The Downfall of the Tragic Hero Macbeth A Shakespearean tragic hero may be defined as “an exceptional being of high degree” who contributes to his own degeneration and shows a personality flaw. The character of Shakespeare’s Macbeth is a perfect example of a tragic hero. His greatness and bravery in battle for his country ultimately leads him to be a great thane and eventually a powerful king, making his actions have a significant impact on a country. Macbeth’s ambition to become king leads to his obsession to remain in his current position. His ambition comes to a point where he falls to the temptation of evil, which leads to Macbeth’s inevitable downfall. At the beginning of the play, Macbeth is portrayed as a brave man whose performance in Scotland’s battle is celebrated. This is clearly evident from the courage in defense of Scotland in the opening scene. A wounded solider describes Macbeth’s actions as “Cannons overcharg’d with double cracks ... Doubly redoubled strokes upon the foe” Act 1, scene 2, line 37-39 With such positive feedback from the battle, King Duncan can not help but be happy with Macbeth and his soldiers. Duncan’s response to the valiant news is giving him another title, which elevated him from his present position “No more thane of Cawdor shall deceive ... and with his former title greet Macbeth... What hath lost noble Macbeth hath won” Before the hearing of his new title, Macbeth as well as his partner Banquo encounter three witches who give Macbeth a look of what his future beholds. With each word spoken from the witches, the importance he holds for Scotland increases. From Thane of Glamis, to Thane of Cawdor and eventually to the throne of Scotland. With all the praises he receives and learning about his new title, Macbeth’s ambition to become a powerful king cannot help but rise. Macbeth wins a battle and proves loyal to Dunc...
