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Macbeth - characterWho's to blame?

The characters of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth develop throughout the play. He becomes a vicious, desperate tyrant. She quickly fades out of the action. The three witches also have a profound influence.

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Who's to blame?

There are many things to consider when thinking about who is to blame, for example:

  • Whose idea is Duncan's murder?
  • Who is the stronger - Macbeth or Lady Macbeth?
  • Whom do we pity?
  • Are Macbeth and Lady Macbeth a team, and if not, when do things change?

Macbeth

  • He already harbours thoughts of the kingship.
  • He willingly listens to the witches.
  • He writes to his wife to excite her interest.
  • He begins to back off when the plan has been hatched.
  • He takes over the planning from Lady Macbeth.
  • His speech is full of evil, threat and darkness.

Lady Macbeth

  • She is obsessed with the news sent by Macbeth.
  • She immediately hatches a plan.
  • Her speech is full of evil double meaning.
  • She taunts Macbeth when he tries to back down.
  • She takes the knives back to the servants after the murder.
  • She tries to make everything normal again afterwards.

The witches

  • They select their target precisely.
  • They speak Macbeth's thoughts.
  • They make him believe his greatest prize is near.
  • They show him they have the power of prophecy.
  • They torment him with riddles.