Witch-slapped: Macbeth's fall from grace

Macbeth mirrors the archetypal "fall of man" from grace. In the play, we see two interpretations of the idiom- the more secular understanding of losing one's prestige, respect, or status, as well as the religious connotation of man's transition from a state of innocence and obedience towards God to one of guilt and disobedience. Thus, Shakespeare's portrayal of this archetype helps us understand how it happens and what the consequences are. For this week's blog post, respond to ONE of the following (be sure to use textual evidence in your response...it will also be wise to include author techniques AND historical/social context as well):

1. Why do people who are not "evil" take the first step into evil? What, for instance, is involved in taking that first step "down the primrose path to the everlasting bonfire" (Macbeth, 2.3)? What are the consequences of the individual choosing evil (particularly the internal consequences)? Use examples from the text to support your opinion.

2. "Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." - Lord Acton
To what extent would Shakespeare agree with this statement? Use the play and your own experience as your support.

3. Do you believe events in your life have been guided by fate or chance? Why or why not? Based on the text, what do you think Shakespeare's attitude was towards fate? Does Macbeth have any choice in his actions or was everything predetermined? Use examples from the text as your support.

4. How does the values of manhood differ in modern times? What do you think it takes to be a good man? Explain how your views are like or unlike those in the play, using examples from the text.