13. The Theme Of Fate And Free Will In Macbeth By William Shakespeare

14. Analysis of the Character of Lady Macbeth from the Shakespeare’s Play

15. Similarities in Suspence Between The Monkey’s Paw by W.W Jacobs and Macbeth by William Shakespeare

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Macbeth Essay Topics

More than four centuries of every generation going through Shakespeare tragedies - reading, performing his masterpieces on the stage, making movie adaptations, and cultivating these heroes and villains into the modern culture. Schools and colleges programs include Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, and Othello all over the world.

The figure of William Shakespeare is possibly the most mysterious in the history of literature. There is even a theory that a man such as him did not exist at all. 90% of his biography comprises myths and only 10% - the verity. The theories are different, and the craziest one says he is an alien from another planet.

Are you interested enough to start reading one of his books right now, or go over them if you're already familiar with his work?

What book of his would you pick up first? The most famous and tragic true love story, or the one of breathtaking and killing jealousy, or tales about kings and queens, fights to the death, bloody revenge, and lust for power? You will be deeply impressed by each play, whichever one you choose. Yet the creation of the Bard that we will be talking about is unique. It is riddled with mystery and enigmas and shows the darkest sides of the human soul - the tragedy "Macbeth" by Shakespeare.

This story tells about the great warrior, a diligent and patriotic knight. He is loyal to his country and his king, but a vicious omen plants the seed of treason in his mind, pushing him to bring this omen into reality. The tragedy in Shakespeare's Macbeth shows how the soul can be separated into two opposite fighting parts.

He can't find serenity anywhere. Virtually nobody can help him, and those who could and should, like his beloved wife, only bedevil his spirit even more.

When he still hesitates with carrying out his evil intentions, his wife Lady Macbeth releases all the wicked thoughts and prompts his husband to commit treason. When all is done, he fully transforms into an insane and obsessed murderer, performing more and more terrifying acts, afraid of the prediction coming true.

The inner battle of the main character is just as epic and wrecking as the final fight of the story.

The author brings up many things people can relate to: he shows suffering from guilt and obsession, the value of trust, the hunger for power. Even more, he indicates how destructive all these feelings can be. The tragedy of the Scottish King can send your mind onto a pondering journey - was this play just about murder and magic? Is there something else, hidden and woven into the words? There are so many possible questions on this topic that you can come up with, so many essay topics for Macbeth for you to delve into!

The List of Essay Topics on Macbeth

• Ideological originality and specificity of a conflict in the play "Macbeth."
• What causes the struggle between the member of society and an individual?
• Compare and contrast of the Macbeth and Hamlet's internal dispute.
• The mission of the supernatural forces - witches and their role in the plot.
• What are the meaning and purpose of nature in the tragedy?
• Why is there a superstition in the theater world about saying the name of the play out loud?
• Features of Renaissance age and specificity of the artistic manner of tragedy.
• Macbeth as the summarizing of the historical chronic period in Shakespeare work.
• Contrast the personality of Richard III and Macbeth, what are the main differences?
• Why does the author call evil the goodness and good the evil?
• Compare and contrast the characters of King Lear and the Scottish King.
• The analysis of the clash of good and evil in the tragedy.
• The Lady Macbeth Effect and its place in modern-day psychology.
• An incarnation of evil in the Scottish Lady's actions.
• The process of converting from an honorable soldier into the obsessed tyrant.
• Whether to consider Macbeth a reflection of the historical reality of those times?
• Women in the play: their power and influence.
• Argue that Macbeth's behavior is evil, criminal, and antimoral.
• Which characters in the tragedy are opposite to the main hero and why?
• Describe and contrast Macbeth and Macduff from the revenge point of view.
• Which possible questions would you ask Lady Macbeth if you could?
• What are the primary motivations and end-goals of Lady Macbeth?
• Compare Macbeth's death to the other Shakespeare's characters death.
• Lust of power and ambitions as the moving force of the drama.
• The indicators of Machiavellianism in the play.
• Innovative writing instruments which the author uses for the storytelling in the tragedy.
• Analysis and interpretation of the main witch's message about the death of the king.
• Does the movie of Justin Kurzel disclose all the topics that make Macbeth problematic?

This is not an exhaustive list of possible questions and topics, but it contains the most interesting and challenging ones. Don't forget about the real historical period when the play was written; it will help you understand all political and individual dilemmas of characters.

It would also be good to learn more about Shakespeare as an author, his style and writing methods, read more of his works and try to analyze them. You will draw a lot of connections between different plays and learn how to solve riddles and puzzles. Uncover the real truth behind the mystery created by the Great Bard! Of course, don't forget to watch the movie adaptations, especially the last one from Justin Kurzel, if you are more of a visual than an imaginative person. It can be much easier to catch the mood of the story while watching it. Use these themes and hints to write a spectacular essay and become a modern-day Shakespeare!

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75 Macbeth Essay Topics

Published by Denis on April 21, 2021 April 21, 2021

Shakespeare’s Macbeth is an all-time popular English classic tragedy spawning contemporary iterations in theater and film. This tragedy by the great English playwright is an introspection of fundamental human relationships and the roles of base desires in influencing these relationships. Writing Macbeth essay topics is an exercise in looking at human flaws.

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How to write a Macbeth essay

Read and understand the play’s plot, character, and stage setting. What motivates the characters, and what are the circumstances of that period? Getting a good insight into different characters explains their motivations and actions.

In order to write a winning Macbeth essay, you must have an outline before you get started. Well, this applies to all other essay types and must not be left out when working on this essay. The outline should have an introduction, body, and conclusion. In the introduction of a Macbeth essay, you should clearly state why you have picked a specific topic. In the introduction, you are also required to make a statement of what you intend to achieve with the essay.

The body should explain your ideas, and you need to work thoroughly on it. How you write your conclusion plays a vital role in the success of your essay. Ensure that your conclusion is short and precise.

Read this  Macbeth essay example  and use ideas from this essay sample to form the focus of your writing assignment. You can see what has not been explored adequately and what you can improve on with a good literature review. When writing, you can ask a peer to critique your work at several intervals to polish it.

If you are stuck with your Macbeth essay you can always request for “ do my english homework for me ” and you will get help online from a reputable service like Gudwriter.

Suggested topics for a Macbeth essay

• An Opinion That Lady Macbeth Is Far Worse Than Macbeth in the Play Macbeth
• Macbeth and Lady Macbeth: The Reactions and Judgments of Each Other
• An Analysis of the Scenes and the Changes of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth
• The Role of Witches in Macbeth
• The Development of Macbeth’s Character
• Lady Macbeth Character Analysis
• The Theme of Guilt Horror and Macbeth
• Differences and Similarities Between The Little Shop of Horrors and Macbeth
• The theme of Appearance and Reality in Macbeth
• Blood Symbolism in “Macbeth”
• The Character Changes of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth
• An Analysis of Character Lady Macbeth in the Play Macbeth
• Who Between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth is Most Responsible for Bloodshed in “Macbeth”
• The Influence of Lady Macbeth on the Downfall of Macbeth
• An Analysis of Macbeth Decisions in Macbeth
• Lady Macbeth as a Catalyst in Lord Macbeth’s Evildoings in the Play “Macbeth”
• An Analysis of Why Macbeth Is More Guilty Compared to Lady Macbeth
• An Analysis of Macbeth Show on How Macbeth and Lady Macbeth Have to Go Against Their Natures
• The Differences between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in the Novel
• An Opinion That Lady Macbeth Is Worse Than Macbeth in the Plat “Macbeth”
• A Description of Lady Macbeth Being Far Worse Than Macbeth
• An Analysis of the Relationship Between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in the Play “Macbeth”
• A Description of Lady Macbeth Being Worse Than Macbeth
• The Relationship Between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in “Macbeth”
• arts and humanities
• An Opinion That Macbeth is Guiltier Than Lady Macbeth in the Play “Macbeth”
• An Analysis of the Interesting Relationship Between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth
• An Analysis of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, Referred To as Malcolm
• Love: The Concepts of the Relationship Between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth
• The Tragedy of Macbeth
• An Analysis of the Tragic Heroism of Macbeth in a Play by William Shakespeare
• The Changes That Occurred Through the Play “Macbeth”
• A Role of Two Theories in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• An Analysis of the Character Lady Macbeth, a Play by William Shakespeare
• The Character of the Tragic Hero in Macbeth by William Shakespeare
• The Use of Comparison and Contrast in Macbeth by William Shakespeare
• An Essay on the Downfall of Macbeth
• Factors Contributing to the Degeneration of Macbeth’s Character
• Macbeth as a Killer in the Play Macbeth by William Shakespeare
• A Virtuous Man Corrupted by Greed and Power in Macbeth by William Shakespeare
• An Analysis of the Lady Macbeth and Macbeth, a Play by William Shakespeare
• The Changes in the Characters in the Play, Macbeth by William Shakespeare
• Comparing and Contrasting Shakespeare’s Characters in Macbeth
• An Analysis of Contrast, Atmosphere, Language, Images, Symbols, and Dramatic Interpretations
• A Literary Analysis of the Character Lady Macbeth in Macbeth by William Shakespeare
• The Changes in Macbeth’s Character Throughout the Play
• The Changes in the Emotions of Lady Macbeth in the Play “Macbeth”
• The Control of Lady Macbeth Over Macbeth
• An Analysis of Macbeth’s Blind Ambition Role From Good to Evil
• An Analysis of Macbeth by William Shakespeare
• The Relation Between Lady Macbeth and Evil in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth “
• An Argument That Macbeth Is Not a Victim of Fate
• An Analysis of the Tragic Ending of an Ambitious, Courageous and Moral Coward Man’s Life in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• An Analysis of the Feeling Towards Macbeth and Reaction To the End of the Play Which Differ Amongst Readers
• An Analysis of Macbeth A Tragic Hero Who Through No Fault of His Own Follows a Path of Evil
• The Combination of the Influence of Witches and That of Lady Macbeth in the Tragedy “Macbeth”
• An Analysis of the Victim, Macbeth in Shakespeare’s Macbeth
• A Comparison of Macbeth Family Members in Macbeth, a Play by William Shakespeare
• An Analysis of the Changing Character of Macbeth As A Husband and King in “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare
• Contrasting Macbeth with Three Other Characters in Shakespeare’s Play
• An Analysis of the Uncontrolled Ambition in the Downfall of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth
• An Analysis of the Theme of Ambition in Macbeth by William Shakespeare
• An Analysis of Act I of William Shakespeare’s Macbeth
• The Many Supernatural Scenes in the Play “Macbeth”
• The Portrayal of the Power of Evil in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
• The Flaw of Ambition in William Shakespeare’s Play Macbeth
• A Review of The Tragedy of Macbeth by William Shakespeare
• Development of the Characters of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in Macbeth by Shakespeare

How to pick a topic for a Macbeth essay

• Fresh insight topic – Is there a topic you feel raises a fresh perspective into the play’s characters? Human character flaws, for example, are limitless in exploration, and you can write on it. Peek into the numerous Macbeth-themed topics from our free to use essay topic generator .

• Build on other work – Pick on one of the familiar topics, e.g., analyze Lady Macbeth’s greed, and work on it. Add fresh material to enrich the present literature.

Learn how to write an exloratory essay in the best way possible.

Working on Shakespeare’s work is enjoyable and challenging; it is much written about that you must dig deep to present fresh details for Shakespeare fans. But writing on one of Macbeth essay topics will undoubtedly raise your appreciation for classic English literature.

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Macbeth — Fate And Destiny In Shakespeare’s Macbeth

Fate and Destiny in Shakespeare’s Macbeth

• Categories: Macbeth

About this sample

Words: 991 |

Published: Feb 8, 2022

Words: 991 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Table of contents

The intricate interplay of fate and destiny in "macbeth", final thoughts, works cited.

• Shakespeare, W. (2015). Macbeth. Simon and Schuster.
• Bloom, H. (Ed.). (2008). Macbeth (Modern Critical Interpretations). Infobase Publishing.
• Kranz, D. (2016). A Companion to Shakespeare's Works: The Tragedies. John Wiley & Sons.
• Bevington, D. (2014). Macbeth (Second Edition) (The Arden Shakespeare Third Series). Bloomsbury Arden Shakespeare.
• Niederkorn, W. S. (2015). Shakespeare: The Tragedies. Pearson.
• Fischlin, D., & Fortier, M. (2017). Macbeth: Language and Writing (Arden Student Skills: Language and Writing). Bloomsbury Arden Shakespeare.
• McEachern, C. (2016). Macbeth: A Critical Reader (Arden Early Modern Drama Guides). Bloomsbury Arden Shakespeare.
• Jackson, R. (2018). Shakespeare and Domestic Life: A Dictionary. ABC-CLIO.
• Montrose, L. A. (2016). The Purpose of Playing: Shakespeare and the Cultural Politics of the Elizabethan Theatre. University of Chicago Press.
• Moulton, C. E. (2018). Shakespeare as Literary Dramatist. Routledge.

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Macbeth Essay Thesis Statements, Titles, and Topics

Post your thesis statements by March 25th, along with tentative titles and questions about essay topics. The essay prompt has been posted to Blackboard and you will also submit the final draft of your essay to Blackboard by Friday, April 3rd.

29 thoughts on “ Macbeth Essay Thesis Statements, Titles, and Topics ”

For my thesis, I would like to explore and analyze Lady Macbeth’s character and the development of her character throughout the play. I was thinking of looking into whether her development was largely influenced by Macbeth’s prophecy or if her character was the one to influence how Macbeth’s prophecy came to be. I’m having trouble wording if but I have a thesis to work from: In this essay, I will analyze Lady Macbeth’s character progression and whether or not a connection exists to Macbeth’s prophecy.

Kyla, go for it! I think you should focus on Lady Macbeth’s monologues in Act One, Scene Five and Act Five, Scene One.

Can I get Your thesis

Potential thesis: Although many blame the witches and their prophecies for Macbeth’s ill fate, it is actually his own fault. If Macbeth did not believe the witches’ prophecies, he probably wouldn’t have tried to control his “fate” which ended as a tragedy.

This is a great thesis and opens a lot of pathways for interpretation. You’ll have to explain why you put “fate” in scare quotes, as it suggests that you don’t believe fate is a major factor in the play. If you can do that, you’ll likely produce a lively discussion. Look to the debate on free will between Martin Luther and Erasmus in the “Contexts” section of the Norton Critical Edition.

I was thinking about using the idea of tyranny and masculinity for my thesis, such as other thanes or princes want to overthrow MacBeth because they felt that he was acting tyrannical. Lady MacBeth says she wants to unsex herself when she decides to kill Duncan and Malcolm tells MacDuff that he is “unknown to woman, never was forsworn” so it seems that being a man reinforces the right to kill someone. A rough thesis would be: MacBeth is right to be overthrown because he is acting tyrannical, and Malcolm will be a better king because he’s the son of King Duncan and he’s more manly than MacBeth.

Petvy, I think you’re onto something with the problem of tyranny in Macbeth. It’s not immediately clear how you could tie that in with the distortions of maculinity in the play in only four to five pages, so I’d suggest focusing on either tyranny or masculinity (or its corruption). In either case, you have to talk about why Macbeth becomes a tyrant: it has a lot to do with the ways he interprets the prophecies from the witches, who represent (along with Lady Macbeth) grotesque distortions of femininity.

Macbeth’s actions throughout the play are an example of a self-fulfilling prophecy. He believes what the witches tell him about his fate and becomes intoxicated by the possibility of achieving power, which is the reason he commits all those evil acts and pays the ultimate price for it in the end, not because he is simply fulfilling his destiny.

This is promising, Ilya! Pick two or three scenes to focus on in your reading of Macbeth’s response to the prophecies.

Throughout the novel, there are many symbols used to depict evil. Light and darkness are amongst the most common ways to show that light is good and dark is bad. In a more analytical approach, we can see that without the light Macbeth is in the dark for too long and causes him to become blind to goodness. From the beginning, all that has been described to be dark or involved in darkness have affected Macbeth into becoming corrupt and mad, such as the ‘midnight’ witches and the absence of the candles that Lady Macbeth so persistently carried towards the end. A working thesis for me would be how the use of light and darkness ultimately affected/foreshadowed that Macbeth would become corrupted and even guilty for the actions he had taken.

Karyna, it’s important to remember that a novel is a certain genre of writing. Macbeth is a play. Jane Austen’s Emma (which we’ll read in a few weeks) is a novel.

Classifications aside, the light/dark theme in the play is a big topic with lots to think about. Can you narrow it down to certain things that happen in light versus in darkness? For instance, Macbeth worries that he’ll never be able to sleep soundly again after he murders Duncan. Is there something to be said about the imagery juxtaposing darkness with sleeplessness brought on by guilt?

Possible Thesis:

Darkness, concerning dusk, exceeds its function as a mere setting characteristic by acting as a symbol of foreboding. Approaching darkness (nightfall) mentioned as a setting descriptor is often followed by nefarious or immoral actions, such as murder.

I am most likely going to change the topic I’m writing on. If I’m unable to fully rationalize my thoughts for the other topic I had in mind, I’ll fall back onto this original thesis.

Cory, try and find a few passages where a character describes or reacts to the darkness. I’m wondering if the Porter might be a good character to look to. Banquo’s murderers might also be worth discussing. As for major characters, there are plenty who present responses to darkness, especially in Act II. And maybe there’s a parallel between the pervasive darkness in the play and Scotland’s peripheral position in relation to England. Scotland is a grim, wild, foul-weathered place: any parallels between the setting of the play and the qualities of darkness espoused in it?

The circumstances that surround Macbeth’s rise to power allude to an evil power. The witches were written into this play during Shakespeare’s time where hysteria took precedent. Despite Shakespeare’s time being different from Macbeth’s time, there is still an emphasis on morality and what is considered to be a ‘sinful’ act or righteous. The presence of witches and prophecies may have been used to let the audience understand the meteoric rise of Macbeth was not truly ‘good’ or ‘righteous’. The witches are shown to be malevolent, and Macbeth’s association with these otherworldly figures notions towards an unjust claim to power. These allusions to an evil power include the stress on the number 3, which is known to represent evil and unholiness. For example, there are three witches, three roles that Macbeth takes on, and three prophecies.

Sounds great, Chiara! There are some materials in the back of the Norton Critical Edition pertaining to the witches (Hecate in particular). Ian McKellen’s interview might be a good place to start.

In this paper I will argue that Macbeth’s endless ambition overpowers fate and his destiny is brought by his own free will.

Good thesis, Jordan. Discuss the claims about predestination and free will made by Martin Luther and Erasmus. Their essays are in the supplementary materials of the Norton Critical Edition of Macbeth.

Psychology and subjective reality are prominent themes in Macbeth; Banquo’s ghost, the floating dagger, voices, and blood spots are only imagined by Macbeth as he unravels throughout the play. Lady Macbeth’s insomnia and hand-washing shows the psychological effect the murders have had on her. In the end, Lady Macbeth and Macbeth are both perpetrators of their own demise; they actively seek to fulfill Fate and in turn are plagued by their own minds.

Mary, these are great passages to focus on for your thesis. I like the insinuation you’re making here: Macbeth and Lady Macbeth try to manipulate Fate, but all they end up doing–over and over again beginning with the murder of Duncan–is speed up its process.

This is amazing, I am doing something similar to your thesis and took some ideas from yours thank you!

Thesis: Throughout the play, Macbeth’s actions and decisions that he’s made seem to show an underlying sense of fear that fuels them. Fear can be controlling and influential on human beings and can sometimes dictate the path of their lives, all of which can be said for the character of Macbeth. From the witches’ prophecy to the various murders he orchestrates, fear is used as a motivator within Macbeth to commit unspeakable actions and as a result, drove him into losing touch with his sense of sanity and reality, slowly becoming unhinged at the hands of fear.

Very good, Lanz! Highlight passages where a character implies or specifically mentions being afraid (or conversely, feeling courageous).

Potential Thesis Statement: By doing the wrong thing cause of greed, power, and other influences( In this case the witches) can often lead to negative outcomes, bad results, situations to become worse, and anxiety. This is what I’m thinking about using as a thesis statement, but still a little unsure. Sorry for the late response I thought the other Macbeth post was the forumn where I was suppose to write our blog response/thesis for the Macbeth essay originally.

Tayyab, this is an interesting general statement to make in relation to the events of the play, but maybe just focus on Macbeth’s and Lady Macbeth’s responses to the witches’ prophecies. This way, you’ll have a coupe of very specific scenes towards which you can direct your close reading. As a bonus, you don’t have to spend time and energy wondering about the moral of the story. Focus instead on what the characters say and do and how and what these words and actions mean within the world of the play. Look to the supplementary materials in the back of the Norton Critical Edition for more guidance, and let me know if you have further questions.

My thesis will be about self perception and it’s connection to the choice that people believe they are supposed to make. In the case of MacBeth, he heard a prophecy and his self perception changed from being a thane to a king. Really late response but I couldn’t think of anything original til now.

Aiden, reorient your thesis to avoid making generalizations about “people.” Focus only on how self-perception troubles the characters in Macbeth, particularly as it pertains to what certain characters believe about fate versus free choice. Look to the essays by Luther and Erasmus on this topic for guidance.

For my second essay I plan to move forward to investigate Lady Macbeth’s psychosis. There’s much to analyze when it comes to Lady Macbeth’s behavior and speech. However, I’m afraid I’ve chosen a topic that is too big for a four to five-page essay. Should I focus on a specific act or scene for the essay? Additionally, I’m having difficulty wording my thesis. This is what I have so far …

In Macbeth, Lady Macbeth is an unconventional female character, who possesses a dangerous ambitiousness and ruthlessness to help Macbeth become King of Scotland. Her character encourages Macbeth to commit an evil act and unleashes something within hi. As more cruel murders take place, Lady Macbeth becomes unrecognizable through her anxious and erratic behavior.

I feel like I’m not really making a claim but just summarizing her character development in the play. Any suggestions or ideas are greatly welcomed!! Thank you!

Thesis: In Macbeth, his aligned actions had played to his rise and his downfall, which only proved that determinism took control of the entirety of Macbeth’s life and the world around him. 

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How Not to Think Like a Fascist

In his latest book, the prolific British psychoanalyst Adam Phillips promotes curiosity, improvisation and conflict as antidotes to the deadening effects of absolute certainty.

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ON GIVING UP , by Adam Phillips

One of the most arresting things about Adam Phillips’s work is how it resists easy summary, dissolving into a trace memory the moment you try to describe it. Over several decades, in more than 20 books — many of them slim volumes further subdivided into even slimmer essays — Phillips, a British psychoanalyst, sidles up to his subjects, preferring the gentle mode of suggestion to the blunt force of argument. His writing has a way of sneaking up on you, like a subterranean force. An interviewer once described trying to edit his comments as “sculpting with lava.”

Even Phillips’s titles tell us only so much. “Attention Seeking” (2019) sounds as if it’s about something shameful, when in fact, he says, “attention-seeking is one of the best things we do.” In “On Wanting to Change” (2021), he writes about change as an object of both desire and dread; we long for the conclusiveness of a conversion experience, “a change that will finally put a stop to the need for change.”

Phillips, who was formerly a child psychotherapist, likes to play with terms that are capacious, elastic and stubbornly ambiguous. The title of his new book, “On Giving Up,” covers the vast territory between hope and despair. We can give up smoking, sugar or a bad habit; but we can also give up on ourselves. “We give things up when we believe we can change; we give up when we believe we can’t.”

It’s this extreme and despairing definition of “giving up” that we tend to fixate on, to the neglect of what Phillips calls “the other, minor forms of giving up.” When we do think of giving up in this “minor” sense of cessation or withdrawal, it’s something that needs to be justified, because we valorize completion and commitment. But such relentless determination can also be tyrannical. The tragic hero, Phillips says, is someone who is “either unable or unwilling to give up.” Macbeth cannot pause his murderous ambition. He stops sleeping, because “sleep that knits up the ravelled sleeve of care” — or what Phillips calls “restorative giving up” — risks opening the sleeper to other possibilities. And a sense of other possibilities is corrosive to a single-minded determination.

Phillips cites work by Shakespeare, Kafka and Camus. He cites Freud, too — not as an infallible authority but as the incisive interpreter of human ambivalence who nevertheless succumbed to the lure of becoming a “dogmatic essentialist.” Feeling betrayed by the occult ideas of Carl Jung, his onetime disciple, Freud reacted protectively, by hunkering down: “Freud had to declare himself the owner of psychoanalysis and begin a whole disreputable tradition of people who need to tell us what psychoanalysis is, people who claim to know precisely what should be called psychoanalysis, as opposed to going on working out what it might be and what we might want it to be.”

Instead of essentialism, with its pretensions to certainty, Phillips prefers curiosity, “because it tends toward the unknown, and the potentially unknowable.” The unknowable can make us feel vulnerable, which is why we sometimes resist our curiosity; in other words, we give it up. We tamp down its possible dangers with “over-decisiveness” — insisting that we know what we think and we know what we’re doing, when in truth we don’t know much when it comes to either.

Phillips’s looping lines of inquiry strike some of his critics as troubling, exasperating or simply annoying. Joan Acocella wrote that his “linguistic capering” often generated the kind of sentence that makes you say to yourself, “That’s interesting, I’ll think about it later,” and then you return to it and “realize that it’s not true.” The literary critic Elaine Showalter derided his “stylistic one-upmanship.” In a sharp essay for The Guardian, Oliver Eagleton argued that Phillips, with his emphasis on conversation over conviction, offers “liberal bromides” when it comes to politics instead of landing decisively on the side of “meaningful change.”

But eliciting such frustration is perhaps part of the point. “People become real to us by frustrating us,” Phillips wrote in “Missing Out,” as long as they do it by “the right amount.” When they frustrate us too much, they become demons we have to destroy; when they frustrate us too little, they become idealized, impotent and unreal. Phillips doesn’t try to prevent us from thinking whatever it is that we want to think; what he does is repeatedly coax us to ask if that’s what we really believe, and how we can be sure.

This constant questioning is, I think, what Phillips means in his new book by “aliveness,” which he presents as “the true antidote to giving up.” Improvisational and experimental, an enlivened existence “can depend on the vitalizing effects of conflict” and contrasts with what the psychoanalyst Christopher Bollas calls “the fascist state of mind,” which tries to “empty the mind of all opposition.” Such emptying amounts to a willed oblivion, “a desperate and murderous deadening.” Fascism, whether inside the mind or out in the world, resorts to a “simplifying violence.” The fascist finds the give-and-take of conflict unbearable but is enthralled by the annihilation of war.

In interviews, Phillips maintains an insistent uncertainty (“I don’t know the answer to that”; “I’ve got no idea what I’m talking about here”). He says his writing is “reiterative” because everything is always “being worked out” and never “resolved.” Anything especially tricky or charged is ripe for “redescription,” which offers a way of looking at it anew.

The same goes for “giving up.” Does it require renunciation or “destruction”? Can it be redescribed as a matter of “revision” or even “reinclusion”? Or is the term so loaded that we get “distracted by an analogy”? Phillips keeps asking questions, even if answers are contingent and provisional, and ultimately elusive. As he puts it elsewhere in the book, “All we can do, if we are interested, is to ask these questions and see what, if anything, we want to do.”

ON GIVING UP | By Adam Phillips | Farrar, Straus & Giroux | 145 pp. | $26

Jennifer Szalai is the nonfiction book critic for The Times. More about Jennifer Szalai

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