How does Shakespeare present kingship in Macbeth?

Kings in the time of Shakespeare (1600s) were considered God's representatives on earth, divinely appointed to carry out God's law. It is linked to the idea of the "Divine Right of Kings". In "Macbeth", one of the ways Shakespeare explores the idea of kingship through Macbeth's actions. Macbeth unlawfully seizes the throne by murdering Duncan. He demonstrates the traits that go against the divine right and God, as he takes counsel from the three witches. In this way, kingship in "Macbeth" is shown as something that is divinely appointed by contrasting the way Macbeth takes over the throne and the other kingly figures in the play such as Duncan and Macduff.

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Answered by Sharon C. English Literature tutor

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