How is Lady Macbeth presented in Shakespeare's Macbeth?

Whilst Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' may indicate that it is Macbeth himself that is the central protagonist, Lady Macbeth is instead the one who captures the audience's attention. This is because Lady Macbeth defies the conventions of her time; outspoken and incredibly influential, Lady Macbeth challenges the conventions of what it means to be a 'Shakespearian woman'. Indeed, this is most explicitly encapsulated in her demand to the gods, "unsex me here", insinuating that her gender would preclude her from committing the devious and harsh actions that she had in mind.

TA
Answered by Tania A. English tutor

5141 Views

See similar English GCSE tutors

Related English GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Steinbeck presents loneliness as an inescapable part of the characters’ lives in Of Mice and Men. To what extent do you agree with this statement?


What is close reading?


Explore the descriptive use of colour by Steinbeck in order to portray Curley's wife


How does Priestley explore the importance of social class in An Inspector Calls?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning