LRJ #1 Macbeth

My initial impressions of Macbeth were that he was courageous, well respected among his peers and quite noble. "For brave Macbeth- well he deserves that name- Disdaining Fortune, with his brandished steel" (Shakespeare 1.2 16 – 17) This quotes from the captain shows that Macbeth is thought highly of, a brave warrior and is respected by those of high authority. All are things that show him to be a good man.
Lady Macbeth comes off much darker than her male counter part. She is very ambitious and powerful yet cunning and possibly evil. “Have plucked my nipple from his boneless gums and dashed the brains out, had I so sworn as you have done to this” Lady Macbeth Is saying that she would murder her own child had she promised that to Macbeth. This shows that Lady Macbeth is very cunning and ambitious; she will say anything to get what she wants. She also hints that she is capable of horrible things, such as the murder of a child.
Banquo seems to be a generally good person. He is a noble soldier and quite respectful. “Worthy Macbeth, we stay upon your leisure.” (Shakespeare 1.4 150) Here Banquo shows that he is quite loyal and respectful to Macbeth, two very good character traits. Banquo fights nobly along side Macbeth, proving that he is a true warrior at heart.
A common theme scene through out act one is ambition. Both Macbeth and Lady Macbeth fall victim to it. “What cannot you and I perform upon th’unguarded Duncan?” (Shakespeare 1.7 70 – 71) This shows Lady Macbeth talking about how she and Macbeth could kill Duncan and get away with the thrown. All her regard for chivalry and honor is over shadowed by her ambition and lust for power. Macbeth too, lets Lady Macbeth persuade him. His initial response to the prophecy is to let happen what happens, but after talking to Lady Macbeth he lets his ambition get the best of him.
A striking image that I am left with after reading act one is that of Lady Macbeth. “I would while it was smiling in my face, have plucked my nipple from his boneless gums and dashed the brains out, had I sworn as you have done this.” (Shakespeare 1.7 57 - 60) This passage is shacking to me because it is very graphic and incredibly unexpected. The image of her murdering a smiling baby is rather demented. Even Macbeth is caught off guard by this remark and almost completely shocked into following the command of Lady Macbeth.