1. Final Thoughts: Tragedy, Symbols, and Theme
Macbeth
Final Thoughts: Tragedy, Symbols, and Theme

2. Tragedy: When the protagonist dies
Hamartia: tragic flaw/excess of some character trait that leads to his downfall and the downfall of others
Tragic hero: character of high standing who must oppose some conflicting force, either external/internal
Macbeth must face the evil forces of the witches who are pitted against him
Macbeth’s ambition is his hamartia or tragic flaw
Macbeth’s death releases him from life’s burdens
His country is released from the disorder and chaos caused by the supernatural influence that has caused Macbeth’s downfall.

3. Darkness-Scotland remains dark once Duncan is murdered
Symbols in Macbeth
Evil-Witches
Disorder-Nature out of balance (horses eating each other/murder of king)
Darkness-Scotland remains dark once Duncan is murdered
Good-Malcolm, Donalbain
Order-The king’s loyal subjects should remain loyal
Light-Lady Macbeth’s candle

4. Evil deeds beget (cause further) evil deeds
Themes in Macbeth
When the natural order is out of balance, then all society becomes disordered
Evil deeds beget (cause further) evil deeds
One cannot escape the guilt of a purely heinous act such as murder
Good ultimately will overcome evil
Be cautious of ambition. Too much of it may cause one to cause evil deeds.
Friendship and loyalty are better than power and money.
Be wary of those that counsel you to commit evil acts.