A comparative approach on the theme of over-ambition concerning Shakespeare's tragic Hero Macbeth and Pharaoh with reference to the Holy Quran

Abstract

Ambition is good, but being over-ambitious can be quite tasking. It is an issue that has been greatly portrayed by Shakespeare in his writing the tragedy of Macbeth. The play depicts damaging physical and psychological effects of political ambition on those who seek power for its own sake. The same is also witnessed in the history and life of the pharaoh, as depicted in the Holy Quran as he enslaves the children of Israel against the will of Allah. The study will tackle the tragedy of Macbeth and how over-ambition lead to his failure and how the same was witnessed of the pharaoh. This paper highlights the deed that compares both Macbeth and Pharaoh. The two characters are over-ambitious about the kingship and power, which makes them commit murders to secure and retain power. It is very important to be ambitious as a leader as it helps in attaining many things, however, in the case of Macbeth and Pharaoh, their ambitions result in deaths which no religion or society accepts as it is sinful. The comparisons of the two characters are highlighted in how they are similar, as well as how they are different. Their deeds are based on the teachings of the Holy Quran to depict how sinful their actions are, and how they did not please Allah.

Keywords

• Shakespeare
• Macbeth
• Murder
• Killing
• Tragedy
• , over-ambition
• Pharaoh

References

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