Introduction
Ambition, or an eager desire to achieve one’s goals, usually power or wealth, is a popular theme that permeates literary pieces. Using the well-known stories of Beowulf and Macbeth, this essay explores the two heroic characters’ ambitions comparatively. Both literary works depict ambition as a contributor to the protagonists’ decisions and even deaths, but the characters differ in terms of whether their ambitiousness is limited to personal achievement.
Assertions and Techniques Used
The two works feature dissimilar statements regarding the theme and literary techniques to communicate certain beliefs. In The Tragedy of Macbeth, assertions regarding the introduced theme refer to ambition’s ability to keep the unmotivated and depressed person going, thus acting as the last source of energy (Shakespeare 41). For example, Shakespeare uses such techniques as direct speech and metaphor to make Macbeth acknowledge that he has “no spur to prick the sides of [his] intent, but only vaulting ambition” (41).
Beowulf’s unknown author asserts that the protagonist’s ambition is more collectivistic and pertains to the Geats’ well-being rather than Beowulf’s personal achievement (68). The anonymous author resorts to direct speech and inclusive plural pronouns as techniques to demonstrate Beowulf’s other-orientedness when it comes to ambition. Particularly, when announcing his people’s plan to go to Hygelac, Beowulf uses the collective “we,” stating that “we… achieved our desire [in Denmark]” (Beowulf 68). Therefore, the interpretations of the theme involve the questions of non-individualistic mindsets and ambition as a substitute for motivation.
Similarities Between the Stories’ Ambition Themes
The similarities pertaining to the theme are that both protagonists’ ambitions are strong and eventually lead them into no-win situations. Halfdane’s son admires Beowulf’s enormous ambition, stating that his “fame runs everywhere,” with most nations being aware of his bravery (Beowulf 63). Notably, Macbeth’s desire to seek recognition is equally strong, enabling him to destroy Duncan’s power (Shakespeare 35).
Beowulf’s collectivist values and concern for his people’s safety motivate him to fight the dragon, resulting in his “last glorious deed” (Beowulf 97). Similarly, Macbeth’s ambition paves the way for his very last confrontation. Wishing to protect himself and retain power, Macbeth murders Macduff’s family, and Macduff finally takes revenge and kills the “bloody villain” (Shakespeare 185). Overall, both stories depict the protagonists’ desire for achievement as enormous and partially responsible for their violent deaths.
Differences Between the Themes of Ambition
The key differences between the stories refer to egoism and deception as they relate to the characters’ goals. Macbeth’s ambition is tied to individual success, and he is extremely enthusiastic when referred to as “Macbeth that shall be king hereafter,” as power over others is his greatest desire (Shakespeare 17). Beowulf does not feature such egoistic intentions and dreams of helping others by defeating monsters terrorizing his fellow monarchs’ lands (Beowulf 12).
The next dissimilarity between the two is that Beowulf’s desire for power does not transform him into a liar wishing to destroy his rivals through deception. For instance, he repeatedly denies “the need…for secrecy” during his journey to fight Grendel (Beowulf 14). In contrast, Macbeth resorts to deceptive behaviors to satisfy his ambition, acting as “an innocent flower” despite planning to kill Duncan (Shakespeare 35). Thus, unlike Macbeth, Beowulf is driven by the need to keep his close ones protected and achieve it openly and directly.
Conclusion
Finally, comparisons between the selected stories offer insights into the theme of ambition. Beowulf and Macbeth do not feature the same degree of moral excellence and concern for others, so ambition cannot be called an inherently positive or negative quality. Furthermore, based on the comparative analysis, the characteristic in question should not be considered synonymous with selfishness, as it can also coexist with altruism. Thus, the analysis helps dispel incorrect assumptions about striving for one’s goals as an indicator of ethical principles.
Works Cited
Beowulf. Translated by Anthony S. Kline, 2012. World Library, Web.
Shakespeare, William. The Tragedy of Macbeth. Edited by Barbara A. Mowat and Paul Werstine, Folger Shakespeare Library, 2013. Folger, Web.