In Macbeth, Lady Macbeth breaks away from traditional gender roles throughout the play.

As Lady Macbeth propels her husband toward committing Duncan's murder, she indicates that she must take on masculine characteristics. Her most famous speech (Act 1, Scene 5) addresses this issue.

Gender is out of its traditional order between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. This disruption of gender roles is presented through Lady Macbeth's taking of the dominant role in the Macbeths' marriage; on many occasions, she rules her husband and dictates his actions.

The disruption of gender roles is also represented by the Three Witches. Upon meeting them, Banquo says, "You should be women, / And yet your beards forbid me to interpret / That you are so". Their facial hair symbolizes their influence in the affairs of the male-dominated warrior society of Scotland.

Themes in Macbeth