Power and Corruption

Power and Corruption

1. King Duncan

   • main symbol of power at start of play
     • has not been corrupted
       • shown respect
         • "our duties / are to your throne and state, children and servants" MACBETH

2. desirable

   • witches tempt Macbeth
     • "the swelling act / of the imperial theme" MACBETH
   • Lady Macbeth
     • tempts Macbeth
       • "solely sovereign sway and masterdom" LADY MACBETH
         • sibilance suggests sinister corruption of power
     • excited by thoughts of gaining power
       • Macbeth's letter about the witches
         • "transported me beyond / this ignorant present, and i feel now / the future in the instant" LADY MACBETH