Table of contentsIntroductionMacbeth's journey: greed and betrayalConsequences of Macbeth's ambitionConclusionWorks citedIntroduction“Don't listen, Duncan; for it is a toll that calls thee to heaven or hell,” Macbeth exclaims bitterly, the sound of the bells both foreshadowing and signifying Macbeth's murderous betrayal in Macbeth. This scene was the decisive moment of adventure for Macbeth, where his greed prevails over his loyalty. Following the conventions of Greek tragedy, Shakespearean protagonists have hamartia, that is, a fatal flaw that results in the tragedy of their plays, such as Romeo's carelessness and Hamlet's indecision. Macbeth's hamartia is clearly his greed. He even admits it himself in his soliloquy in Act 1, scene 7, where he explains that it was only his "hunched ambition" that pushed him to assassinate his king to whom he was so loyal, and nothing else. Therefore, this very theme of greed continues to motivate and dictate Macbeth's behavior. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why violent video games should not be banned”?Get the original essayMacbeth's Peripeteia: Greed and BetrayalShakespeare's Macbeth reflects a time in history when greed and corruption were rife, where royalty resorted to violence and betrayal to secure their power. Specifically, at a time of great political turmoil, when Queen Elizabeth I had refused to name a successor to the throne just before her death. Shakespeare emphasizes this through Macbeth's gruesome and murderous actions as his greed overrides his morality, exemplified when he kills Banquo by hiring two murderers and inviting him to a feast. He even orders the death of his son Fléance. What can we learn from it? Although in our society politicians do not kill each other for power like 16th century royalty would have done, the greed and corruption within Macbeth can also be demonstrated through them. Thus, Shakespeare is trying to convey that it is human nature to succumb to temptation and greed. Why does the topic of greed concern us? We may not realize it, but humans are naturally greedy. Politicians are a perfect example of this, as they share a strong desire for power and wealth. Their decisions are often driven by greed rather than what is ultimately best for the majority. The recent record-breaking bushfires in Australia demonstrate this, as these fires are the result of climate change, a globally recognized problem that politicians are avoiding. So why are they avoiding climate change? The answer is simply greed. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions would require a reduction in coal production, which would have a negative impact on the economy which relies mainly on the export of natural resources. Using coal as an energy source is also much less expensive than other forms of renewable energy. Australian politicians are even blaming climate change to protect themselves. Overall, they are not willing to sacrifice economic gains for social and environmental causes, showing pure greed. Consequences of Macbeth's Ambition What else can we say that Macbeth wanted? Macbeth perhaps wanted to establish himself in history. However, his "vault ambition" ultimately led to his misery and downfall as he was never satisfied, even when he became king. Macbeth's concern to retain the throne created a distorted view of reality, as he was unable to experience the lavish life of a king, but instead, 2011.