1.Portrayal as Unnaturally Ambitious: Shakespeare presents Lady Macbeth as consumed by an unnatural desire for power. Her ambition is portrayed as excessive, ruthless, and devoid of moral considerations. This unquenchable thirst for power alienates readers, making them view her as power-hungry and self-centered.
2.Manipulation and Cunning: Lady Macbeth manipulates and goads her husband, Macbeth, into committing murder to gain the throne. She uses her persuasive skills and emotional appeals to convince him, showing a lack of empathy and moral compass. Readers find her cunning and manipulative nature unsympathetic.
3. Lack of Remorse: After the murders, Lady Macbeth displays a lack of remorse and guilt. She seems hardened by the experience and shows no signs of regret or emotional turmoil. This lack of remorse makes her appear callous and heartless, distancing readers from sympathizing with her.
4. Sleepwalking and Mental Deterioration: Shakespeare introduces the motif of sleepwalking and mental deterioration in Lady Macbeth's character. As the play progresses, she becomes plagued by guilt, hallucinations, and insomnia. This downfall serves as a punishment for her actions and further diminishes readers' sympathy.
5. Contrast with Macbeth: Shakespeare draws a contrast between Lady Macbeth and Macbeth's emotional journey. While Macbeth experiences guilt, remorse, and internal conflict, Lady Macbeth remains steadfast in her pursuit of power. This contrast highlights her lack of emotional depth and makes her appear cold and calculating.
6. Absence of Redeeming Qualities: Shakespeare does not provide any redeeming qualities or sympathetic moments for Lady Macbeth. Unlike other tragic Shakespearean characters who evoke pity or understanding, Lady Macbeth remains largely unsympathetic throughout the play.
7. Societal Expectations: Lady Macbeth's actions also challenge traditional gender roles and societal expectations. She oversteps the boundaries of what was considered appropriate behavior for women during that time. This transgression further contributes to readers' negative perception of her.
By employing these techniques, Shakespeare skillfully makes Lady Macbeth an unsympathetic character, arousing readers' disapproval and distancing them from empathizing with her plight.