Gender and Power in Macbeth

Shakespeare portrays women as weak and powerless in the play Macbeth. This is evident through the character of Lady Macbeth, who is driven to madness and suicide due to her guilt and powerlessness in the face of her husband's actions.

The language in Macbeth equates childhood with emasculation by associating it with weakness and vulnerability. Lady Macbeth accuses Macbeth of having the 'eye of childhood' when he hesitates to return to the body of Duncan, suggesting that his reluctance is indicative of a lack of manliness.

Pity has no place in the world of Macbeth. It is described as a 'naked new-born babe' that must be extinguished, just like the children in the play. Lady Macbeth even imagines killing a suckling baby, symbolizing the absence of compassion in this violent world.

<p>Macbeth's reaction to Banquo's ghost reveals his perception of his own masculinity. He berates himself for being the 'baby of a girl,' which can be interpreted as a metaphor for weakness and lack of masculinity. Only when the ghost disappears can he regain his sense of manhood.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>There are several examples of violence towards children in Macbeth. Lady Macbeth imagines killing a suckling baby by dashing its brains out. The witches also put the finger of a strangled baby into their cauldron. Additionally, Macduff is described as being 'untimely ripped' from his mother's womb.</p> Signup and view all the answers