Challenging Gender Roles: A Closer Look at the Ambitious Women In Hamlet
and Macbeth
A Research Report
Submitted to Department of English
In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for Course
ENG-310 entitled “Shakespeare”
EAST WEST UNIVERSITY, DHAKA
Date : 31st December, 2023
AUTHORSHIP STATEMENT
We now declare that this research report is our own work and this paper has not been submitted
anywhere for any award. Other sources of information have been used and acknowledged in this
paper.
Tasfia Binte Nur Orthy
Nishat Lubna Islam
Jannatul Mawa
Abstract
This research paper examines the portrayal of ambitious women in two renowned Shakespearean
tragedies, Hamlet and Macbeth. In a society deeply rooted in patriarchal norms, Lady Macbeth
and Queen Gertrude defy traditional gender roles by displaying ambition, assertiveness, and
agency. First, this paper delves into their motivations, actions, and ultimate fates through a
comparative analysis to explore how Shakespeare challenged societal expectations of women's
roles in these iconic plays. Secondly, it also examines feminism and deconstructive theory in
these plays, showing how they challenge societal norms and subvert the male. This paper sheds
light on Shakespeare's timeless relevance in questioning traditional views of gender and
authority.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgement … … … … … … i
Authorship Statement … … … … … … ii
ABSTRACT… … … … … …iii
Table of Contents … … … … … …iv
CHAPTER 1 … … … … … … 1
1.1 Introduction … … … … … … 6
1.2 Objective … … … … … … 6
1.3 Rational… … … … … … 7
1.4 Methodology … … … …7
1.5 Limitations and Delimitations … … … …7
CHAPTER 2 … … … … … … 8
2.1 Operational definitions
2.1.1 Patriarchal Society
2.1.2 Societal Stereotype
2.1.3 Challenging gender roles
2.1.4 Unconventional women
2.2 Theoretical Framework
2.2.1 Deconstruction
2.2.2 Feminism
CHAPTER 3 … … … … … … 11
3.1 Strong and Ambitious Women in 'Macbeth'
3.2 Subversion of the Frailty Stereotype in “Hamlet”
CHAPTER 4 … … … … … … 13
4.1 Lady Macbeth: Subversive of male sexuality and gender:
4.2 : Gertrude: breaking the norms of stereotypes society
Chapter 5
5.1 Conclusion
5.2 Scope for further study
Work of Cite
CHAPTER ONE
Introduction
1.1 Introduction: Re-reading the Elizabethan Era and their Women’s Position The
Elizabethan Era, characterized by the reign of Queen Elizabeth I from 1558 to 1603, was a
period in which Shakespeare was a writer. The situation of women in this era was not easy.
Women used to be considered lesser creatures than men. Fraser defines a woman as “a creature
physically, intellectually, morally, and even spiritually inferior to a man (Baştan). Furthermore,
Pragati Das (2012) said that during the Elizabethan era, “women were to be seen and not heard”
(Baştan). So, it is evident that women were considered weak characters in Elizabethan
patriarchal society. During that time, Shakespeare depicted strong, ambitious, and assertive
female characters in his plays.
This thesis will explore the strong female characters from Hamlet and Macbeth, written by
Shakespeare, by showing how these strong, complex, and ambitious female characters challenge
deeply rooted social norms.
1.2 Objectives: The objective of this paper is to critically examine and analyze the portrayal of
ambitious female characters, such as Lady Macbeth and Gertrude, in William Shakespeare's
“Hamlet”and “Macbeth” with a focus on how they challenge traditional gender roles. Through
the application of feminist literary theory and the deconstruction of their characters, this study
aims to elucidate the ways in which these female characters subvert established gender norms
and contribute to a broader discourse on gender equality within the context of classic literature.
1.3 Rationale: This research examines how Lady Macbeth and Gertrude challenge traditional
gender roles in Hamlet and Macbeth using feminist theory and deconstruction. Exploring these
characters will help us understand how strong female characters have been portrayed in a society
where women are considered as objects. In a society focused on gender dynamics, this study
deepens our understanding of evolving female roles in literature and society.
1.3 Methodology
This is a library research. Data has been collected through printed books and journals as well as
online resources. The theoretical framework includes the study of deconstruction and feminism.
1.4 Limitations and Declinations
This paper contains information from printed books and journals available in the book market
of Bangladesh and downloadable resources from the internet. Due to the time limitation and
word constraints, the other female characters, Lady Macduff, Ophelia, and the witches, have not
been covered.
CHAPTER TWO
Operational Definitions and Theoretical Framework
This chapter is divided into two sections, The first section introduces four major ideas or issues,
which this paper focuses on. These are the concepts of Patriarchal Society, social stereotypes,
challenging gender roles, and unconventional women. The second section outlines two theories
one is Feminism and another one is deconstructive theory.
2.1 Operational definitions
2.1.1 Patriarchal Society
A patriarchal society is a social structure in which men hold primary positions of power,
authority, and dominance, while women are often relegated to subordinate roles.
2.1.2 Social Stereotype
A societal stereotype is when people assume things about a whole group based on how some of
them are.
2.1.3 Challenging gender roles
Challenging gender roles is about questioning and changing traditional ideas of how people of
different genders should act, so individuals can be themselves and make choices based on their
preferences rather than conforming to societal expectations.
2.1.4 Unconventional women
Women who go against the grain of traditionalism and think outside of the standardized box of
society and do not follow the usual rules and expectations.
2.2 Theoretical Framework
2.2.1 Deconstruction
Deconstruction theory in literature, developed by Jacques Derrida, challenges traditional notions
of language and meaning. It suggests that language is inherently unstable, and meanings are
context-dependent. Deconstruction seeks to reveal contradictions and ambiguities within texts,
showing that they can have multiple interpretations. Key concepts include "difference" and
"binary oppositions". Deconstruction aims to question fixed interpretations, highlighting the
fluidity and complexity of language and literature.
2.2.2 Feminism
Feminism is all about having equal rights and opportunities for all genders. Here, feminism
emerges as a central theme through the characters of Lady Macbeth and Queen Gertrude in
Macbeth and Queen Gertrude in Hamlet. Lady Macbeth defies expectations by actively pursuing
power and encouraging her husband to do the same. Her ambition and manipulation challenge
the notion of women as passive and subservient. Similarly, Queen Gertrude in both plays faces
criticism for her relationships with powerful men, shedding light on the double standards applied
to ambitious women.
CHAPTER THREE
Feminism and challenging male characters
This chapter explores how women in Hamlet and Macbeth challenge traditional gender roles,
using feminism to question and reshape Social stereotypes in these classic Shakespearean plays.
3.1 Strong and Ambitious Women in Macbeth
Lady Macbeth is one of Shakespeare's most iconic, ambitious female characters. She is the wife
of Macbeth, a Scottish nobleman, and she desires power and status for herself and her husband.
Lady Macbeth's ambition is evident from the moment she learns about the witches' prophecies,
which predict that Macbeth will become king. She is determined to make this prophecy a reality,
even if it means murder and manipulation.
She did not just stop being an ambitious woman; she proved her ambition through her actions.
She actively encourages and pressures Macbeth to murder King Duncan in order to seize the
throne. She believes that Macbeth is too weak-willed to take the necessary steps to become king
and thus takes on a dominant role in the conspiracy.
In a society where men were allowed to be ambitious and make decisions, Lady Macbeth
changed the gender dynamic, and she did not think she was incapable of doing such a big thing
just because she was a female. She was giving political opinions and involving herself in politics.
Advising her husband how to act “Look like th’ innocent flower, But be the serpent under ’t”(Act
1, Scene 5). ”To alter favor ever is to fear Leave all the rest to me (Act 1, Scene 5)”; She was
dominating her husband’s thoughts with her intellect and persuasive power. She was clear about
her ambition, and she acted accordingly.
3.2 Subversion of the Frailty Stereotype in Hamlet
In Hamlet, Despite all the criticism because of her hasty marriage after her first husband's death,
Gertrude shows strength by staying composed during challenging situations, like the political
chaos in Denmark. Her ability to handle these difficulties suggests that she possesses resilience
and inner strength, contradicting the stereotype of women as emotionally fragile.
She does not give up her position as Queen to help Hamlet in his vengeance, as a mother might
have done. Instead, she focuses on what is best for the state and does not let her emotions dictate
her actions (Samuelsson).
“Gertrude: Hamlet, thou hast thy father much offended
Hamlet: Mother, you have my father much offended.
Gertrude: Come, come, you answer with an idle tongue.
Hamlet: Go, go, you question with a wicked tongue.
Gertrude: Why, how now, Hamlet!
Hamlet: What's the matter now? (Act 3, Scene 4)”
In this conversation, Despite the emotional intensity of the situation and Hamlet's harsh words,
Gertrude maintains her composure and asserts herself, refusing to be emotionally shattered. This
moment can be seen as an example of her inner strength and the complexity of her character,
subverting the stereotype of women as emotionally frail.
Here, we can see Gertrude was more emotionally strong and rational thinker than Hamlet.
Hamlet did not think about the consequences that might happen due to his actions. That's why
absurdity is seen in his behaviors but Gertrude has shown her emotional strength and has done
things that were needed for the betterment.
CHAPTER FOUR
Deconstruct the stereotypical image of Lady Macbeth and Gertrude
This chapter is divided into two sections. The first section analyzes the subversiveness of male
sexuality and threatening masculinity through Lady Macbeth . The second section analyzes the
deconstruction of stereotype society through Gertrude.
4.1 Lady Macbeth: Subversive of male sexuality and threatening masculinities
The word 'Lady' refers to a woman born with some significant cultural norms and expectations in
the society. However, in Shakespeare's Macbeth , Lady Macbeth deconstructs the idea of woman
in a society and reconstructs it with his ambiguities. The conventional gender roles are not an
insignificant issue in Shakespeare drama and play. However, women became subversive of male
and threatened their masculinity.
The main ambiguous woman in the play is Lady Macbeth. Her ambiguity leads her to subvert the
male character and their gender roles. She intentionally suppresses her natural inclinations for
empathy, compassion, motherhood, and gentleness, typically associated with femininity, in order
to pursue ambition, ruthlessness, and a thirst for power (Panda, 2017).
“Come, you spirits
That tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here,
And fill me from the crown to the toe topful
Of direst cruelty!
(Macbeth, Act 1, Scene 5, line 38-42)”
It is considered that a woman's body is a symbol of 'weakness' . Their 'breast ' is a symbol of
motherhood. Because of their breasts they feel heavy which stops them from acting as a man.
She is praying to her spirit to take away her breasts. Indirectly remove her weakness which stops
her to murder king Duncan .
Another deconstructive concept involves separating the idea of "mother nature" from women's
psychology. In a patriarchal society, motherhood was assigned as another role for women. They
were expected to embody a nurturing maternal nature as a fundamental aspect of their identity as
women. “ Have plucked my nipple from his boneless gums / And dashed the brains out, had I so
sworn as you / Have done to this (Macbeth , Act 1, Scene 7, line 54-59)” . Hence, this statement
exemplifies Lady Macbeth's ambivalence towards distancing herself from traditional femininity.
The act of infanticide symbolizes her deliberate renunciation of motherhood, viewing it as a
method to attain social progress (Verma, 2017). Additionally, she is trying to gain masculinity by
asking to remove her femininity.
4.2 Gertrude: breaking the norms of stereotypes society
In Hamlet, between two feminine characters Gertrude seems to suit in the deconstructive aspects.
After her husband's death, she broke the stereotypical aspects of the society and remarried her
husband's brother. After a husband's demise, societal norms dictate a mourning period for
women, accompanied by specific attire. However, Gertrude challenges these traditional
expectations placed upon widows within a male-dominated societal framework.
According to Jardine (1989: 39), Gertrude's marriage to Claudius is seen as incestuous within the
context of canon law. This is because, in marrying Claudius, Gertrude was essentially entering
into a union with her deceased husband's brother, which was considered prohibited and classified
as incestuous ("GÜNENÇ , 2015"). However, Shakespeare did not provide Gertrude with a
powerful soliloquy to reveal her inner thoughts. Nevertheless, her actions and presence have
been overshadowed by the male characters, without giving her due attention.
Chapter Five
Conclusion
Walking against the odds: Unconventional women in patriarchal society
This paper tries to look at women's characteristics in Hamlet and Macbeth through a feminist
lens. This paper also talks about the odds of living in a patriarchal society as an unconventional
woman.
5.1 Breaking the shackles of convention
Conventionally, most critics portrayed Lady Macbeth and Queen Gertrude as negative
characters. Shakespeare has shown these female characters mostly from the male point of view.
That is why women's characters are not probably justified to be declared as negative. In societies
where men hold most of the power and influence, when women behave differently from what's
expected, they are often judged negatively or criticized. The ambitious women in Shakespeare's
Hamlet and Macbeth challenge conventional gender roles by actively participating in the pursuit
of power and control. Their actions expose the limitations and injustices imposed by a patriarchal
society, while also underscoring the complexities of individual agency and the consequences of
challenging established norms.
5.2 Scope for further study
This thesis initiates several issues which are not discussed elaborately but have the potential to
be explored. For example, liberal Feminism.
Works cited
Primary sources
William , Shakespeare. The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. England. 1604
William , Shakespeare. The Tragedie of Macbeth. Folio of 1623
Secondary sources
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ResearchGate, Dec. 2019,
[Link]/publication/338371302_The_Elizabethan_Era_and_Shakespeare's
_Women_Characters_in_the_Public_Arena.
Butt, G. S., Khalid, M. N., & Hussain, T. (2022). Theory of Deconstruction:A Study of
Scholastic Scope Thereof. Global Social Sciences Review, VII(I),
46-58.[Link]
GÜNENÇ. Mesut. OPHELIA AND GERTRUDE: VICTIMIZED WOMEN IN HAMLET. Journal
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[Link]/profile/Mesut-Guenenc/publication/289555848_OPHELIA_AND_
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Panda, Prasenjit. When Lady Macbeth becomes a Man: Subversion of Sexuality and Gender in
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Samuelsson, Mathilda. Shakespeare’s Representation of Women : A Feminist Reading of
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[Link]/smash/[Link]?pid=diva2%3A1437875.
Verma, Shweta. Reading Theater from the Image: An Attempt to Deconstruct the Stereotypical
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