Category: Ambition

The Bible states that God created the perfect angel Lucifer with the intent that Lucifer would remain perfect, so how come he was cast out of Heaven? When Lucifer realized his position in Heaven over the other angels, having beauty, intelligence, and power, he began to desire God’s glory. This pride caused him to strive for ambitions that God would not allow him to achieve, and God was forced to kick Lucifer out of Heaven. In the novel Frankenstein, Mary Shelley creates a parallel between Satan and Victor Frankenstein, who is so proud of his intelligence that he believes he is capable of creating life equal to that of man. Frankenstein shows that he desires God’s glory by trying to perform the powers of God. Frankenstein’s desire to be like God causes him to pursue an ambition to create life, but when he does not meet his own expectations, he abandons the creature, which inevitably forces Victor to sacrifice his humanity.

Frankenstein’s aspirations to control nature along with his selfishness cause him to reject his creation and deny responsibility for the creature. When Victor gives his creature life, he recognizes how disgusting the creature is. He laments that he “worked hard for nearly two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body”, but now that he has succeeded “the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled [his] heart” (Shelley 55). Victor reveals that his “sole purpose” for creating the creature was not out of a desire for relationship or love, but rather to prove that he can perform actions equal to those of God. When the final product does not meet his expectations, he realizes that his ambitions did not match his abilities and that he has evoked a father-like responsibility for his monstrosity, which he ultimately denies. When the monster kills Frankenstein’s brother and frames Justine, Victor attends Justine’s trial and expresses, “My own agitation and anguish was extreme during the whole trial. I believed her innocence; I knew it. Could the demon who had (I did not for a minute doubt) murdered my brother also in his hellish sport have betrayed the innocent to death and ignominy?” (83). Frankenstein experiences “anguish” through the guilt stemming from the knowledge that Justine does not deserve the death penalty. However, Victor chooses to blame the creature for her death, even though he has the choice to tell the truth to the court and save her. Through Victor’s silence in the courtroom, it is evident that his selfishness gets in the way of reason and he is prone to dodge responsibility for the consequences of his own creation. Upon the first encounter between Frankenstein and the creature since the creature’s birth, Victor addresses his creature with “Begone, vile insect!” and then threatens to “trample [the creature] to dust” and hopes “with the extinction of [his] miserable existence, [to] restore those victims whom [he] have so diabolically murdered” (98). Victor has given the creature his “miserable existence”, yet thinks he has the right to take it away. This shows that Victor believes he can play God with his creature without suffering any consequences. Victor defiles the creature as anything close to human when he refers to the creature as an “insect”. This dehumanization is another way that Victor reveals he does not see value in the creature’s life and does not understand that he did not fulfill the responsibilities of a father for the creature because his selfishness makes him blind to the creature’s perspective.

The manipulation of nature and rejection of his creature ultimately causes Frankenstein’s isolation and loss of humanity. The creature explains to Captain Walton his rationale for murdering Victor’s friends and family by asking, “Am I to be thought the only criminal, when all human kind sinned against me? Why do you not hate Felix, who drove his friend from his door with contumely?”. Overall, society views him as “an abortion, to be spurned at, and kicked, and trampled on” (221). The creature feels that all of society is subject to reject him based on what Frankenstein has created him to be: A disgusting manipulation of nature. Since Victor is responsible for making the creature revolting, he is also responsible for society’s rejection of the creature. Since the creature’s rejection inevitably causes him to murder Victor’s friends and family, Victor is ultimately responsible for their deaths. When Frankenstein is being tried for murder, the court reveals the body to Victor to which he exclaims, “Have my murderous machinations deprived you also, my dearest Henry, of life? Two I have already destroyed…I called myself the murderer of William, of Justine, and of Clerval” (177). Once presented with the body of his best friend Henry, Victor begins to accept that he is killing his friends and family through the creature and even takes responsibility for these “murderous machinations”. Victor recognizes that he is becoming isolated by the creature and begins to sift through the emotions that come with this acceptance. Once he comes to terms that he’s the true murderer, Victor realizes that he has nothing left to live for than the creature’s destruction and explains, “My revenge is of no moment to you; yet. While I allow it to be a vice, I confess that it is the devouring and only passion of my soul…and I devote myself, either in my life or death, to [the creature’s] destruction.” (201). Victor’s devotion to murder his creature gives him something to look forward to, which gives his soul “passion” and meaning. Though this devotion seemingly comes from revenge, it is truly because the creature has left him no one else to turn to and Victor is finally forced to face his creature. Through taking responsibility for the creature, Victor casts himself out of society, deterring any possibility of future relationships and ultimately sacrificing his humanity.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein illustrates the importance of balancing one’s ambitions through reason. When Victor Frankenstein’s pride causes him to deviate from reason, he becomes overly absorbed by his ambitions and believes he can achieve goals beyond his abilities. His obsession with proving himself blinds him to the consequences of striving for feats that are equal to those of God. Through Frankenstein’s isolation and sacrifice of humanity, Shelley exhibits the consequences of being overly ambitious and dodging responsibility for one’s actions. Shelley acknowledges that people should not become enthralled by their ambition and they must reflect upon what achieving their goals may cause in the long haul.

Ambition is the fire in one’s mind that drives people to find the path to success. This trait will influence one’s every move for better or worse depending on the goal trying to be met and what must be done to achieve the goal. When one finds the desire for a place, the ideals from right and wrong become overshadowed and triggers a downward spiral to a loss of everything once loved. Throughout the play, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth’s journey to acquire power perfectly exemplifies this situation in which one’s true character comes out when ambition plays a role in one’s thinking. In Macbeth, Shakespeare uses diction, paradoxes, and foreshadowing as a way to convey that ambition is the drive of human nature by reversing the roles and thoughts of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth.

Shakespeare uses diction to prove ambition can lead one to great success but while doing so opens the gates to who one truly is. The author suggests that when one blocks the “passage to remorse” (Shakespeare 1.5-47) it gives rise to the “smoke of hell” (Shakespeare 1.5-54) inside oneself. If a reader is receptive to this message one can understand any person can change from a newfound idea and turn against anything in the way of it. This has shown anybody can lose one’s conscience from being blinded by the goals set in front of oneself, which most often are just as rewarding as being harmful. Shakespeare’s use of diction portrays the effects of desire that will take precedence over any moral value.

In Macbeth, the author uses foreshadowing to show readers what one wants is not always as good as it seems. It is continually depicted that “the affliction of these dreams” in many people’s heads (Shakespeare 3.2-20) are often “torture of the mind” (Shakespeare 3.2-23) and not as fulfilling as it seems when one actually holds control of it. Shakespeare presents readers with the opportunity to learn that one must not leave greed unchecked and let it grow until it is all one wants. In Macbeth, it is shown anyone can achieve power and dominance but who is able to hold it is the true test of how ambitious one is. The purpose for using foreshadowing in Macbeth was to show one’s inner self determines whether one keeps their true self hidden under the surface or let it all come out, and throughout the story, the main characters showed this when greed became a role in matters of action.

In the play Macbeth, ambition gets the best of the main character and this is shown through the use of paradoxes. While one goes through life the idea of ambition and greed will set in many people’s minds resulting in many different outcomes of “battle’s lost and won” (Shakespeare 1.1-4) which will cause “suffer, and more sundry ways than ever.” (Shakespeare 4.3-48) When one becomes over-ambitious one will suffer a terrible downfall from pushing away everything that helped one get to the top. Shakespeare wants readers to learn evil is inside of everyone and those who are able to control it are the ones who are successful in the end. Through the use of paradoxes, the author gives the readers a detailed description of what humankind is and how one’s actions are a reaction to how much greed has taken over one’s mind.

Shakespeare’s use of diction, foreshadowing, and paradoxes relay to the audience that ambition is a key attribute in all people that pushes one to rise above and effect change. While having an ambitious mind is good it can lead to trouble with one not knowing the limits of when to stop. Macbeth is a genuine depiction of the struggling man has with ambition.

Works Cited:

1. Shakespeare, William. “The Tragedy of Macbeth.” Advanced Language & Literature: for Honors and Pre-AP English Courses, by Renée Hausmann Shea et al., Bedford, Freeman & Worth, 2016, pp. 255–313.

Ambition is recognizable. It easily stirs jealousy, it appeals, and it inspires people. Just as easy, people can be thrown off the rails in their attempts at success, becoming lost in their ambition. In the Lake of the Woods(1968), by Tim O’ Brien, is a novel with many things left open for interpretation. Ambition is the main commentary given by the novel, seen through John and Kathy Wade who are lovers who go through significant struggles in their relationship, together and separately. They subconsciously allowed their longings to cloud their judgment of what is reality and what is fantasy, exhibiting the repercussions of clashing ambitions.

A slippery slope of unfulfilled ambition can be seen through Kathy. She not only worked in the admissions department at the University of Minnesota but was also a politician’s wife. Her character development was dependant on John. Throughout the novel there are many setbacks in Kathy and John Wade’s relationship. Something that stood out like a thorn throughout the entirety of the book is Kathy’s disliking to the life of a politician’s wife. This is because politics consumed her marriage. Despite the discomfort Kathy felt towards her lifestyle, constantly being broadcasted because of John’s campaign for US senator, Kathy stayed devoted to helping the love of her life to pursue his dreams until the end. After John’s loss, Kathy realizes that it was her moment to seize; the first time we see Kathy’s ambition come out. At the beginning she talks about how she wants to do fantastic yet wildly impossible things like opening up a firm for John in Minneapolis and running away to Verona. She was delighted to finally be able to break out of the shell that was her husband’s political career. Near the end of the book, Kathy’s sister addresses John directly, and tells him how Kathy was happy the election was over even though they lost. Generally speaking, Kathy represented a lot of willpower, subduing her ambition due to her love through prioritizing and dedicating herself to John’s life dreams and put her own dreams for children and privacy “on pause.” Even after John lost the campaign for becoming a US senator and became extremely unpleasant to be around, Kathy stuck by him. She also recognized the fact John was manipulative and clearly mentally disturbed yet, Kathy stuck by him. Her devotion to John is rooted in her ambition for a better life she had envisioned for their future and how she was blinded by her love from the reality of things. They would talk about having a bus full of babies and how happy they would be. She held onto everything they had discussed and never acknowledged the reality of her situation, wrapped up in her ambitions. Her husband was in no condition to help her raise children at that point. John was being selfish and was not considering her feelings. If she hadn’t been ignorant to her deluded ambitions, she would have realized that John and her future had changed drastically earlier.

The repercussions of John’s ambitions are characterized by his fundamental problems. Overall, from the beginning of his relationship with Kathy to people in general, John never found trust or had faith in anyone or anything. It had a lot to do with his emotionally abusive, alcoholic father who killed himself. During the Vietnam war John has vivid flashbacks of his childhood and of his father. “Jiggly John”, Paul Wade’s cruel nickname for his son, resonated in John and ultimately distorted the way he perceives himself. John’s ambitions as a politician are fundamentally rooted with his desire to prove himself, a way of coping and feeling in control. Instead of actually dealing with his feelings of neglect and mistreatment he received from an important role model in his life, he chooses to push down his emotions and pursue his ambitions without concern, toxically damaging his relationships. John’s unresolved issues are also a cause for why he stayed another year in Vietnam. He had violent thoughts ever since his father passed away and stayed in the war another year because it felt right to him. He felt more in his element than ever. When John came back from Vietnam he would have these vivid flashbacks because he had developed severe post traumatic stress disorder. Instead of getting help he carried on with his life ambitions. Marrying the love of his life and running as a US senator were all pieces on his chessboard, moving to further his ambition. John never faced the reality of his issues. When he told Tony Carbo he had no secret bombs that could potentially destroy his campaign, that was him denying his reality again. In doing so, he was harming himself and without realizing it he was harming his wife and the future they both had envisioned. John hid from the world by aimlessly pursuing his artificial ambitions as a vice, worsening his relationships as a whole.

In conclusion, Kathy lied to herself and let the devotion she had for John suppress her ambitions and adopted his pursuits for her own. She also let her excitement for their potential future that she thought would finally bring her happiness shield her from the reality that John was in no position to give her what she wanted. John lied to himself by ignoring his psychological issues and buried his thoughts. He tried to pursue his dreams, thinking it would somehow patch the hole that was his past, not considering the implications of his actions. Even though both Kathy and John are responsible for their ending, they shouldn’t be seen in a negative light. This novel brings attention to how ambitious people can have ideas for what their lives ought to be. The way people cling to their myopic ideas cloud their judgment from what is actually good for them. Kathy and John Wade loved each other, yet, their beautiful yet unrealistic visions for the future truly serve as a cautionary tale on the allures of ambition.

Work Cited

1. O’Brien, Tim. In the Lake of the Woods. Penguin Books, 1994.

Ambition is an important aspect of every human being. Sometimes it makes people succeed, but when ambition becomes unchecked, it leads to tragedy even for a great man. William Shakespeare develops the theme of ambition in his play Macbeth. At the beginning of the play, ambition leads to Macbeth’s rise. However, when his ambition is uncontrolled, it results in the fall of Macbeth and Scotland. Through the rise and fall of great Macbeth and the fall of Scotland, Shakespeare demonstrates that unchecked ambition leads to tragedy for individual and his community.

In the beginning, Shakespeare shows ambition can be good. It leads to rise and honour for Macbeth. He is an ambitious man who knows right from wrong at the beginning of the play. After Lady Macbeth reads the letter from Macbeth, she has a soliloquy to prove this, “Yet do I fear thy nature, /It is too full o’the’milk of human kindness /To catch the nearest way. Thou wouldst be great, /Art not without ambition, but without /The illness should attend it. What thou wouldst highly, /That wouldst thou holily” (Shakespeare I.v.15-20). Lady Macbeth’s comment on Macbeth states that his ambition is checked at this time, but she believes that it is too milky to achieve his desire. However, Lady Macbeth is wrong because Macbeth gets honour from his checked ambition. As the captain reports the situation of the battle to King Duncan, he says, “For brave Macbeth—well he deserves that name” (Shakespeare I.ii.16). This shows that Macbeth has high prestige. At the same time, Macbeth’s checked ambition also leads to his rise. On his way back from the battlefield, Ross delivers news from King Duncan to Macbeth, “And for an earnest of a great honour, /He bade me, from him, call thee Thane of Cawdor” (Shakespeare I.iii.101-102). This states that Macbeth becomes Thane of Cawdor because of his bravery and loyalty, and it is a considerable honour for him because it can boost his power and reputation. In brief, at the beginning of the play, Macbeth’s ambition is checked, and it leads to his honour and rise. However, Macbeth loses control of his ambition gradually.

Subsequently, Shakespeare emphasizes the danger of unchecked ambition through Macbeth’s downfall. In fact, Macbeth knows what will happen if ambition is unchecked. Before Macbeth decides to murder Duncan, he soliloquizes, “Vaulting ambition which o’erleaps itself /And falls on th’other” (Shakespeare I.vii.27-28). He is trying to rationalize the thought of killing Duncan, and the only reason he can find is his ambition. He uses a metaphor to compare achieving ambition as vaulting. After leaping which represents reaching his desire, the fall is following. Although Macbeth realizes the consequence of unchecked ambition, he still loses his control of ambition owing to Lady Macbeth’s persuasion. Soon, Macbeth loses his mind and kindness. After killing King Duncan, Macbeth becomes the new king, and he says to Lady Macbeth, “O, full of scorpions is my mind” (Shakespeare III.ii.36). These “scorpions” in Macbeth’s mind are an example of symbolism. They represent evil, treachery and defensiveness. In this case, the word Macbeth says shows that he feels uneasy about his kingship, and he is considering to keep his crown by an evil way which is killing. It also foreshadows his treachery to Banquo who is his best friend. Finally, Macbeth loses morality and becomes indifferent. After the murder of Duncan and Banquo, Macbeth goes mad when he sees Banquo’s ghost in his banquet. When Lady Macbeth tries to calm him down, he says, “We are yet but young in deed” (Shakespeare III.iv.144). Macbeth thinks his deed which refers to kills has not done enough. His ambition, for now, is to keep the kingship. Therefore, in order to attain this ambition, Macbeth’s thought of killing more people grows, even though those people are innocent. Then, people begin to call him “tyrant” for his corrupt rule and criminal deed. To put “tyrant” and “brave Macbeth” together, the justaposition of Macbeth’s reputation reveals his downfall. Furthermore, Macbeth turns to indifferent in the end from feeling fearful and guilty in the beginning. In fact, when Seyton tells him the news of Lady Macbeth’s death, he replies, “She should have died hereafter” (Shakespeare V.v.16). The meaning of this sentence is that she should have died later when there would have been more time. Shakespeare develops Macbeth’s downfall of morality further through his indifferent reaction in the face of his “dearest partner of greatness” (Shakespeare I.v.10). He does not care about her death, and he thinks it is not the right time for her to die. In summary, through the downfall of the protagonist Macbeth, Shakespeare shows how dangerous unchecked ambition is. Besides, it is dangerous to a community as well.

Shakespeare depicts the collapse of Scotland to show Macbeth’s unchecked ambition leads to tragedy for his community as well. When Macbeth gets the kingship by murdering, the community becomes unsafe and suspicious. For instance, after the death of Banquo, Lennox talks to a lord, and he says, “Man must not walk too late” (Shakespeare III.vi.7). Scottish people know that Duncan is assassinated in Macbeth’s castle at night, and Banquo is killed on the way to Macbeth’s banquet at night. Therefore, Lennox says that if people go out too late, they will be killed. It shows people’s alertness due to the unsafety of Scotland, and Macbeth’s evil deed leads to the situation. The tragedy of Scotland is also showed by Macbeth’s indifference to his country. When he asks the witches for prophecies of his fate, he says, “Howe’er you come to know it, answer me. /Though you untie the winds and let them fight /Against the churches, though the yeasty waves /Confound and swallow navigation up, /Though bladed corn be lodg’d and trees blown down, /Though castles topple on their warders’ heads, /Though palaces and pyramids do slope /Their heads to their foundations, though the treasure /Of nature’s germen tumble altogether /Even till destruction sicken: answer me /To what I ask you” (Shakespeare IV.i.50-60). It expresses Macbeth’s strong desire to know the fate of himself and his kingship. He wants to get answers from the three witches, no matter what hazards happen even though his country and people are destroyed. This speech reveals Macbeth is inhuman, and he does not care about his community. As a result, it foreshadows Scotland’s suffering under his domination. Then Ross’s words correspond to this foreshadowing. He meets Macduff and Malcolm in England, and he describes that Scotland is a country “Where sighs, and groans, and shrieks that rend the air /Are made, not mark’d; where violent sorrow seems /A modern ecstasy” (Shakespeare IV.iii.170-172). Ross’s speech depicts the suffering of Scottish people who under Macbeth’s government vividly. In addition, Ross does not only report Scotland’s current situation to Malcolm through his speech, but he also represents the hatred of most of the thanes and people in Scotland. All in all, Macbeth’s unchecked ambition makes him become a corrupt dominator, and it leads to tragedy for Scotland inevitably.

In conclusion, through the fall of Macbeth and Scotland, Shakespeare demonstrates unchecked ambition will lead to tragedy for individual and his community. As the protagonist of the play, Macbeth is put on a superior position in the beginning. He is an ambitious man who gets excellent reputations and strong power. Driven by Macbeth’s unchecked ambition, the thought of satisfying his lust for power by fair means or foul makes him lose mind and morality. Then everybody hates him, and the thought of rebellion grows because of his corruption. It forces Macbeth to become a tyrant completely because he is fearful to lose his crown. Thus, it is an inevitable tragedy for Macbeth and Scotland when Macbeth’s ambition goes unchecked. Ambition motivates people to achieve their desires, and it is usually an essential trait of a successful man. However, when people lose control of their ambition and use immoral ways to achieve it, tragedy is bound to happen.

Often, a physical object in a piece of literature may seem ordinary, but when examined in depth, the significance of that object may reveal a deeper meaning. When symbolism is used effectively, important themes are communicated to the audience. Especially when symbols are associated with a specific emotion and relate to a theme. In The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald uses symbolism to effectively reinforce the theme that ambition is inherently futile and dangerous, especially for those striving to overcome the limitations of their social class.

The mood surrounding the symbols in the novel is anxious and depressing, showing the emotions characters go through when they fail to achieve their goals. There is a troubling and disturbing feeling associated with the car accident where Daisy runs over Myrtle in a yellow coupe. This emotion is evident when Nick describes Myrtle’s condition after the incident, “Michaelis and this man reached her first, but when they had torn open her shirtwaist, still damp with perspiration, they saw that her left breast was swinging loose like a flap…” (Fitzgerald 137). The gruesome word choice evokes a troubled and disturbed emotion with the readers. When Myrtle fails in reaching her goal of a fulfilling life in the upper class, that troubling feeling is communicated through the symbol of the yellow car. As Daisy drives the yellow car, it represents how the wealthy upper class can do anything without consequences, but this is the opposite for the lower class. This demonstrates the class inequality and the dangerous consequences that come with attempting to achieve a goal outside of one’s social class. Furthermore, the valley of ashes represents the unfulfilled dreams of American society as the mood surrounding this setting is depressing. The atmosphere is described as a place “where ashes take the forms of houses and chimneys and rising smoke and, finally, with a transcendent effort, of men who move dimly and already crumbling through the powdery air” (23). This imagery is intended to create an atmosphere filled with gloom and reveal the feeling of a deferred dream. Myrtle stands out from George with her bright personality, which shows the amount of ambition she has since George is not as ambitious. However, even with this ambition, Myrtle is unable to achieve her goal, showing the often fruitless characteristic of ambition. The atmosphere created by the word choice surrounding the yellow car and the valley of ashes is uneasy and dismal. Not only is the environment depressing, but the ideas that are represented by the symbols are discouraging.

Moreover, Fitzgerald places values on objects to represent ideas of unattainable dreams. The green light Gatsby reaches out to symbolizes the vast distance between him and his goal. Nick makes an observation on the symbol when he says, “It eluded us then, but that’s no matter–tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther… So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past”(180). The green light can be seen as a symbol for the hopeful possibility of achieving one’s dreams. Yet, the green light is elusive as it can not be reached, regardless of how much work is put into chasing it. Gatsby’s green light is Daisy and the general idea of being in the elite upper class. Even though Gatsby puts great effort into chasing the green light, it is useless. The differentiation between the two types of wealth, new money and old money, is too vast to be overcome because of how society has established opinions on each type. In addition, the clock symbolizes how it is impossible to control some things, even future objectives. When Gatsby reunites with Daisy, an unexpected situation arises when ‘…The clock took this moment to tilt dangerously at the pressure of his head, whereupon he turned and caught it with trembling fingers…” (86). Gatsby catches the clock unsteadily, which signifies how Gatsby is trying to manipulate time to his own benefit but has a hard time doing so. It is impossible to go back in time, therefore showing the unattainability of Gatsby’s dream. Even though Gatsby tries carefully to overcome obstacles to reach Daisy, time is an obstacle he can not overcome. Ambition does not change the fact that some things are not in Gatsby’s control. The idea of the unreachable end is seen through the symbols of the green light and the clock. These items show that ambition is actually futile since it will not change the factors that contribute to an unattainable dream.

In The Great Gatsby, symbolism is used to reinforce the theme that ambition is essentially useless and precarious, especially for those trying to overcome the constraints of the hierarchy of society. Fitzgerald does this effectively by creating an anxious mood surrounding certain symbols and placing significance on the idea of an unreachable dream. The recipe for success is not solely ambition as there are other necessary components such as social class. There are factors that are uncontrollable, that can affect the success of a dream. Ambition alone will not be able to surmount these barriers.

Reflecting the Renaissance spirit of inquiry, Doctor Faustus by Christopher Marlowe (1604) is the tale of an ambitious man who’s desire and thirst for knowledge goes beyond limitations. Faustus sells his soul to Lucifer to acquire all the power and knowledge that he desires to realise too late of the hellish price he must pay.

The sixteenth century was a period of questioning and searching for truth. Individuals during this time strove to act in their own best interest and in the name of what was true to them. The 1300’s European civilisation began its transition out of the church-dominated Middle ages into an era that embraced a worldly and humanistic view of the planet. [1]It was a cultural, intellectual, and artistic movement that began in Italy (1618 – 48), spreading across Europe, eventually reaching England around the 1550’s; hitting its peak during the reign of Queen Elizabeth and King James. It was during the Renaissance period great turmoil within Roman Catholic Church (The Protestant Reformation) arose as traditional practices were challenged by individuals. In the Middle Ages the Catholic Church ruled the lives of people throughout central and western Europe. [2]However, in the constantly evolving and progressing world of the Renaissance, the Roman Catholic church struggled to maintain a steady and uniting structure for people’s spiritual and material lives, igniting a great wave of questioning of practices. [3]

With a literary career spanning over less than six years, Christopher Marlowe influenced English theatre and writing forever. His abstract use of blank verse transformed English poetry, bringing about a new level of maturity to Elizabethan theatre of the time. Christopher Marlowe was born and raised in the primary years of the English Renaissance period which was highly influential to his life, his work, and career. This historic wave of new ideas revolving around science, art, religion and philosophy drove him to become a free thinker; within a group of intellectuals, noblemen, courtiers and commoners who formed an underground club within the school of night that embraced these fore coming new ideas, rejecting the older ones; Dr Faustus was written in this time to reflect the darker side of the period’s boundless pursuit of knowledge. [4]

Doctor Faustus, also referred to as The Tragical History of the Life and Death of Doctor Faustus, explores the conflict one experiences between good and evil within the world and the human soul. This play is based on a German story where a man sells his soul to the devil in quest for knowledge and power. Later on, Faustus learns that he committed a grave mistake of selling his soul to the devil for twenty-four years. Reflecting England’s religious climate in the later part of the 16th century, Doctor Faustus takes a witty and comical perspective of Catholicism and its people, whilst subsequently exploring the grave consequences of refusing and denying religious beliefs; comparing the merits of upholding conventional values. Doctor Faustus is often accompanied by two angels, one of good merit and one of evil, both attempting to advise him on his course of action, with the evil being more dominant over his mind. These two angels also act as a metaphorical representation of the internal battle that is raging inside of Faustus. The play demonstrates to an Elizabethan audience the blurred lines between religion and magic; the character Faustus makes a pact with the devil and becomes a magician. Although society in this time was accustomed to believing that good would always triumph, evil gains the upper hand in Marlowe’s play. [5]To an Elizabethan readership and audience, this was a character that was perceived with witch like qualities and it was during this time period, the subject of religion was eventually banned from the Elizabethan stage because of the sensitive subject it provoked amongst viewers within the audience. Due to this, Faustus was the last play from the period to openly deal with religious matters and themes. [6]

Human free will versus fate and destiny can be evidently noted throughout the entirety of the playscript. Marlowe suggests protagonist, Faustus, has little to no choice as to how his destiny may pan out. Marlowe utilises Faustus’ apparent vulnerability to explore the idea of predetermination. The predetermined destiny of the character suggests a form of a higher power has influence of the aftermath of Faustus’ journey. As suggested by Protestant theologian John Calvin, he argued that God being omniscient and all-knowing, recognises from the beginning who will or won’t be saved; therefore, human action and choice are not the keys to restoration. This is suggestive that no matter how much control Faustus may believe he has in his decision to pursue magic or deny redemption, he is simply playing out a script that has been written. The downfall and fate of this character can be viewed in light of restoration, redemption, and everlasting damnation, all of which are Christian ideals. [7]

In late Renaissance and Medieval Italy, theologians continually emphasised the humanity of Christ and the need for the faithful, and spiritual to lead modelled on Christ’s own. This perspective welcomed visual images that stressed his human existence, and particularly favoured themes related to his earthly birth and death. Orazio Gentileschi was an Italian Baroque painter and was one of the most important painters who like many artists working in Rome, Gentileschi began to absorb the lessons of Caravaggio’s powerful realism and came under the influence of Caravaggio; being one of the most successful interpreters to inherit and incorporate his style. [8] This is notable in Gentileschi’s intense observation from life of details such as hands, feet and faces. Gentileschi turned the horrors of his own life into brutal biblical paintings that can also be interpreted as a cry for oppressed men.

Gentileschi’s work lies in a religious renewal. Ignatius of Loyola and others stressed an intimate relationship to God, helping artists find fresh respect for Leonardo’s naturalism the gravity of Michelangelo, and the darkness and artificial lights of some early Mannerism. His work ‘The Mocking of Christ’, remembers the tormenters and even Jesus as individuals, and the rods of torture catch him as in a web. As an older artist, Orazio learns slowly, but he finally gets it. A deathly pallor and an unclear relationship to foreground or background look old-fashioned, but a memory of the Renaissance had revived, and a transition had begun.[9] Gentileschi uses dislocated scale and composition to add dramatic effect. The chronology of Gentileschi’s work remains one of the most widely debated issues of seventeenth-century art historical studies. The theme of ‘The Mocking of Christ’ was treated by Gentileschi’s a number of times. His earliest version is a striking Caravaggesque canvas of intense drama with strong contrasts of light and shade highlights the religious climate of the time in which this artwork was produced, reflecting the ways in which people viewed the church and Christianity. [10] Treading a line between devotion and absurdity, this chilly painting pits refinement of means against brutality of subject. ‘The Mocking of Christ’ is bound to disturb all who come in contact with it and may offend some; within lives its unsettling power.

Doctor Faustus continues to fascinate audiences with the mythic appeal of its story of power and temptation, high-flying ambition, and self-destruction; as question between desire and conscience, rebellion and remorse, Doctor Faustus still remains relevant today whilst ‘The Mocking of Christ’ is a chilling and spine tingling comment on the Christian faith; challenging the values of Christianity.

Intro

Ambition drives individuals towards achieving their dreams and goals. It’s a powerful force, fueling progress and inspiring personal and societal advancements. In the context of the United States, a nation built on the principles of freedom, opportunity, and the pursuit of happiness, ambition takes on a unique significance. This essay delves into the multifaceted nature of ambition, exploring its various dimensions through increasingly detailed perspectives. Each section, ranging from a concise 100 words to an expansive 500 words, offers insights into how ambition shapes lives, careers, and the broader American society, emphasizing its role in fostering innovation and personal fulfillment.

The American narrative is rich with stories of ambition. From the founding fathers who envisioned a new nation to the innovators and entrepreneurs shaping the modern world, ambition has been a driving force behind America’s most significant achievements. It’s a trait admired and encouraged, often seen as the key to unlocking one’s potential and achieving extraordinary success. This essay will examine how ambition operates in various spheres of American life, including its influence on individual character, its role in professional success, and its impact on societal progress. By exploring these different facets, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the importance and influence of ambition within the American cultural and socio-economic landscape.

100 Words Essay on Ambition

What is ambition? In essence, it is the desire to achieve and the drive to excel. In America, ambition is often synonymous with pursuing the ‘American Dream’ – a concept deeply ingrained in the national ethos. It’s about setting goals and striving tirelessly to reach them. Ambition motivates individuals to push beyond their limits, encouraging continuous learning and growth. This relentless pursuit of goals benefits the individual and propels society forward, leading to collective progress and prosperity. Thus, ambition is not just a personal trait; it’s a cornerstone of societal advancement and success.

250 Words Essay on Ambition

Ambition, a key trait in the American ethos, propels individuals towards success and fulfillment. It’s the driving force behind personal growth, career achievements, and societal progress. In the USA, ambition is celebrated and often seen as a pathway to achieving the ‘American Dream’ – a promise of prosperity and success through hard work and determination.

Ambitious individuals set lofty goals and relentlessly pursue them, overcoming obstacles and challenges along the way. This pursuit often requires resilience, adaptability, and a continuous thirst for knowledge. Ambitious people are not deterred by failure; instead, they view setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow.

In a broader sense, ambition fuels innovation and economic growth. It leads to the creation of new businesses, technological advancements, and breakthroughs in various fields. This drive for achievement and excellence has positioned the USA as a leader in many domains, from technology to entertainment.

However, ambition must be balanced with ethical considerations and a sense of social responsibility. The pursuit of personal goals should not overshadow the importance of community and societal well-being. A healthy ambition is one that aligns personal success with the greater good, contributing positively to society while fulfilling individual aspirations.

Moreover, ambition in the American context often extends to community and national service. It inspires individuals to engage in civic duties, participate in community development, and take on leadership roles in various sectors. It’s a reminder that true success is not just about personal achievements, but also about contributing to the welfare and advancement of the broader society.

400 Words Essay on Ambition

Ambition, a defining characteristic of the American spirit, is the powerful drive to achieve goals and realize dreams. It’s a catalyst for personal development and societal progress. In the USA, ambition is admired and often considered essential for success. It’s deeply intertwined with the nation’s identity, reflecting the values of freedom, opportunity, and the pursuit of happiness.

The journey of ambition begins with setting clear, challenging goals. Ambitious individuals are visionaries; they have a clear picture of what they want to achieve and are willing to put in the effort and dedication required to reach their objectives. This journey is often marked by perseverance, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

In the professional realm, ambition leads to career advancement, innovation, and leadership. It drives people to excel in their fields, whether it’s in business, science, arts, or public service. The ambitious mindset fosters a culture of continuous improvement and lifelong learning, essential for personal growth and professional development.

However, ambition extends beyond personal success. Ambition plays a crucial role in driving social change and progress in a society as diverse and dynamic as the United States. Ambitious individuals often become leaders who initiate positive changes in their communities and beyond. They use their drive and determination to address societal issues, inspire others, and make a lasting impact.

Yet, ambition must be pursued with responsibility and ethical awareness. The quest for personal achievement should not come at the expense of others’ well-being or societal harmony. True ambition balances personal goals and the greater good, ensuring that one’s achievements contribute positively to the community and society.

Moreover, the American ethos of ambition is also a driver of cultural and intellectual richness. It encourages diversity in thought, innovation in arts and sciences, and the pursuit of knowledge. Ambitious individuals in the USA often challenge the current conditions, pushing boundaries in creative and scientific endeavors. This has led to a vibrant, dynamic culture where new ideas and perspectives emerge. Through this lens, ambition is not just about achieving personal or financial success; it’s about enriching society and contributing to the cultural and intellectual tapestry of the nation. In essence, ambition in the American context is as much about cultural and intellectual enrichment as it is about personal achievement and societal advancement. When channeled positively and responsibly, ambition can lead to remarkable achievements. It is a way to create a fulfilling life.

500 Words Essay on Ambition

Ambition is a central element of the American identity, embodying the spirit of aspiration and the relentless pursuit of goals. In the United States, ambition is often linked to the ideal of the ‘American Dream’ – the belief that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve success through hard work and determination. This belief underscores the nation’s commitment to opportunity, equality, and the pursuit of individual aspirations.

At its core, ambition is about setting goals and tirelessly working towards them. It involves a blend of passion, determination, and a proactive mindset. Ambitious individuals are not passive dreamers but active creators of their destinies. They set clear objectives, develop strategic plans, and remain focused and resilient in facing challenges. This proactive approach is evident in various sectors in the USA, from technology and business to arts and politics.

Ambition also plays a crucial role in driving innovation and economic growth. It drives entrepreneurial ventures, scientific discoveries, and artistic creations. The United States’ position as a global leader in various fields is largely attributable to the ambition of its people. This drive for excellence has led to groundbreaking innovations and has significantly contributed to the country’s economic prosperity.

Moreover, ambition is not confined to individual success. It’s a key driver of societal advancement. Ambitious leaders and citizens have been instrumental in shaping American history, advocating for social justice, pushing for technological advancements, and striving for environmental sustainability. Their ambition has led to significant societal transformations and an improved quality of life.

However, ambition must be tempered with ethical considerations and a sense of community. Pursuing personal goals should align with fairness, integrity, and social responsibility principles. An unbridled ambition that disregards ethical boundaries can lead to adverse consequences, both for the individual and society. Therefore, a balanced approach to ambition, which considers the well-being of others and the impact on the community, is essential.

In the American context, ambition also serves as a unifying force, bridging diverse cultures and backgrounds. It’s a shared value that resonates across the vast tapestry of American society, from the bustling cities to the rural heartlands. Ambition in the USA is as diverse as its people, manifesting in various forms and expressions. It’s seen in the entrepreneur launching a startup, the artist crafting a masterpiece, the teacher inspiring the next generation, and the activist championing a cause. This diversity of ambition enriches the American experience and strengthens the nation’s fabric, bringing together people from all walks of life to pursue their dreams and aspirations.

Furthermore, the narrative of ambition in America is evolving to encompass a broader, more inclusive definition. It is not just about financial or professional success; it also includes personal fulfillment, social impact, and ecological sustainability. Modern ambition in the United States recognizes the interconnectedness of individual actions and global challenges. It champions causes like climate action, social justice, and community empowerment, reflecting a maturing understanding of success. This evolution marks a significant shift in the American psyche, highlighting a collective responsibility towards the planet and humanity, shaping a future where ambition is aligned with a holistic vision of progress and well-being.

Is there a proper way to outline oneself? How can any individual who is constantly altering be described for any period? These questions have been the first to come into my mind when the task was proposed. I tried defining myself then and I determined that besides the potential to tune out the world, there is no way to have solely one definition. Therefore, I accept as true that there is a way to define `self` however that definition is not intended to close forever. myself is nearly like the definition of `self` is usually a connotation and existence is the context in which it is viewed. In that light, it seems as though a physical self can be described as a human being or a canine or a cat but the mentality of that human, dog, or cat cannot genuinely be categorized into an easy sentence. There is a correlation between the environment and how anyone is defined in that surroundings versus some other one. For instance, if you throw anybody into a struggle region they will be an awful lot one-of-a-kind man or woman than if you take them to a first-rate dinner one night and decide to have a first-class conversation. Another assessment would be making an attempt to provide an explanation for the structure of a circle as an alternative to multivariate callus, all of this to a five-year-old. The word `self` can be defined as really as `you` as long as you refer to `yourself`. To define `self`, now not just the word, means one should interpret one`s moves in unique environments.

Now, some people would possibly claim to constantly have been equal no depend on what, however, this can’t be true. The human physique itself adjusts over time, and with changes come greater definitions. Definitions that can alternate are normally like connotations that can change from high quality to poor and vice versa. This skill is that at any two moments, the definition can be the same however those moments cannot be very some distance from one another. There is no way to make yourself the equal way you had numerous months or years before. The human psyche and personality are two of the foremost factors when defining the self. The way you observe the world around you is critical in how you view yourself i.e. if you see the world as a stunning vicinity of many probabilities you will in all likelihood see yourself in an extra positive mild versus anyone who sees the world as a darkish and evil place they might now not view themselves so highly.

There is additionally a wonderful correlation between a single individual and a group of human beings and how variety or sameness can lead the definitions of a few people to turn out to be a collective of definitions. This collective definition can both strongly or weakly correlate to the human beings that make up its contents. If you have quite a few unique people to collect collectively into one collective group then the definition of that crew will most probably be a susceptible definition for the individuals. If you have many human beings of the same foundation or definition then the collective will strongly represent the individuals. Now, these are two extremes of this scenario. In most cases, you will not have all the same humans or even all specific people but will have a range and this is a beneficial device for undertaking goals. If you have many people, one of them is bound to be a leader-type and therefore the team can be equipped and brainstorm on thoughts from the collective of individuals, with a distinction there is a possibility.

For instance, I am an Eagle Scout, and to get this honor you need to plan, lead, and execute a leadership project. I had to make use of many people with very extraordinary definitions to deliver them collectively to assist finish the project. This required about a yr and a half for the whole method to be completed. And that is no effortless task, to start with, mainly with marching band and life getting in the way at all the worst moments. I used to be a distinctive man or woman earlier than that project, consequently having a one-of-a-kind definition of myself after the project. Before the project, I was a timid follower who normally achieved the dreams set earlier than me to the first rate of my ability. After I carried out the undertaking with numerous different humans I grew to become a leader and team player that continually gave the first class I should supply no count what it is that wants to be done. There is no excuse for failure and no excuse for laziness. These are the values that have impressed me ever considering that I was young however I in no way really embraced them until I had to emerge as an eagle scout. So, I do have a definition of my contemporary self; and that is I am tall, no longer very fit, I have some common experience when I want to have it most, I embrace challenges, I am an Eagle Scout, I like to watch sports, I am studying to be an Aerospace Engineer at Auburn University, and most of all I am not a quitter and I will usually stay and work via the Scout Oath and Law in each and every day I am residing and working.

In conclusion, I firmly trust that a definition of self can’t be everlasting but I do agree that there is a definition for self at each and every moment but that definition cannot be held over to every other factor in time unless the whole thing stays constant. This is how I outline myself, this is how I rationalize myself, and this is how I understand the entirety around me.

“Women’s ambition is not a vertical ambition, it’s this intrinsic, circular ambition to be happy,” Kevin Roberts executive chairman of Saatchi & Saatchi, 2016.

Roberts’s quote suggests and reflects a widely held view that women don’t reach top positions as they lack ambition (“ILM,” n.d.). Women make up roughly half of the workforce in the UK, however, fewer women than men reach senior management and leadership positions. In 2016 men still dominated subject areas seen as traditionally masculine such as engineering, computer science, etc. (Guardian, 2016), preventing women from getting the skills they need for the highest-paid jobs. Women impede their own careers due to the low standards and aims they set themselves (“ILM,” n.d.). The Ambition and Gender ILM report found that 73% of women believe that there are barriers, which prevent them from attaining these top positions and progressing to the top levels of management. Such barriers have been attributed to the ‘glass ceiling,’ the fact that women’s lack of ambition leads to their underrepresentation in executive roles (Zillman, 2016 & Whitehead, 2013).

Nonetheless, research continuously demonstrates that men and women do not differ in their ability and potential to become leaders or in their aspirations to achieve high (Heilman & Haynes, 2005). Women also score higher than men on content relating to ambition such as desire for status (Schuh et al., 2014). Further, Watts et al. (2015) found that female students had greater occupational ambition than male students. Women made up 70% of health and social services managers and directors in 2016, whilst only making up 39% of financial institution managers and directors (CIPD, 2016). Thus, the difference between ambition in men and women is not the result of gender but what has been recognized as an external force, that uniquely challenges women in male-dominated environments, and this is proposed to be group identity (Peters, Ryan & Haslam, (2013). This study aims to investigate these gender differences in group identity processes; more explicitly measuring how different experiences of group interactions within (male-dominated) degree subjects might contribute to gender differences in ambition. Therefore we predict that ambition will be a function of the environment males and females find themselves in, more specifically their degree subject.

Identity is hugely important; it helps individuals prepare and make sense of the world around them (Oyserman, 2015). Identity-based motivation theory, states that in particular situations people’s identities or self-concepts motivate them to take action towards their goals (Oyserman, 2015). Therefore in order to aim high and perform well i.e. be ambitious it is intrinsic that individuals identify with their group. How do people get to feel this sense of identity within their groups? Begeny and Huo, (2017) suggest two factors, intragroup belonging, and intragroup status contribute to group identification.

Belonging is a central human need and is considered vital for optimal psychological functioning (Easterbrook, & Vignoles, 2013). A lack of belonging has negative implications for the self-concept, and reduces interest and consequently reduces ambition Blader & Tyler, 2009). Making an individual feel that they belong has a number of positive impacts on their performance and their motivation to work hard and perform well (Walton, Logel, Peach, Spencer, & Zanna, 2015). Thus, intragroup belonging is associated with high levels of ambition (Fritz & Van Knippenberg, 2017). Therefore we predict that high levels of intragroup belonging will predict a high level of ambition.

Intragroup status increases both, identification with a group but also ambition. The desire for status is a central motive, and a number of factors such as well being, mental and physical health appear to depend on the level of status given by others (Anderson, Hildreth & Howland, 2015). Psychological benefits such as an increase in self-esteem translate into a higher sense of ambition and wanting to establish the success of the group (Huo, Binning, Molina & Funge, 2010). The group engagement model posits that the social identities of individuals and their organizations are strongly related to whether employees will engage in extra-role behavior, an ambitious related type of behavior (Blader & Tyler, 2009). Therefore we predict that high levels of intragroup status will predict a high level of ambition.

Not one person in this world is genuine without ambition or is indifferent to success and recognition. Anyone who gives an impression of not caring about advancement, or the need for others to grant recognition, has developed a self-defense mechanism to protect themselves from potential failure or rejection. Such people are most likely to have been hurt in the past, rejected by others they loved or wished to impress, being denied the recognition they openly sought or secretly craved. This experience would have severely damaged their confidence and belief in themselves, making them thin-skinned and wary. Rejecting the ways of the wider world, or their environment, allows them to feel more in control of their direction and development and less vulnerable to future hurt from others.

To cope with such disappointments in life or work, many people gradually redefine their status, reluctantly accepting themselves as less competent or less worthy. Some even create their own rules by dramatically changing their lifestyle, derogating the one they have, and retreating into a more isolated existence somewhere else, often with other like-minded individuals which put them firmly in leadership roles. Outwardly, they appear to be satisfied with their achievement or lack of it. However, their sense of injustice is never entirely vanquished, merely repressed to protect their self-esteem. Gradually, many tend to become increasingly bitter and critical of what they have rejected while perceiving themselves to be somewhat superior and above their peers.

Even within religion, those enthusiastic exponents of godliness, glory, and goodness, have not been short of their share of ambition and fierce competition. They might be doing God’s work without much financial reward but a bishop’s miter, or a cardinal’s hat, would do nicely, thank you. Even for the most devoted among us, the ambition is to reach the reward of glory in the afterlife, so something is still being sought, whether on earth or in heaven, for fulfilling expectations and being model Christians, Jews, Muslims, or anything else.

Ambition and Hope

In its basic form, ambition represents hope. Without a fully developed sense of ambition, we tend to lower our expectations and deprive ourselves of the hope required, to expand our horizons, keep us going, and keep our cherished desires alive. It also engenders competition because our ambition matches us against others and pushes us to our maximum. It may be true that too much ambition can make us cynical bounty hunters without any real commitment, but too little hope removes us from the competitive arena of life, retarding our development. We are then reduced to watching from the sidelines instead of being part of the action or influencing it. Gradually, we settle for second best while we quietly wish our life away with regrets.

If your ambition is low, start raising your sights today by addressing your fears, first of all. You are not really in competition with anyone else. The main aim is the ultimate you can achieve and how much of your potential you can realize, regardless of what is happening to your peers or colleagues. We are all awesome beings with hidden capabilities, but we will never find out just how much until we allow ambition to propel us forward.

Who knows? Raising your sights just that little bit could help you conquer your special mountain. If it is very high, just allow it to take you as far as you feel comfortable. It might be a wee bit scary, but it will be a great adventure, with lots of fun and learning along the way. Just think how marvelous you will feel when you achieve your secret ambition and conquer your particular fears in the process. I can assure you, there will be nothing like it