The central theme in Macbeth is how the ambition for power ultimately corrupts. This theme finds its most powerful expression through the play's two main characters. Macbeth is a noble general who's intention are not to commit cruel deeds, yet he strives for power and advancement. He slaughters Duncan against all moral judgment only to be tormented by guilt and paranoia afterwards. Toward the end of the play Macbeth is on a downward spiral continuing with corruption and abusing his power; as seen with the murder of Macduff`s family. Shakespeare, on the other hand, uses Lady Macbeth as the moral fibre behind the immoral acts. She urges Macbeth to kill Duncan to achieve the status she craves, and urges him to be strong in the bloody aftermath. In every situation ambition, pushed along of course by the witches prophecies, is what drives the couple to every terrible...