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Macbeth

Macbeth. Theme of Kingship. Kingship is one of the central themes of the play. King = God’s representative on earth Shakespeare highlights the potential of kingship for good and evil. The welfare of the state depends on the legitimacy of the king,.

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Macbeth

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  1. Macbeth Theme of Kingship

  2. Kingship is one of the central themes of the play • King = God’s representative on earth • Shakespeare highlights the potential of kingship for good and evil. • The welfare of the state depends on the legitimacy of the king,

  3. Lawful and good kings bring order and stability. • Duncan and Malcolm are lawful and virtuous kings. • Macbeth is a usurper (someone who steals the throne), whose reign brings only disorder.

  4. Macduff and Malcolm discuss the qualities a good King should have. Note that Macbeth does not have any of these qualities. • “Justice • Verity (truth) • Temperance • Stableness (consistency) • Bounty (generosity) • Perseverance • Mercy • Lowliness (humility) • Devotion • Patience • Courage • Fortitude”

  5. Duncan is a lawful and good King of Scotland How do we know this?: • He has defeated his enemies. • The loyalty and bravery of his army is proof of his leadership • Justly punishes those who betray him (Thane of Cawdor) • Rewards and praises Macbeth and Banquo. • Generous to his hostess • Even Macbeth acknowledges that he has “been so clear in his great office” • His murder is seen as a crime against God.

  6. King Edward (English King) • Described as “Pious” and “Holy” • Provides Malcolm and Macduff with the army to overthrow Macbeth. • Contrast between his rule and Macbeth’s rule striking. • Edward means blessing and healing • Macbeth means disorder and sickness

  7. Macbeth the Usurper • He murders the lawful and just king to claim the throne. • The murder upsets the entire natural order, strange happenings occur.

  8. Duncan is comfortable as king but Macbeth never enjoys kingship How do we know this?: • Full of doubt and insecurity • His mind “full of scorpions” • Even envies Duncan who now “sleeps well” • Inspires no loyalty • Linked with darkness and sickness.

  9. Malcolm as King • Possesses the qualities of king. • Brings Scotland back to its natural order at the end of the play when the evil usurper Macbeth is killed and Malcolm becomes king.

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