Loyalty is a central theme in the play, as the characters grapple with their loyalty to their king, their friends, and even themselves. Macbeth's loyalty, in particular, is tested throughout the play, and various quotes highlight his struggle with loyalty and its impact on his actions. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay One of the most important quotes that exemplifies Macbeth's loyalty is when he struggles with his decision to murder King Duncan. In Act 1, scene 7, Macbeth expresses his internal conflict, saying, "I am his kinsman and his subject, / Strong both against the deed; therefore, as his guest, / Who should shut the door against his murderer , / Bear not the knife myself." In this quote, Macbeth acknowledges his loyalty to King Duncan as both his kinsman and his subject. However, his ambition and manipulation of Lady Macbeth ultimately drive him to betray his loyalty and commit regicide. Furthermore, Macbeth's loyalty is further tested when he begins to fear that Banquo's sons will inherit the throne, as the witches predicted. In Act 3, scene 1, Macbeth reflects on his growing paranoia, saying, "To be so is nothing, / But to be so safe. Our fears in Banquo / Deeply haunt, and in his kingship of nature / Reigns that which would be feared." This quote shows Macbeth's wavering loyalty as he becomes increasingly paranoid and willing to betray his former friend to secure his own power. Furthermore, Macbeth's loyalty to his own ambition is evident in the quote: "I am in the blood / I have come so far from it, if I should wade no more, / the return would be as dull as the going further." This quote illustrates Macbeth's awareness that he has come so far in his quest for power and control that there is no turning back. His loyalty to his ambition has led him down a path of destruction and he is unable to extricate himself from the consequences of his actions. Ultimately, Macbeth's loyalty is put to the final test when he faces Macduff on the battlefield. In Act 5, scene 8, Macbeth declares: "I will not yield, / To kiss the ground before young Malcolm's feet, / And to be drawn by the curse of the rabble." This quote demonstrates Macbeth's unwavering loyalty to his pride and refusal to give up, even in the face of imminent defeat. His loyalty to his own sense of power and authority ultimately leads to his downfall and death. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay In conclusion, Macbeth's loyalty is a central theme in Shakespeare's Play, as he grapples with his loyalty to others and his own ambition. Quotes highlighted throughout the play show Macbeth's internal conflict and the consequences of his wavering loyalty. His betrayal of King Duncan, his former friend Banquo, and ultimately himself illustrates the destructive nature of uncontrolled ambition and the toll it takes on one's loyalty. Shakespeare's exploration of loyalty in Macbeth serves as a cautionary tale, reminding audiences of the devastating consequences of betraying one's loyalty..
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