THEMES Themes are the fundamental and often universal ideas explored in a literay work. The Corrupting Power of Unchecked Ambition The main theme of Macbeth- the destruction arought when ambition goes unchecked by moral contraints finds its most powerful expression in the two main characters. Macbeth is a courageous Scottish general who is not naturally inclined to commit evil deeds, yet he deeply desires power and advancement. He kills Duncan against his better judgement and …showed first 75 words of 649 total…

…showed last 75 words of 649 total…shall do so; yet I must also feel it like a man". IViii 221-223. At the end of the play, Siward receives the news of his son's death rather complacently. Malcom responds "He's worth more sorrow/And that I'll spend for him." Vxi 16-17. Malcom's comment shows that he has learned the lesson Macduff gave him on the nature of true masculinity. It also suggests that, with Malcom's coronation, order will be restored to Scotland.