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Character study- Lady Macbeth - Coggle Diagram
Character study- Lady Macbeth
Traditional Gender roles
Conformity to gender roles
example of supportive roles
She manipulates Macbeth’s insecurities, urging him to act on his ambitions, which aligns with the expectation of women influencing their husbands.
Quote
“Come, you spirits that tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here.”
This quote illustrates her desire to shed feminine qualities to aid her husband.
Lady Macbeth initially embodies the traditional tole of a devoted wife, supporting her husband's ambitions. She encourages Macbeth to pursue power, reflecting the expectation for women to be supportive
Divergence from gender roles
Lady macbeth challenges the era's gender norms by exhibiting ambition and ruthlessness typically associated with masculinity
Quote
“Look like th' innocent flower, but be the serpent under't.”
This quote highlights her strategic manipulation, a trait not traditionally ascribed to women.
Example of Power dynamics
Her dominance in the relationship subverts the expected submissive role of women, as she orchestrates the murder of King Duncan.
Main conflict
Internal struggle
Lady Macbeth's primary conflict arises from her ambition clashing with her conscience. she desires power but is haunted by guilt
Quote
“Out, damned spot! Out, I say!”
This line reveals her psychological torment and the consequences of her actions.
Example of guilt manifestation
Her sleepwalking and obsessive hand-washing symbolize her inability to escape the guilt of her complicity in Duncan's murder.
Development throughout the play
Quote
“What's done is done.”
This reflects her resignation to the consequences of their actions, showcasing her mental decline.
Example of isolation
As Macbeth becomes more tyrannical, Lady Macbeth grows increasingly isolated, highlighting her loss of control and agency.
Lady Macbeth's character evolves from a strong-willed instigator to a guilt ridden figure
Psychological complexity
Guilt and madness
Lady Macbeth's psychological state deteriorates as guilt overwhelms her
Quote
“Yet who would have thought the old man to have had so much blood in him?”
This reflects her descent into madness and obsession with guilt.
Example of sleepwalking
Her sleepwalking episodes serve as a manifestation of her troubled conscience, revealing the depth of her psychological turmoil.
Contrast with Macbeth
Quote
“Be innocent of the knowledge, dearest chuck.”
Macbeth's desire to shield her from the truth shows her diminishing role in their plans.
Example of role reversal
As Macbeth embraces tyranny, Lady Macbeth's initial strength fades, illustrating a reversal of their power dynamics.
Her Psychological journey contrasts with Macbeth's, who becomes increasingly ruthless
Themes of Gender and power
Gender dynamics
Quote
“Come to my woman's breasts, and take my milk for gall.”
This quote emphasizes her rejection of traditional femininity in pursuit of power.
Example of gender reversal
Her ambition and manipulation challenge the patriarchal structure, positioning her as a powerful figure in a male-dominated society.
Lady Macbeth's character embodies the complexities of gender and power in the play
Power and corruption
The theme of power corrupting is evident in Lady Macbeth's character
Example of Moral decline
Her initial resolve crumbles under the weight of guilt, illustrating the destructive nature of unchecked ambition.
Quote
“Fair is foul, and foul is fair.”
This reflects the moral ambiguity that accompanies their quest for power.
Ambition and power
Ambition as a driving force
Quote
“I have given suck, and know how tender 'tis to love the babe that milks me.”
This quote reveals her willingness to forsake maternal instincts for power.
Example of manipulation
She questions Macbeth's manhood to spur him into action, demonstrating her relentless pursuit of ambition.
Lady Macbeth's ambition is a central aspect of her character, driving her actions and decisions
Consequences of ambition
Quote
“Things without all remedy should be without regard: what's done is done.”
This illustrates her struggle to cope with the irreversible nature of their actions.
Example of Relationship strain
As Macbeth becomes consumed by power, Lady Macbeth's influence wanes, leading to a rift in their relationship.
Her ambition leads to tragic outcomes, affecting both her and Macbeth