MacBeth

• Macbeth is presented as a tragic hero in Shakespeare's play
• A tragic hero, according to Aristotle, is someone highly renowned who experiences a reversal of fortune from good to bad due to a personal error or flaw
• In the opening scenes of the play, Macbeth is described as brave and highly renowned by the sergeant, King Duncan, and Banquo
• Macbeth's ambition, triggered by the witches' prophecy of him becoming king, is considered his tragic flaw or hamartia
• Banquo's reaction to the witches' prophecy contrasts with Macbeth's, highlighting Macbeth's inner ambitions
• Macbeth's descent into evil is driven by his vaulting ambition, leading him to kill King Duncan and order the murders of others
• Throughout the play, other characters refer to Macbeth as a tyrant, devilish, and a hellhound, reflecting his transformation from a respected noble to a wicked figure
• Shakespeare portrays Macbeth as somewhat sympathetic by not showing key murders on stage and by highlighting his bravery in battle, even in his downfall
• The structure of the play and character interactions help maintain some sympathy for Macbeth, despite his actions and descent into evil
• Macbeth's final moments of bravery on the battlefield evoke both fear and pity, fulfilling the requirements of a tragic hero according to Aristotle