Does Macbeth appear to belong to any religion or have any belief in God (esp. one of the branches of Christianity)? Or does he distance himself from a belief in God? What textual evidence supports your opinion?
Bonus question: what about Lady Macbeth?
Bonus bonus: Banquo?
In my opinion, Macbeth does not show any signs that he is respectful of and follows a certain religion. Throughout the play, Macbeth never once prays or has any confrontation with anyone about religion at that time. In fact, when faced with the idea of going to Hell for killing Duncan, he quickly discards the idea, showing his overall thoughts about religion.
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ReplyDeleteI agree with Jack, Macbeth seems to show a complete disregard for religion, though I do believe he practices some sort of Christianity. As Macbeth says in Act 1 Scene 7, "But here, upon this bank and shoal of time, We'd jump the life to come"(6-7). This was said during Macbeth's contemplation of murder. He was overcome with uncertainty, but stated that he was willing to risk the fate of his soul to obtain the power of the king. This indicates to me that Macbeth believes in hell, and accepts it as his final destination. Which shows that he believes in some branch of Christianity, but isn't bound by its rules.
Macbeth seems to be the person who claims to be tolerant of all religions, yet only practice one when it is cinvinient for him. He clearly doesn't practice a religion during the text as of act 4, because multiple murders, lying, and general deceit of this level seems to contradict all religion. (Except maybe early Mongols... and maybe not even then)
ReplyDeleteIn Act 1 Macbeth seems to be aware of spiritual consequences from christianity like hell in the after life. This may take part in why he had moral qualms in the beginning of the play when he was plotting the murder of Duncan. Although he is aware of the consequences, he does distance himself from his belief as the play goes on. Agreeing with Jack and David above, Macbeth holds Christian beliefs, but not strong enough that they alter his decisions. This weak hold of religion becomes almost non-existent as he becomes blinded with his thirst for power. Showing how quickly he let go of religion it is clear that he had no tight relation ship with God. God does not equal Macbeth's homie.
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