In the play Macbeth, we witness Macbeth's transformation from an honest and courageous human being to a dark and dishonest man, full of greed and craving power. Various acts of loyalty and betrayal take place throughout the play, and these acts help pave the way for the rest of the plot. We witness a series of betrayals that act similarly to unstable bricks, with each betrayal adding more consequence and weight to the next until they all collapse. This was the case with Macbeth, where he would betray his old friends and essentially ruin their lives, until eventually these betrayals returned the favor to him. All of Macbeth's betrayals prove to be of fundamental importance, as each one will drastically change the terrain of the play. Themes of loyalty and betrayal sculpt Macbeth's plot and alter the characters' complex personalities. At the beginning of the play Macbeth, Macbeth is an extremely honest, loyal, and humble individual. He cares more about the well-being of others than his own. Numerous people admire his courage and loyalty to his King, including the captain who says, “For brave Macbeth – well, he deserves that name – Disdaining fortune, with his steel brandished” (1.2 ll. 16). The Captain's words indicate just how brave and loyal Macbeth is towards his king Duncan. Macbeth put his life on the line to protect his kingdom, and not only did he protect it, but he led the army to a heroic victory. Macbeth also expresses his appreciation and dedication to King Duncan. He says: «The service and loyalty I owe, in doing so, are repaid» (1.4 ll. 22). Macbeth is now responding to the praise he has received from King Duncan and once again reiterates his loyalty to Duncan. Macbeth says he has no need of… the middle of paper… the edge of the sword / His wife, his children, and all the unfortunate souls / That trace him in his line” (4.1 ll 150). Macbeth's anger reaches its peak at this point in the play; now it is relentless. Since Macbeth believes that Macduff is now a traitor, he will show no mercy and will eliminate anyone related to Macduff. Macbeth began as a loyal, humble, and honest individual. As the plot progressed and witches came into play, Macbeth began to transform into a character who would not hesitate to kill someone as prestigious as a king or someone as kind as his closest friend. We have seen a complete change of heart from Macbeth, as his greed and desire to become king have changed his attitude and outlook on life. All of these heinous actions of Macbeth come back to haunt him, as he is the one who is betrayed and justice is served to Scotland..