What is Lady Macbeth’s main purpose in the play? How does Shakespeare use her to create dramatic effect and tension?

Macbeth was written in the early 1600’s, by the best dramatist of the time; William Shakespeare. It was written and acted for James I and his brother-in- law. Shakespeare re-wrote the true story to flatter James and his ancestors. Macbeth was also of special interest to the King because of an intense knowledge of witchcraft. Macbeth is entertainment for those who enjoy the suspense and excitement of a murder story; but is also a moral lesson, teaching us that crime doesn’t pay. The play is a great work of language, poetry and imagination, showing that how events in someone’s life can instigate a rapid decline in mental health, driving them to madness and despair.

Lady Macbeth is an ambitious and wicked woman. As soon as Lady Macbeth receives the letter from Macbeth informing her of the witches’ prophecies, she reacts. Immediately after she has finished reading, she has decided she will make sure Macbeth is King, therefore making herself Queen. Her purpose in the play is to p...