Ambition

• What is the driving force behind Macbeth’s rise and fall?

  Ambition
• How does Shakespeare present ambition in Macbeth?

  As a dangerous and corrupting influence
• What does the play warn about unchecked ambition?

  It leads to destruction for the ambitious
• Who are the central characters motivated by ambition?

  Macbeth and Lady Macbeth
• What is the difference between noble ambition and ruthless ambition in Macbeth?

  Noble ambition is guided by virtue
• What does Macbeth acknowledge about his ambition in Act 1, Scene 7?

  It is his only motive and dangerous
• What does the metaphor of “vaulting ambition” suggest?

  It can overreach and lead to collapse
• What does Macbeth wish to conceal in Act 1, Scene 4?

  His black and deep desires
• How does Shakespeare portray ambition in Macbeth?

  As something dark and shameful
• What does Lady Macbeth believe about ambition in Act 1, Scene 5?

  It requires ruthlessness to act
• What does Lady Macbeth call upon the supernatural to do?

  Remove her femininity and morality
• How do the witches influence Macbeth's ambition?

  They spark it with their prophecy
• What choice does Banquo make regarding the witches' prophecy?

  He chooses restraint and not to dwell
• What does Shakespeare contrast to show ambition's nature?

  Noble ambition versus corrupt ambition
• What does Shakespeare warn about unchecked ambition?

  It destroys character and stability
• How is Macbeth’s ambition viewed in the context of the Divine Right of Kings?

  As a sinful act against God’s order
• What was considered dangerous in Jacobean England regarding ambition?

  When it threatened natural and divine order
• What contemporary fears does Shakespeare reflect in Macbeth?

  Political power and ambition leading to unrest
• What does the Great Chain of Being signify in Macbeth?

  Disrupting hierarchy brings catastrophe