Introduction: Misunderstanding Shakespearean Characters

Shakespeare's works have stood the test of time, captivating audiences and providing a wealth of insight into the human condition. One common discussion pertains to the characters of Brutus and Lady Macbeth from 'Julius Caesar' and 'Macbeth'. Many believe that these characters are misunderstood, yet a closer examination reveals that they are often not as enigmatic as they seem. This article delves into the misinterpretations or, more accurately, the lack thereof, associated with Brutus and Lady Macbeth. We will explore the motivations and actions of these characters and why they have not been misunderstood.

Brutus: A Politically Minded Historical Figure

Brutus is a historical character in 'Julius Caesar'. According to Markoff, Brutus's motivations were purely political. When Caesar was becoming increasingly tyrannical, Brutus, along with other senators, decided to take action to restore the Roman Republic. Brutus believed that the assassination of Caesar was a necessary step to prevent a potential dictatorship. His actions were driven by his desire to preserve the democratic structure of Rome, not by personal ambitions or emotions.

Brutus's Political Motives

Brutus is often portrayed as a noble and virtuous character, yet his actions were a result of political considerations and a sense of duty. He was a member of the Roman Senate and saw Caesar's rise to power as a threat to the Republic. JB argues that Brutus was used by others for political purposes, but this does not change the fundamental nature of his actions. His decision to join the conspiracy against Caesar was a political move, reflecting his commitment to the common good rather than individual gain. The historical context of Brutus's actions shows that his motivations were primarily political, and his character remains a misunderstood figure when taken out of this context.

Lady Macbeth: A Complex Character with Ambition

Lady Macbeth's character in 'Macbeth' is often seen as deeply complex, and there are elements of her that may seem contradictory or misunderstood at first glance. However, upon closer examination, Lady Macbeth's actions and motives can be understood within the context of her time and her relationship with her husband.

Lady Macbeth's Motivation

Lady Macbeth is often depicted as a heartless and ambitious figure who pushes her husband to commit regicide. While she does show no mercy and plays a crucial role in the plot, it is important to understand her motivations. According to JB, Lady Macbeth's primary motivation was ambition, both for herself and her husband. However, a2a points out that Lady Macbeth is not misunderstood, as she is portrayed as a woman supporting her husband, aiding him in his ambitions. This support was common in the hierarchical structure of medieval society.

Lady Macbeth's actions can be seen as a product of her ambition and her desire to see her husband succeed. She is not purely evil but a figure driven by her ambitions and her strong bond with Macbeth. Her push for Macbeth to murder the king was a means to ensure their power and status within the kingdom. In a sense, she is seen as a product of her time, a woman who operates within the confines of the societal norms of her era.

The Misunderstanding: A Construct for Political Use

Both Brutus and Lady Macbeth are often subject to misinterpretation or oversimplification, particularly when their characters are used for political or ideological purposes. Brutus's actions are often seen as noble and pure, while Lady Macbeth is viewed as manipulative and cruel. However, these interpretations can be overly simplified and mislead readers or viewers into believing that their characters are one-dimensional.

Brutus's political motivations are often overshadowed by his portrayal as a noble martyr, while Lady Macbeth's actions are frequently misunderstood as pure evil. This misinterpretation can lead to a distorted understanding of their characters and the political and social context in which they exist. By delving into the historical and social contexts of Shakespeare's plays, we can better appreciate the complexity of these characters and the misconceptions surrounding them.

Conclusion: The Complexity of Shakespeare's Characters

Brutus and Lady Macbeth are not misunderstood; rather, they are characters shaped by the political and social contexts of their respective plays. While their actions may be complex and multifaceted, their motivations can be understood within the framework of their times. By understanding the historical and societal context of these plays, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the layers of complexity within these characters. The actions of Brutus and Lady Macbeth should not be judged solely by modern standards but by those that shaped their decisions. Shakespeare’s plays continue to offer rich insights into human nature, and it is through these enriched understandings that we can better comprehend the nuances of these timeless characters.

References

"Brutus was a historical character and his motivations were purely political as Caesar was losing his marbles." - JB

“Do we not bleed” he is explaining why he wants to commit a murder not asking for help. - A2A