In "Macbeth," the theme of love versus self-interest is predominantly explored through the characters of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. Initially, their mutual love and ambition unite them in the plot to murder King Duncan. However, as the play progresses, self-interest takes precedence over their love.
Macbeth, driven by ambition and self-interest, becomes increasingly isolated. His decisions, motivated by power and survival, overshadow any earlier displays of love and loyalty. He even neglects Lady Macbeth in her distress, focusing solely on maintaining his power.
Lady Macbeth, on the other hand, initially prioritizes her ambition over moral or emotional considerations, pushing Macbeth towards murder. But later, she is consumed by guilt, which isolates her from Macbeth and leads to her tragic end. This shift highlights how self-interest, initially disguised as love and mutual ambition, ultimately leads to the downfall of both characters.
In "Macbeth," the theme of love versus self-interest is predominantly explored through the characters of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. Initially, their mutual love and ambition unite them in the plot to murder King Duncan. However, as the play progresses, self-interest takes precedence over their love.
Macbeth, driven by ambition and self-interest, becomes increasingly isolated. His decisions, motivated by power and survival, overshadow any earlier displays of love and loyalty. He even neglects Lady Macbeth in her distress, focusing solely on maintaining his power.
Lady Macbeth, on the other hand, initially prioritizes her ambition over moral or emotional considerations, pushing Macbeth towards murder. But later, she is consumed by guilt, which isolates her from Macbeth and leads to her tragic end. This shift highlights how self-interest, initially disguised as love and mutual ambition, ultimately leads to the downfall of both characters.