The character Macbeth from William Shakespeare's play Macbeth changes from a brave, honourable soldier that we are introduced to at the beginning of the play to a malicious tyrant seen near the end. This deterioration of his personality occurs after hearing the witches' prophecy and this forms the basis of the plot.

Macbeth is a good man at the beginning of the play whose bravery in battle is respected by all. King Duncan refers to him as "noble Macbeth" and after Scotland's victory over Norway is rewarded with the title of the Thane of Cawdor. Macbeth is shown to be a caring and compassionate man in his relationship with his wife, Lady Macbeth - "my dearest love." His only flaw apparent is his "vaulting ambition" and this is shown through his excitement when the witches tell him he is to become King. However, he recognises this trait and...