Thesis
The titular character's lust for kingship is the driving force of this play. Macbeth's conscience is overcome by his hubris, leading to his illegitimate ascension to the throne. This act serves as a warning to those looking to usurp the King at the time, James I. The kingdom prospers under the rightful king, and descends into chaos when Macbeth forcibly removes him from power.
Introduction
At the beginning of the play, Duncan is presented as generous and trusting. His compassionate attitude seems to be the cause of his downfall. The characterisation of Duncan possibly aims to appease King James I. The Gunpowder plot might have influenced the characterisation as well. The play uses natural imagery when the divine right of kings is disrupted. The natural imagery 'begun to plant [Macbeth] and make [him] full of growing' symbolizes legitimacy and innate purity. Duncan's death is described as a 'sacrilegious breach in nature', emphasizing the great chain of being. The play portrays Duncan as worthy, highlighting his birthright and goodness of heart. Macbeth's forcible removal of the ruler ordained by God is portrayed as a cruel and evil act, rendering him unfit to rule.
Development
As the play progresses, Macbeth is depicted as an illegitimate king who rules tyrannically and savagely. This is explored through other characters' reactions to his leadership. The heavens are described as 'troubled with man's act [Macbeth killing Duncan]', using personification to imply punishment for Macbeth's illegitimate reign. Dark imagery and pathetic fallacy illustrate that the kingdom can only prosper under a legitimate ruler. The play implies that anyone who tries to usurp legitimate rulers will meet their bitter demise for going against God so brazenly. This might be seen as royalist propaganda aimed at creating loyalty through fear of divine intervention if regicide is committed.
Conclusion
Finally, the play contrasts Macbeth with Duncan to explore ideas about legitimacy and the results of a monarch gaining power through illegitimate means. The natural imagery associated with Duncan, such as 'silver skin laced with his golden blood' and fertile imagery 'begun to plant', contrasts with the 'fruitless crown' and 'barren sceptre' associated with Macbeth. This contrast highlights the unnatural means through which Macbeth became king and foreshadows his short-lasting reign due to corruption and illegitimacy. This demonstrates the futility of removing a monarch ordained by God, warning those questioning the power of man against God's intentions and actions.
