Macbeth - gender Flashcards
(6 cards)
1st paragraph - Lady Macbeth
Lady Macbeth is a key character who challenges conventional gender roles. Upon hearing of Macbeth’s prophecy, she immediately questions his masculinity, calling him a “coward” and accusing him of being “too full o’ the milk of human kindness” to murder Duncan. She believes that Macbeth’s reluctance to act is due to his perceived weakness and lack of masculinity. In her desperation to push him into committing the murder, Lady Macbeth even prays to “unsex” her and calls on spirits to strip her of her feminine qualities, seeking the ruthlessness typically associated with men. This desire to reject her femininity highlights the power dynamics of the time, where strength and ambition were often associated with masculinity, while women were seen as more nurturing and passive.
2nd paragraph - Macbeth
Macbeth, on the other hand, initially struggles with the expectations of masculinity. Although he desires power, he is conflicted about murdering Duncan, as he knows it is wrong. His hesitation reveals his internal conflict, as he recognizes that committing such an act would be a violation of natural order. However, after Lady Macbeth taunts his masculinity through “was the hope drunk when you dressed yourself?”, Macbeth begins to equate manhood with the act of violence and ambition. Throughout the play, Macbeth’s actions become increasingly violent, and his understanding of masculinity becomes tied to power and cruelty, leading to him becoming a merciless tyrant.
3rd paragraph - the witches
Shakespeare also uses the witches to subvert traditional gender roles. The “weird sisters” are presented as powerful figures who reject the traditional roles of women in society. They possess control and influence over Macbeth’s fate, demonstrating a reversal of the typical power dynamics. Despite their gender, the witches are not nurturing or passive, but rather mysterious and manipulative, challenging the idea of women as weak and submissive.
4th paragraph - Macduff
Macduff represents a more honourable version of masculinity, emphasising emotion, loyalty and justice. When he discovers the brutal murder of his family, he does not hide his grief but states “I must also feel it as a man”. This shows that being a man is not just about being strong or aggressive dash, it also is about feeling pain and doing what is right. Macduff’s decision to fight Macbeth is not for selfish reasons but to save Scotland. This makes him a true hero and a contrast him at best toxic idea of manhood.
In conclusion, Shakespeare uses the theme of gender to critique and question gender roles. Through characters like Lady Macbeth, Macbeth, the witches and Macduff, the play explores how societal expectations of masculinity and femininity influence individuals’ actions, often leading to tragic consequences.
Last line of introduction
Through the important theme of gender, Shakespeare challenges the stereotypes associated with gender.
Different conclusion
In conclusion, Shakespeare uses the theme of gender to critique and question gender roles. Through characters like Lady Macbeth, Macbeth, the witches and Macduff, the play explores how societal expectations of masculinity and femininity influence individuals’ actions, often leading to tragic consequences.
