Macbeth's Ambition Analysis

Macbeth’s ambition proves to be his strength and weakness. Macbeth’s ambition is his strength because it allows him to gain power. After finding out he has become Thane of Cawdor, Macbeth considers the witches prophecy. He says “Why do I yield to that suggestion whose horrid image doth unfix my hair/ And make my seated heart knock at my ribs/ Against the use of nature?” (1.3.148-150). Macbeth realizes the possibility of becoming king, and his ambition takes over. He knows the only way to seize power is to kill Duncan, and his ambition causes him to deeply consider this idea. Without this quality, Macbeth would not have a reason to take power, and would never pursue the prophecy. Macbeth’s ambition draws him even closer to power when he returns …show more content…
After murdering Duncan, Macbeth is still not satisfied with his power, and will do everything possible to keep it. Banquo’s sons are prophesied to be king, and he sees that as a threat. He reveals his thoughts to Lady Macbeth and says “We have scorched the snake, not killed it./ She’ll close and be herself whilst our poor malice/ Remains in danger of her former tooth” (3.2.15-17). Macbeth explains that killing Duncan is not enough. He is not content with the idea of taking power for a short period of time and then handing it over to Banquo’s lineage. Banquo is innocent and is not a direct threat to Macbeth’s power, yet his ambition for power drives him to kill Banquo because it cuts off the possibility of his lineage growing. Macbeth’s ambition comes into play again after talking with the witches. They tell Macbeth he has nothing to fear at this moment in time, but his thirst for power takes over and he states “From this moment/ The very firstlings of my heart shall be/ The firstlings of my hand.../The castle of Macduff I will surprise,/ Seize upon Fife, give to th' edge o' th' sword/ His wife, his babes, and all unfortunate souls/ That trace him in his line” (4.1.166-174). Macbeth vows to act on all his emotions going forward. At this moment, he is angry at Macduff, and decides to murder his family. He knows they are innocent, but he does not think his plan through and acts immediately on his anger. Macbeth’s ambition for power consumes him and he kills innocent people in his

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