An important theme in William Shakespeare's novel Macbeth is the idea of ​​universal masculinity. Throughout the play, Shakespeare uses male stereotypes to present conflicting views on the definition of manhood. Macbeth tells the reader about a man who allows both the societal pressures inflicted on him by his wife and his intense ambition to lead Macbeth into a spiral of obscene acts of violence. Characters often associate being a man with courage, cruelty, and power. This pervasive caricature of a “man” is evident to the reader throughout the play. Lady Macbeth, for example, excites Macbeth about his masculinity to the point of murder. Furthermore, Malcolm and Macduff's rigid discussion of revenge reveals a defined notion of "real" masculinity. Perhaps the culmination of rigid gender stereotypes is evident in Macbeth's reflection on the legitimacy of hitmen's manhood. Obviously, Shakespeare upholds male gender stereotypes in Macbeth. A permeating aspect of Shakespeare's depiction of masculinity is his dominance over femininity. Lady Macbeth plays a vital role in this state of mind throughout the plot. To achieve power, Lady Macbeth views her femininity as an obstacle and obtaining masculine attributes as a step toward the throne. We see this when she says: “Come, you spirits who occupy yourselves with mortal thoughts, desex me here and fill me from head to foot with the most terrible cruelty” (33). In this quote, she is literally asking to replace her feminine attributes with masculine attributes, which she perceives as cruelty and aggression. She continues to emphasize this ideal when she declares: “Come to my wife's breast and take my milk for gall” (33). This line is a glaring reference ...... middle of paper ...... is important both symbolically and literally in the novel. Since manliness and masculine characteristics are highly valued in this society, challenging a person's personality or actions can change them completely and push them to drastic measures. In summary, Shakespeare defines and maintains traditional male gender stereotypes. Through the actions of Macbeth and his fellow characters, Shakespeare paints a clear picture on the canvas of verse of what a man should look and act like. From the facial expressions of death, a Shakespearean portrait of masculinity is fully realized. Although this literary work is hundreds of years old, its assumptions that there is a universal idea of ​​what it means to be a "man" are still relevant in today's world. Every day, men in the 21st century still live like Macbeth, still striving to be a “real” man..