Who is the tragic hero in Shakespeare's "Macbeth"?

In Shakespeare's "Macbeth," the tragic hero is indeed Macbeth. A tragic hero is typically a character of noble stature who experiences a downfall due to a tragic flaw (hamartia) and is brought low by fate, their own actions, or both. Macbeth fits this definition well.

Initially, Macbeth is presented as a valiant warrior and a nobleman, holding a high position in Scottish society. However, his encounter with the three witches awakens ambition within him, and he becomes consumed by the desire for power, which leads to his tragic descent. His tragic flaw, or ambition, ultimately drives him to commit regicide by murdering King Duncan. This act sets off a chain of events that lead to his psychological unraveling and subsequent destruction.

Macbeth's internal conflict and subsequent moral decline force the audience to grapple with themes of ambition, guilt, and the consequences of one's choices. His journey from a respected nobleman to a tyrant engulfed in paranoia exemplifies the characteristics of a tragic hero, ultimately leading to his own demise as he faces retribution for his actions. This complexity is what solidifies his role as the central tragic figure in the play.