Act 4 - Ambition

Act 4 - Ambition

The definition of ambition is defined as being a strong desire to do or achieve something, which requires hard work and determination. This is a major theme in the fourth act of Macbeth, as many characters plan revenge and murder.

• Act 4, scene 1 : After meeting with the witches in Hades, Macbeth is determined to secure his future as king for as long as he lives. That is why he’s determined to get rid of all his enemies, including one of his former friends, Macduff. The ghost summoned by the witches warn Macbeth of Macduff and to stay clear of him. That is why he later ambitions to kill him, no matter what the cost.
• First Apparition : «Macbeth! Macbeth! Macbeth! Beware Macduff!» (p.63, line 71).
• Macbeth : «The castle of Macduff I will surprise, Seize upon Fife, give to th' edge o' th' sword. His wife, his babes, and all unfortunate souls, That trace him in his line. No boasting like a fool.» (p.66, lines 150-153).

• Act 4, scene 2 : Although this scene doesn’t contain a specific action relating to ambition, the violent murder of Lady Macduff and her children, prove how Macbeth is driven by his own ambition. He will kill innocent people to become king.  

• Act 4, scene 3 : In this scene, Macduff arrives in England in search of Malcolm, who is clueless to the events surrounding Macbeth. Macduff explains what the situation is, but Malcolm finds himself wondering if he should trust him or not. He then fabricates a story in order to get a reaction from Macduff, telling him if what’s said is really true. Malcolm is ambitious to discover the truth.
• Malcolm : «Macduff, this noble passion, Child of integrity, hath from my soul, Wiped the black scruples, reconciled my thoughts, To thy good truth and honor» (p.75, lines 114 - 117).