Macbeth's Ethical Dilemma and the Consequences of Tax Evasion

The character of Macbeth in Shakespeare’s tragic play, Macbeth, offers a profound exploration of the ethical dilemma faced by members of the ruling class when confronted with the demands of taxation. This essay will delve into Macbeth’s personal response to a tax demand, the evolution in his thinking, and the ultimate consequences of his actions.

The Initial Response: A Expression of Heart-Felt Distress

Macbeth's initial reaction, "What you jest, you knave!" (Act 2, Scene 3), signals the internal turmoil he experiences. This statement is not merely a verbal retort but a deeply felt emotion reflecting his moral and social conscience. The use of the word "knave" (implying a deceiver or trickster) signifies that Macbeth recognizes his interaction as deceitful and contrived. His distress is palpable, indicating a genuine concern for the implications of their actions.

The Evolution of Macbeth's Thinking

The second scene of Act 2 follows Macbeth’s progression of thoughts, where his moral compass begins to shift. Initially, he grapples with the burden of fulfilling his responsibilities while also considering the impact of his actions on the community. The evolution is further emphasized with the phrase, "how shall our malice in this case lie hid?" (Act 2, Scene 3), indicating his increasing awareness of the ethical implications of withholding taxes.

Macbeth’s struggle intensifies as he contemplates his duties. The play reaches a critical juncture when Macbeth encounters auditors, forcing him to make a decision. This pivotal moment prompts him to consider the consequences of his actions and the potential repercussions on his community. The realization that he must either fulfill the tax demand or face severe penalties leads him to a life-altering choice: he opts to defraud the system, moving himself and his assets offshore. This decision not only alienates him from his previous community but also isolates him from Lady Macbeth, who remains trapped in the moral and emotional aftermath of their actions.

The Tragic Fate of Lady Macbeth

As Macbeth’s actions become more consequential and his moral choices more extreme, the tragedy of Lady Macbeth comes into sharp focus. She, caught in the crossfire of Macbeth’s decisions, feels the weight of the consequences they together imposed. The line "Great Glamis! Worthy Cawdor! Greater than Cawdor by the slave that made him so" (Act 4, Scene 3) echoes her sense of betrayal and disappointment in Macbeth. This quote underscores the tragic figure of Lady Macbeth, left to face the music alone, as she cannot support the community or their joint ventures anymore.

The play's final scenes underscore the personal and communal devastation that results from Macbeth's ethical and financial missteps. His inability to reconcile his desire to support his community with his selfish choices leads to his ultimate downfall, not just in the public eye but also in his personal life. The isolation of Lady Macbeth reflects the broader theme of the play: the price of power and the cost of compromising one's ethical standards.

Conclusion and Reflection

Macbeth’s personal response to a tax demand encapsulates a broader ethical dilemma faced by leaders and individuals in positions of power. The play illustrates how such dilemmas can lead to internal conflict, moral decay, and catastrophic outcomes. Shakespeare’s exploration of these themes serves as a timeless reminder of the ethical implications of our actions and the consequences of misusing power.