Masculinity

• Ambition and Power


  Macbeth's ambition for power and his desire to fulfill the prophecy drives much of the action in the play. His willingness to do whatever it takes to become king, including murder, is often associated with traditional notions of masculine strength and determination.
• Violence and Aggression


  The play depicts a society where physical prowess and the ability to engage in combat are highly valued masculine traits. Macbeth's prowess in battle is celebrated at the beginning of the play, and his willingness to resort to violence to achieve his goals is seen as a demonstration of his masculinity.
• Control and Dominance


  Macbeth's attempts to assert control over his fate and the fate of others reflect traditional ideas of masculine dominance. However, his inability to maintain control ultimately leads to his downfall.
• Lady Macbeth's Influence


  Lady Macbeth challenges traditional gender roles by urging Macbeth to be more aggressive and ruthless in his pursuit of power. Her manipulation of Macbeth plays into the stereotype of the powerful, cunning woman manipulating a weaker man, thus questioning traditional notions of masculinity.
• Banquo's Contrast


  Banquo serves as a foil to Macbeth, representing a different kind of masculinity. While Banquo is also ambitious, he is more restrained and honorable, refusing to succumb to the same ruthless tactics as Macbeth.
• "I dare do all that may become a man; Who dares do more is none." - Macbeth (Act 1, Scene 7)

  • Macbeth's soliloquy reveals his inner conflict about the definition of masculinity and the extent of his ambition.
• "False face must hide what the false heart doth know." - Macbeth (Act 1, Scene 7)

  • This quote reflects the idea of masking one's true feelings or intentions, suggesting a connection between masculinity and deception.
• "Out, out, brief candle! Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage and then is heard no more." - Macbeth (Act 5, Scene 5)

  • In this soliloquy, Macbeth reflects on the transient nature of life and the futility of his violent pursuits, challenging traditional notions of masculinity.