Here is the link to an article about the correlation between an individual’s position in society and their neurochemical makeup. Research has shown that power can be just as addictive as a drug, making itself apparent through certain mannerisms that range from a greater level of intelligence to lack of good judgement. These neurological changes in the brain are associated primarily with dopamine, a chemical messenger that allows one to feel pleasure. Not only does one’s levels of dopamine rise when in a position of power, it makes this individual much less likely to willingly give up their social or political standing. Macbeth undergoes a shift in his behavior when he is crowned king. His apprehension to kill Duncan after being advised to do so by Lady Macbeth is a feeling that comes much easier due to the fact that he hasn’t tasted absolute and unchecked power. As soon as he is in the position of power, Macbeth harvests internal greed and a satisfaction with his seating on the throne. Addiction is linked to an increased lack of empathy towards others, especially of a lower position of dominance. Macbeth’s decreased empathy allows him to feel less internal conflict when condemning others to death who threaten his reign. A symptom of high levels of dopamine is paranoia, something Macbeth clearly exhibits in his overwhelming concern that Banquo’s lineage with take the throne from him. His constant paranoia around the prophecy is what leads him to make irrational and impulsive decisions that catapult him to his ultimate demise.
I find the connection between corruption and addiction particularly interesting. After the murder of Duncan, Macbeth becomes an entirely different man who has nothing to do with the kind and loyal self he used to be. Thanks to Lady Macbeth's push, Macbeth commits the horrible crime of murder, which is the first step he takes toward his downfall. Then, just like addiction, Macbeth takes it step by step and he can't stop. Macbeth can't resist his desire for power that he keeps making irrational and impulsive decisions, just like he can't resist the allure of the witches' prophecy in the first place.
ReplyDeleteI find your research fascinating. Macbeth is certainly corrupted by power. I'd argue that his greed starts earlier than when he becomes king. While he certainly was much more clear headed due to a natural ascension to power, the moment when he became the thane of Glamis and Cawdor is when I see his desires take hold. He has had his first taste of power over the men that once were his equals, and the witches promise that he will be king. Though Lady Macbeth certianly fuels Macbeth's killing of Duncan, it's his desire to become king that guides Macbeth to kill the King. In my eyes, the promise of absolute power is what led Macbeth to corruption, not absolute power itself. Thane of Glamis and Cawdor caused his addiction, and the desire for a stronger dose (king of scotland) comes from that.
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