In Shakespeare's Macbeth, consider how Macbeth, in his role of tragic hero, functions as an instrument of the suffering of others.

William Shakespeare created one of his most despicable, yet pathetic, characters with the tragic hero of Macbeth. Tragic heroes have a tragic flaw, a weakness that brings about their downfall. Macbeth's flaw is his failure to understand the consequences of his ambition.

One of the primary consequences of Macbeth's ambition is the misery it causes for others. As Macbeth slips deeper and deeper into his single-minded madness, he becomes less and less concerned about the...

William Shakespeare created one of his most despicable, yet pathetic, characters with the tragic hero of Macbeth. Tragic heroes have a tragic flaw, a weakness that brings about their downfall. Macbeth's flaw is his failure to understand the consequences of his ambition.

One of the primary consequences of Macbeth's ambition is the misery it causes for others. As Macbeth slips deeper and deeper into his single-minded madness, he becomes less and less concerned about the devastation he creates.

The first object of his ambition is, of course, King Duncan. This causes a broad range of misery, as Duncan's sons and subjects all feel sorrow at his death.

Next, he kills the faithful and innocent Banquo, rendering his son fatherless.

Ironically, Macbeth's actions result in the suicide of his wife, Lady Macbeth, who cannot shake the guilt of the plot she originated. She is an unexpected victim, since we saw her behave so ruthlessly in acts I and II.

Although at this point he has already gained the throne, his ambition breeds a paranoia that leaves him feeling threatened and exposed. Macbeth sinks to his deepest point when he orders the killing of Macduff's wife and children. Macduff's suffering at the loss of his family is the most poignant moment in the play, and it underscores how evil Macbeth has become. 

Finally, Macbeth brings misery to himself, as evidenced by his famous soliloquy “Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow,” in which he reveals how pointless his life has become with lines “Life is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.”