My essay on “Women in Macbeth”
Timeless “Macbeth”
16th century England was not the same as it is today socially. Women, no matter what age, or education, were neglected. Not only were they unnoticed, but purposely ignored in the works of art, such as Shakespeare’s works. The only woman recognized from that age was Queen Elizabeth I. She had power, beauty, and intelligence. Thanks to her love for performing arts, she promoted Shakespeare and his writing. William could have never repaid her, so I believe that is why he included so many women with huge influences on the situations in his plays.
In “Macbeth”, Shakespeare uses the character Lady Macbeth as an icon for powerful women. As the play progresses and murders occur, she is the one that influences the main character, a Macbeth, to do as she pleases. “What beast was’t then, that made you break this enterprise to me? When durst do it, then you were a man; And to be more than what you were, you would be so much more the man. Nor time nor place did then adhere, and yet you would make both. They have made themselves, and that is their fitness now.” (1.7.53–61). As it is seen, Shakespeare portrays Lady Macbeth as a controlling woman, who will do anything to be powerful above all others. She does this by insulting her husband, calling him “not manly”, and that he doesn’t have the courage, nor will to do what has to be done, in this case, kill King Duncan.
In today’s society, we do not have such drama at a high level like portrayed in Shakespeare’s plays. In the 21st century, women are taking over but in a fairer, un-cruel way. In some marriages women make the decisions about home design, and vacations. These might not seem like big differences in one’s life, but they do affect the end outcome. Even though women are not presidents or famous case layers, they still have the potential to influence society from an underground way.
Shakespeare being one of the only Renaissance men that actually acknowledged women as creative, and smart creatures I agree with how he depicted the “weaker” sex. He got his break, because of the Queen’s love for the arts. He represented women as sneaky, vicious creatures that will kill, if it benefits them in any way. The Queen herself was pictured in history books, as a woman of not only great power, but also great beauty, which she used to manipulate the senate into signing her laws, and swinging votes her way. I think that he used Elizabeth as an example and a model to paint his picture of a true woman.
Throughout the 400 years ever since Macbeth was written, things have changed dramatically for women in our society. We can now do so much more. This is definitely a great thing. But that also leads to more evil from the females. As we are able to hold more political and business positions, we have a greater and greater influence on the world; for example Condoleezza Rice has one of the highest positions in the cabinet. Many of our presidents have turned to their wives in a time when they need advice, instead of their administration. We don’t need a woman president to create changes for females; it’s been done over and over- voting rights, schooling rights, etc. “Does unmake you. I have given suck, and know How tender ’tis to love the babe that milks me. I would, while it was smiling in my face, have plucked my nipple from his boneless gums and dashed the brains out, had I so sworn as you have done to this”. (1.7.62–67) Women have done so much for this society, making it a better place; they are willing to go to extreme causes to make things go their way.
Throughout the years, women have been an important part of our society. Even almost half a century ago, Shakespeare knew that. He did not neglect, who he knew, was the sneakier, and wise sex. He wasn’t going to ignore the fact that men are easily influenced by female attributes.
