In Macbeth, a tragedy by William Shakespeare, Lady Macbeth urges her husband to summon his bravery and commit regicide. Her iconic phrase, "Screw your courage to the sticking-place," serves as a metaphor for firming one's resolve. It reflects her relentless ambition and determination to see Macbeth achieve power by any means necessary, even if it requires him to overcome his moral hesitations.
This quote encapsulates the theme of ambition versus ethics in the play. It illustrates how external pressure, particularly from a spouse, can influence one's decisions and push them toward darker pathways. Ultimately, it highlights the transformative and often destructive power of ambition, as Macbeth's choice leads to a tragic downfall.