Tragic Hero:
1. Fate and Free Will: Macbeth's tragic journey is driven by his ambition and desire for power. He is tempted by the prophecies of the witches, setting him on a path of destruction. However, he also possesses free will, making choices that lead to his downfall.
2. Tragic Flaw: Macbeth's tragic flaw lies in his ambition and need for validation. His insecurity and desire to maintain power lead him to commit heinous acts and plunge into a cycle of violence.
3. Catharsis: Macbeth's downfall evokes a sense of catharsis, the emotional release of pity and fear in the audience. As we witness his descent into madness and self-destruction, we feel a sense of relief and understanding of the consequences of his choices.
Antihero:
1. Lack of Traditional Virtues: Macbeth lacks many of the traditional traits of a heroic figure. He betrays his king and best friend, engages in deception, and becomes morally corrupt in his quest for power.
2. Unlikeable Protagonist: Macbeth is often portrayed as an antihero due to his morally repugnant actions and lack of sympathetic qualities. His cruelty and brutality make it challenging for the audience to fully empathize with him.
3. Self-Destruction: Macbeth's downfall is brought about by his hubris and lack of self-control. He believes himself invincible, leading to a series of mistakes and ultimately his destruction.
In conclusion, Macbeth exhibits characteristics of both a tragic hero and an antihero. His tragic journey, involving fate, free will, and a tragic flaw, evokes a sense of catharsis. At the same time, his unlikeable traits, moral depravity, and self-destructive behavior place him in the realm of an antihero. Ultimately, the interpretation of Macbeth's character lies within the individual reader or audience member's perception of the play and the themes it explores.