1. Desire for Power: Macbeth's decision to kill Duncan is primarily motivated by his desire for power. He is enticed by the prophecies of the witches and sees Duncan's death as the path to becoming king. This act reveals Macbeth's ambitious nature and his willingness to commit heinous acts to achieve his goals.
2. Turning Point: The murder of Duncan marks a turning point in the play and in Macbeth's character. It sets in motion a chain of events that lead to his downfall. After the murder, Macbeth becomes increasingly paranoid, guilt-ridden, and consumed by his crimes.
3. Moral Descent: Killing Duncan is a pivotal moment that signifies Macbeth's moral descent. He crosses a moral boundary by committing murder, which leads him down a dark and destructive path. The guilt and psychological consequences of his actions haunt him throughout the play.
4. Loss of Innocence: Macbeth's act of killing Duncan represents the loss of his innocence and humanity. He becomes desensitized to violence, and his moral compass becomes distorted. This transformation highlights the corrupting influence of power and ambition.
5. Dramatic Tension: The murder of Duncan creates dramatic tension and suspense in the play. It leaves the audience wondering what consequences will follow Macbeth's actions and how his character will evolve as the story unfolds.
Overall, the act of killing King Duncan is significant as it sets in motion the tragic events of the play, reveals Macbeth's character flaws, and leads him on a journey of moral decline and eventual destruction.