As a villain:
- Murderous actions: Macbeth's relentless pursuit of power leads him to commit atrocious murders. He starts by killing King Duncan, the rightful ruler, and then goes on to eliminate anyone he perceives as a threat to his throne, including Banquo, Macduff's wife and children, and eventually, Macduff himself.
-Moral decline: Macbeth's ambition corrupts his moral compass. He allows his desires for power to overshadow his sense of right and wrong. His guilt and fear drive him into madness and isolation.
-Destructive impact: Macbeth's actions bring chaos and destruction to Scotland. The country suffers under his tyrannical rule, with innocent people being harmed and justice subverted.
As a victim:
- External influences: Macbeth's encounters with the three witches plant the seeds of ambition in his mind. He is manipulated by supernatural forces beyond his control, which prey on his weaknesses and desires.
- Tragic Hero: Some view Macbeth as a tragic hero, a character who experiences downfall due to a tragic flaw or error in judgment. His ambition, while driven by external influences, ultimately becomes his undoing.
-Internal conflict: Macbeth's internal struggle between his desire for power and the guilt he feels after his actions is a sign of his humanity. He is tormented by his conscience, which shows his capacity for remorse and moral awareness.
Ultimately, whether one sees Macbeth primarily as a villain or a victim is a matter of interpretation. By presenting a multifaceted character, William Shakespeare allows the audience to reflect on the complexities of human nature, power, and fate.