Macbeth Literary Analysis/Argumentative Essay:
Macbeth is a tragedy, highlighting the downfall of a war hero and a nobleman who was seduced by the idea of ultimate power, but that is not the only reason he succumbs to the basest nature within him. Who or what, in your opinion, is most to blame for Macbeth’s decision to murder for ambition? Write a multi-paragraph argument analyzing why supernatural forces, Lady Macbeth, or Macbeth himself is most to blame for the decision to kill and what this reveals about human nature, fate, relationships, or self-determination. *Make sure to take a clear stance and argue that one is most to blame, not all.
Example Outline/Organization:
*Example Thesis: In Macbeth, Shakespeare explores the ignoble and inadmirable side human nature through the tragic downfall of Macbeth, which is a direct result of his violent, selfish, and power-hungry nature and not the outside influences that too easily entice him to murder.
I. The witches and Lady Macbeth merely provide the opportunity for Macbeth to express his true…
A. “Text” (citation)
B. “Text” (citation)
II. Macbeth’s violent nature is made clear in…
A. “Text” (citation)
B. “Text” (citation)
III. His selfish desires underlie every…
A. “Text” (citation)
B. “Text” (citation)
IV. Ambition for power drives Macbeth’s willingness to…
A. “Text” (citation) B. “Text” (citation)