Conflict is at the centre of all drama - Junior Cycle English - Question a - 2018

In Act 5, Scene 8, the climactic confrontation between Macbeth and Macduff is a powerful moment of conflict. Macduff, seeking revenge for the murder of his family, confronts Macbeth, declaring, 'Turn, hell-hound, turn!' This moment escalates the tension due to Macduff's emotional turmoil and Macbeth's desperate fight to retain his power. The conflict is heightened by the stakes involved: life and death, right and wrong. This battle not only conveys violence but also serves as a culmination of Macbeth's tyranny, illustrating how conflict propels the narrative and adds dramatic intensity.

In Act 3, Scene 2, the conflict between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth reveals the strain on their relationship as guilt festers. Here, Macbeth expresses his fears about their power, stating, 'We have scotch'd the snake, not kill'd it.' This metaphor signifies their ongoing psychological struggle, as both characters grapple with their newfound power and the consequences of their actions. The tension in this scene underscores how internal conflict can create dramatic moments, showcasing the emotional and moral dilemmas they face, ultimately leading to their downfall.