Macbeth by William Shakespeare
(1623) 214 pages

One of Shakespeare’s most renowned plays is Macbeth.  The story is about the political ambition of Macbeth. At the beginning of the play, Macbeth is rewarded with the title of the Thane of Cawdor for his success in battle.  Macbeth was joyous yet his wife, Lady Macbeth was unsatisfied and devised a plan to assassinate the King(who promoted Macbeth)  for more power. The King’s son, Malcolm was accused of the murder of his father and was forced to flee away. When Macbeth was given the crown he became arrogant and believed he was invincible as three witches informed him that “no man born from their mother” could kill him.  Macbeth also became very anxious and started doubting people around him. He even killed his best friend, Banquo because he received a prophecy that Banquo’s descendants would get the throne. Unfortunately, for Macbeth, his plan failed and Banquo’s son, Fleance fled away.  Macbeth was also aware that people such as Macduff and the rightful heir, Malcolm were attempting to dethrone Macbeth.  Macbeth also attempted to kill Macduff, who happened to be out of town at the time. Macduff was later heartbroken to find out that the rest of his family at his house was killed by Macbeth’s men. 

As the story progresses, Macbeth becomes more hysterical. While this is happening, Macduff and Malcolm are designing a plan to dethrone Macbeth. Lady Macbeth dies before the battle which causes Macbeth to lose all hope. This inspired him to give his famous “Tomorrow and tomorrow and Tomorrow” speech. Macbeth’s men then proceeded to betray Macbeth and leave him alone to fight Macduff.  Macduff was not born from his mother as she died during the delivery. This allowed him to bypass the prophecy. Macduff eventually was able to defeat Macbeth. He was very righteous and gave Malcolm, the heir, the throne. This story was a true Shakespearean classic and I enjoyed reading this dramatic tragedy.