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How the Character of Macbeth Changes Between Act I Scene iii, and Act III Scene I

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How the Character of Macbeth Changes Between Act I Scene iii, and Act III Scene I

Shakespeare uses many different methods to show that Macbeth changes greatly between Act I Scene iii and Act III Scene i, these include his use of language in speeches and directional action. Banquo's reaction in Act I Scene iii shows that Macbeth is initially afraid of the prophecy. Macbeth's own speech indicates that he is unsure of the truth in what he has been told, but is both intrigued and excited by the thought of becoming king, however, he is confused by his inner thoughts of murder and deceit. His speech in Act I Scene iii shows that he is still loyal to Banquo. However, by Act III Scene i his irrational …show more content…

He asks Macbeth, "Why do you start and seem to fear, things that do sound so fair?" The word 'start' suggests that Macbeth has jumped in fright and bewilderment. The phrase 'seem to fear,' shows us that Macbeths' expression betrays the fact that he is shocked and in awe of what the witches have said. ======================================================================

In Act I, Scene iii, Macbeth is still acting friendly to Banquo, even though he is starting to perceive him as a threat. This is shown by the two quotes, "My thought, whose murder yet is but fantastical," and, "'till then, come friends." The words, 'My thoughts,' and, 'yet is but fantastical,' indicate that he is thinking about murder, but as yet does not know why and that he is deciding not to act upon his thoughts yet, but to leave them to fate. The phrase, 'Come friends,' shows that he is still acting friendly to the other characters, when we know that he is really dwelling on the thought of murder. ======================================================================

However, in Act III Scene i, Macbeth's desperation to remain king has grown, and his friendship with Banquo is coming second place to him being king. This is shown by the quote, "upon my head they placed a fruitless crown, and put a barren sceptre in my grip." The

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