10 Powerful Lady Macbeth Quotes That Define Ambition

Lady Macbeth is one of the most iconic characters in William Shakespeare's "Macbeth," and her quotes reflect a complex interplay of ambition, desire, and guilt. As a character, she embodies the intense drive for power and status, showcasing how ambition can lead to one's downfall. Here, we’ll delve into ten powerful quotes from Lady Macbeth that define ambition, exploring their meanings and implications for both the character and the broader themes of the play.

1. "Unsex me here, And fill me from the crown to the toe top-full Of direst cruelty!"

This quote encapsulates Lady Macbeth’s desire to cast off her feminine qualities, which she associates with weakness. In her plea to be "unsexed," she is asking for the strength and ruthlessness typically attributed to men in her society. This moment highlights her ambition, as she is willing to relinquish her identity to pursue power at any cost.

2. "Come, you spirits That tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here."

Here, Lady Macbeth calls upon supernatural forces to aid her ambition. By inviting "spirits" to assist her, she reveals her readiness to embrace dark powers and moral corruption in her quest for greatness. This quote signifies her deep desire to transcend ordinary human limitations in pursuit of her goals.

3. "Look like th' innocent flower, But be the serpent under't."

This quote demonstrates Lady Macbeth's tactical approach to ambition. She instructs Macbeth to appear innocent while concealing his deadly intentions. This duality reflects her understanding that ambition often requires deceit and manipulation. Lady Macbeth recognizes that in order to achieve their desires, they must play the role of the gracious host while plotting the murder of King Duncan.

4. "Out, damned spot! Out, I say!"

While this quote comes later in the play, it serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked ambition. As Lady Macbeth descends into madness, her famous line about the "damned spot" symbolizes her guilt over the deeds she has committed. It highlights the psychological toll that ambition can take, leading to inevitable despair and chaos.

5. "What’s done is done."

In this quote, Lady Macbeth acknowledges the irreversible nature of their actions. It reflects her understanding that ambition can lead to irreversible consequences. This phrase encapsulates her attempt to rationalize the murder of Duncan while simultaneously foreshadowing the tragic fallout that will ensue.

6. "I have given suck, and know How tender 'tis to love the babe that milks me."

Lady Macbeth’s words here reveal her internal conflict. While she longs for ambition and power, she is also aware of her capacity for nurturing love. This struggle between femininity and ambition encapsulates the broader theme of gender roles and expectations in the play.

7. "We fail! But screw your courage to the sticking-place And we’ll not fail."

Lady Macbeth's determination shines through this quote as she urges Macbeth to maintain his resolve. It reflects her unyielding ambition, showing that she believes in their potential to succeed despite the looming dangers. Her confidence highlights her role as the driving force behind their actions, solidifying her place as a central character in the narrative of ambition.

8. "All our service, In every point twice done and then done double, Were poor and single business to contend Against those honours deep and broad wherewith Your majesty loads our house."

This quote reveals Lady Macbeth's ambition and desire for acknowledgment. She feels entitled to rewards for their sacrifices, suggesting that her ambition drives her desire for recognition and power within the royal hierarchy. It reflects her belief that greatness should come with significant accolades.

9. "Be innocent of the knowledge, dearest chuck, Till thou applaud the deed."

Lady Macbeth encourages Macbeth to keep his plan a secret until it is accomplished, demonstrating her willingness to take on the role of conspirator. This quote shows her ambition as she seeks to shield her partner from the weight of their intentions until they achieve their goals.

10. "My hands are of your color, but I shame To wear a heart so white."

In this line, Lady Macbeth confronts Macbeth’s guilt and hesitance after Duncan’s murder. She reveals the complexity of her ambition, demonstrating her initial strength in the face of wrongdoing while also foreshadowing the unraveling of both their psyches. This quote reflects the burdens ambition can place on individuals.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What drives Lady Macbeth's ambition?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Lady Macbeth's ambition is primarily driven by her desire for power and status, which she believes can be achieved through the murder of King Duncan.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How does Lady Macbeth's ambition impact her relationship with Macbeth?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Lady Macbeth's ambition initially strengthens her relationship with Macbeth as she encourages him to pursue power, but ultimately leads to guilt and madness, causing a rift between them.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What are the consequences of Lady Macbeth's ambition?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The consequences include her descent into madness, extreme guilt, and eventual death, highlighting the dark side of unchecked ambition.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is Lady Macbeth a victim of her ambition?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, while she is a driving force behind the ambition, she ultimately becomes a victim of the moral and psychological repercussions of her actions.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Lady Macbeth's journey through ambition, power, and guilt illustrates a profound commentary on the nature of desire and its consequences. Her quotes serve as poignant reminders of the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve their aspirations and the burdens they must bear as a result. As readers and scholars, we can learn much from her narrative—both in terms of the dangers of unbridled ambition and the critical importance of self-reflection and responsibility.

<p class="pro-note">🌟Pro Tip: Immerse yourself in the play to fully appreciate the depth of Lady Macbeth’s character and her powerful quotes.</p>