Appearance Vs. Reality
In Macbeth, there is a fine line between what appears to be happening and whats really happening, as well as how people appear to behave and what their really up to. Already in act 1 we got a glimse of this. "The Prince of Cumberland- that is a step on which I must down or else o'erleap,for in my way it lies. Stars, hide your fires, let not light see my black and deep desires; The eye wink at the hand; yet let that be which the eye fears, when it is done, to see" (1.4. 44-59). This quote is from Macbeth talking to himself about killing the kings son, right after being praised by the king for his loyalty. In apperance Macbeth is a trustworthy thane, but in reality he is plotting out the murders of the royal family. Machiavelli would most likely approve of Macbeths stratagy of gaining power because, like he once said, "It is not essential, then, that a Prince should have all the good qualities, but it is most essential that he should seem to have them". So pretty much it's not important for Macbeth to be loyal and and trustworthy, as long as he seems to be he can get what he wants.
Gender Roles
Loyalty and Honor
Loyalty and Honor are sort of an issue in Macbeth. It is hard for followers to be honorable and loyal to a ruler, if they only have their own perdonal gain in mind.
