Critical Essay
Macduff- A man on a mission
One of the lords describes Macduff as a man on a mission, who has left home seeking the support of King Edward in order to stop the shedding of innocent blood in Scotland, and to restore peace in his land, so that its people may live in harmony. But by being an ideal nobleman, was Macduff ignoring his duty to his family? It is unfair to declare that Macduff fails as a father and does not protect his wife and children.
Macbeth sends a messenger to bring Macduff back to his court. The latter however, keen to complete his task, refuses to obey the order. This openness shows his dedication to his cause, and that he is unafraid of the cruel king. But, his wife is not aware of the seriousness of the situation and the reason for his leaving his mansion without his family. She comments bitterly that he does not love his family and has fled in fear. Her words, spoken in extreme fear, may not be taken as evidence of Macduff’s character. Ross, her kinsman, consoles her by saying that Macduff is no coward. He is on the contrary, noble, wise and judicious. He knows what has to be done in those uncertain times. These comments tell us how Macduff was regarded by his kinsmen.
Even Macduff’s son gives him a testimony. When the murderers enter their castle and tell them that Macduff is a traitor, his son defends his father by saying that the killer is a liar and a villain. Macduff must have been a loving and caring father, because his son supports him even in the face of death.Macduff tells Malcolm that as women are being widowed and children orphaned, it is their duty as leaders to fight evil with their swords. When Malcolm suspects him of being a spy of Macbeth, because he has left his family behind in Scotland, he scolds him by saying that he should not be mournful or suspicious, but should stand up against evil. Macduff spends his time convincing Malcolm to fight and behaves responsibly on all occasions. He is utterly shocked and sorrowful at the loss of his family and revenges their death. He accomplishes his goal by killing Macbeth in battle. He is a great leader, who loses his family due to a madman’s cruelty and cannot be called a parent who failed his sons. He was infact, a father that his son is proud of, and a role-model for young leaders such as Malcolm.
