Lady Macbeth:
- Guilt and Mental Deterioration: Lady Macbeth becomes consumed by guilt after the murder of Duncan and begins to experience nightmares and hallucinations. Her mental state deteriorates, leading to sleepwalking and eventual madness.
- Isolation: She becomes isolated from her husband, Macbeth, as he struggles with his own guilt and ambition. She is left to deal with the consequences of their actions alone.
- Loss of Humanity: Lady Macbeth loses her sense of morality and humanity as she becomes increasingly ruthless in pursuit of power. This loss takes a significant toll on her emotional well-being.
- Suicide: In the end, Lady Macbeth commits suicide as she can no longer bear the weight of her guilt and suffering.
Macbeth:
- Guilt and Paranoia: Macbeth becomes plagued by guilt and paranoia after the murder of Duncan. He experiences hallucinations, such as seeing Banquo's ghost, and fears being exposed or punished for his crimes.
- Loss of Sleep and Physical Health: Macbeth suffers from insomnia and deteriorating physical health due to the mental stress and guilt he is experiencing.
- Loss of Trust and Connection: Macbeth becomes isolated and suspicious of those around him, fearing betrayal and retribution. He loses the trust and respect of his friends and subjects.
- Tragic End: Macbeth meets a tragic end when he is defeated and killed by Macduff. His downfall is a direct result of his actions and the suffering he has caused.
While both characters suffer greatly throughout the play, Lady Macbeth's suffering is primarily internal and psychological, manifested in her guilt and mental deterioration. Macbeth, on the other hand, experiences external consequences, such as the loss of trust, sleep, and ultimately, his life. Ultimately, the audience may interpret the extent of their suffering differently, but both characters endure significant emotional, psychological, and physical pain as a result of their actions.