Through the character of Macbeth, Shakespeare demonstrates that the more powerful an individual is, the more likely they are to pose a danger to others.

This is because of the nature of power itself. When one is in a position of power, one is able to influence people and events. In weak characters, this becomes a corrupting element as power is then used to secure their own interests, often at the expense of others. This is true in Macbeth’s case, as he used wicked means to obtain power and then secure it. Seduced by the witches’ prophecy, urged on by his ambitious wife, he murdered his king, ruthlessly eliminated competitors to his own throne, and shaped Scotland according to his own foul desires.

Obtaining power through such evil deeds, …show more content…
The more powerful the person is, the easier it is for him to suppress resistance. Malcolm recognised this, knowing that he would need not only refuge but the assistance of the English king to regain what the “dwarfish thief” had taken. Meanwhile, without an opposing force, Macbeth was able to totally change the political landscape to one that is characterized by deceit, betrayal and murder. Throughout history, this has been the usual outcome where abuse of power is rampant.

It is not only this lack of restraint that makes increasing power dangerous. As the means for abuse becomes increasingly available, so does the potential for harm. After committing murder at the start of the play, Macbeth is later able to direct others to do the deed. He also reinforces false suspicions against Malcolm and Donaldbain, setting kinsmen against each other. As king, his sphere of influence was far-reaching, and so was the damage he wrought.

Thus, the paradox in the play is that Macbeth’s sense of self- control crumbled away even as his power grew. The moral restraint that would have curbed the abuse of power disappeared on the night of Duncan’s murder. He had chosen power for its own sake rather than the honour and loyalty of his countrymen, and thus became a menace to others, including the innocent. His actions ultimately lead to his tragic demise. Macbeth proves the truth that power can be dangerous,