What does Macbeth mean by the greatest is behind? This question has intrigued scholars and readers for centuries. In Shakespeare’s tragic play, Macbeth, the phrase “the greatest is behind” is a profound statement that carries multiple layers of meaning. It reflects the protagonist’s internal struggle, the cyclical nature of power, and the relentless pursuit of greatness that ultimately leads to his downfall. This article aims to explore the various interpretations of this enigmatic statement and its significance in the play.
In the context of Macbeth, the phrase “the greatest is behind” is most notably used by the protagonist himself. After being crowned king, Macbeth contemplates his achievements and the path he has taken to reach this point. The phrase suggests that he believes he has already reached the pinnacle of greatness and that his greatest accomplishments lie in the past. This self-assessment is a pivotal moment in the play, as it sets the stage for Macbeth’s descent into madness and tyranny.
One interpretation of this statement is that Macbeth is referring to his military prowess and the victories he has achieved on the battlefield. Throughout the play, Macbeth is portrayed as a brave and ambitious soldier, which has earned him the respect and admiration of his peers. However, as he ascends to the throne, he becomes fixated on the idea of maintaining his greatness, leading him to commit regicide and engage in a series of heinous acts. The phrase “the greatest is behind” can be seen as a reflection of his inability to adapt to his new role as a ruler and his fear of losing his status as a great warrior.
Another interpretation of the phrase is that it refers to Macbeth’s ambition for immortality. In Act 3, Scene 1, Macbeth is visited by the witches, who prophesy that he will be king for a long time and that no man can take his throne from him. This prophecy fuels Macbeth’s delusion that he is invincible and that he can continue to expand his power indefinitely. The phrase “the greatest is behind” can be interpreted as Macbeth’s belief that he has already achieved the greatest possible status and that his destiny is to remain in power forever.
Moreover, the phrase “the greatest is behind” can also be seen as a commentary on the cyclical nature of power and the fleeting nature of greatness. Throughout history, there have been countless examples of leaders who rose to power and then fell from grace. Macbeth’s story is no exception, as he is eventually overthrown and killed by Malcolm, the rightful heir to the throne. This cyclical nature of power suggests that Macbeth’s greatest achievements were indeed behind him, and that his reign was merely a temporary phase in the larger narrative of human history.
In conclusion, the phrase “the greatest is behind” in Macbeth is a complex and multi-faceted statement that can be interpreted in various ways. It reflects Macbeth’s internal struggle, his ambition for immortality, and the cyclical nature of power. As readers and scholars continue to explore the depths of this enigmatic phrase, it remains a powerful reminder of the dangers of hubris and the fleeting nature of greatness.
