Shakespeares Macbeth - Renaissance Humanism Essay -- GCSE English Lit

While the witches vex in Shakespeares tragedy Macbeth assume the role of supernatural beings, it was non Shakespeares intent to portray a classic case of fatalism. On the contrary, Shakespeare used Macbeth as a way to display the idea of metempsychosis humanism. Although the witches did in fact possess uncanny powers, they were in reality not controlling Macbeth, however rather they were tempting Macbeth to act in exceptional ways. The witches, as well as other significant characters, may feature encouraged Macbeth to act in a certain way, yet they did not by any means determine Macbeths actions. By study the humanist movement and its values to the tragedy Macbeth, it becomes blatantly obvious that Macbeth was think to demonstrate the basic humanistic qualities. Under the premise of humanism it is needful that there be a centralization and focus upon humans, a equaliser in which elements within reflect without, and all reason must be used to become more angelic than besti al. Although the witches predictions display supernatural properties, their philosophies shopping center around the dealings of mere mortal humans. This gives humans a palpate of importance in the workings of the world. Even nature is disturbed as part of fulfilling one of the philosophies (the displacing of Birnam Wood to Dunsinane). Moreover, one of the main themes of the play, the effects of sinister in the life of one man- Macbeth, stresses a centralization on the individual(a) being. Through the usage of masks in Macbeth, the balance is achieved by blocking off-key elements within from being focused without. This is shown in Act I, scene V, as Lady Macbeth talks to Macbeth, she gives him specific instructions Look like the magazine bear welcome in your eye, Your han... ...he appearance of the Weird Sisters in Macbeth, as well as the encouragement of a few influential characters, Macbeth is clear defined as a portrayal of the true spirit of spiritual rebirth humanism. Ma cbeth may have attempted to place the blame away from himself, but the fact that he no longer accepted the responsibility for his actions does not mean that the responsibility is removed, and therefore Macbeths downfall can be traced back to the actions of one man, Macbeth. Works Cited Page Cooper, The Mystery of Witchcraft, London, 1617. Epstein, Norrie, The Friendly Shakepeare, juvenile York, Viking Publishing, 1993. Harbage, Alfred, Macbeth, Middlesex England, Penguin Publishing, 1956. Magill, Masterplots- Volume 6, New Jersey, Salem Press, 1949. Staunten, Howard, The Complet Illustrated Shakespeare, New York, Park Lane Publishing, 1979.