Macbeth, an Example

When you think of some of Shakespeare’s works, Macbeth is often one that comes to mind; the tragedy that rooted from ambition. To quote Shakespeare himself, “Can one desire too much of a good thing?” In this case, the answer unfortunately is yes.

I feel like it all began when the three witches told Macbeth that he would one day become king. Even though his nature was not naturally inclined to do evil deeds, when King Duncan declared that he would spend the night at Macbeth’s castle, Macbeth decided to take control of his destiny and killed the King during the night. Fears of getting caught soon crept in leading Macbeth to take part in the additional deaths of the guards, Banquo, Lady Macduff and her child. His tyrannical reign soon lead to his demise.

I think one of the main lessons we can gain from Macbeth is the dangers of unbridled ambition. In each of our lives, there is always a point where we can decide to go forward with something or chose an alternative course. It was once Macbeth drew the hand of death on King Duncan that his fate was sealed. There was no turning back.

Let us remember the tragedy of Macbeth, keep our ambitions in check, and surround ourselves with those who encourage us to do what’s right.