Dec 3, 2008

Macbeth | Lady Macbeth: A Liberated Woman?

In this essay, R. Moore discusses Lady Macbeth's actions throughout the play with respect to the feminine elements of her character.

The question of Lady Macbeth’s degree of liberation may be seen from two opposing viewpoints. If we define a "liberated woman" as one who has found her own strength, one who is able to function independently of the traditional subservient roles, Lady Macbeth clearly does not fit. She defines herself, and is defined by others, as a wife to Macbeth. Her ambitions are for him, and she willingly places herself in a secondary position in their relationship. She acknowledges his primary social position and his superior physical strength, and does not attempt to compete with him.

She...