key character analysis Macbeth

• Macbeth 


  The tragic hero of the play, Macbeth is initially presented as a valiant warrior. His encounter with the witches awakens his ambition, which ultimately leads to his downfall. His character is complex; he is both courageous and cowardly, moral and immoral. As the play progresses, he becomes increasingly tyrannical and paranoid.
• Lady Macbeth 


  Lady Macbeth is ambitious and manipulative. She spurs her husband’s ambition and helps plan Duncan’s murder. However, her guilt over the crimes eventually leads to her mental breakdown and death.
• The three witches 


  The witches serve as agents of chaos and fate in the play. Their prophecies are cryptic and set Macbeth on his tragic path. They represent supernatural forces that influence the mortal world
• Banquo


  Macbeth’s friend and fellow soldier, Banquo also hears the witches’ prophecies but chooses not to act on them. His moral fortitude contrasts with Macbeth’s moral decline. Banquo’s ghost haunts Macbeth, symbolizing guilt and the consequences of Macbeth’s actions.
• King Duncan 


  The benevolent and venerable king of Scotland. His murder marks the start of Macbeth’s descent into tyranny.
• Macduff


  A nobleman who becomes suspicious of Macbeth and ultimately leads the rebellion against him. He represents virtue and justice in the play.
• Malcolm 


  The son of King Duncan, whose rightful succession to the throne is disrupted by Macbeth’s usurpation. He eventually returns to Scotland to restore order.