In today's world, people are often judged not only by their actions, but also by the motivations behind them these acts. A “good” action can be done, but it is only truly good if the intentions are well-meaning. Humanism is an example of those actions where intentions are vital to the effects of those actions. In Macbeth, humanism is a clear theme that Shakespeare uses throughout his characters. He provides many examples of humanism and its effects to clearly illustrate his humanistic goal in writing the play. Shakespeare highlights the importance of good intentions in humanism by describing the effects of immoral use through Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, the regrets expressed by Macbeth after such immoral use, and the results of benevolent use through Macduff and Malcolm. Shakespeare shows the harmful effects of misuse. humanistic intentions through Macbeth and his wife's many attempts to actively change fate and create opportunities for themselves, rather than simply waiting for their destiny to be realized in its due time. Shakespeare shows Macbeth's obsession with changing his destiny when Macbeth says to himself that "[his] thought...trembles [his] unique state of man so much that his function is stifled by conjectures, and that nothing is but that which is not” (Shakespeare I, iii 152). -155). Macbeth is clearly deep in thought about the potential outcomes of changing his destiny, even though acts of humanism in mind are sinful in every way. Shakespeare writes this quote so that we can infer that nothing good can come from an immoral change in a person's destiny. Later in Act 1, Lady Macbeth clearly praises corrupt humanism when she says of Macbeth: "You would be great, you are not without ambition, but without the disease that should accompany” (Shakespeare I, v 18-20)... . middle of paper ......and killed, he uses humanism in a way it should be used: to save his own life and that of his brother. Shakespeare uses both Macduff and Malcolm's uses of humanism to demonstrate how humanism should be applied to life. Throughout Macbeth, Shakespeare explains his view of humanism and how it should be used through the characterization of the good and evil characters in the play. He also highlights the importance of good intentions when using humanism. Although he does not protest it openly, Shakespeare has some warnings regarding humanism. It reminds us that even though sometimes it seems like life could be improved by being more active and humanistic, sometimes it's best to let things take their course. Ultimately, Shakespeare warns against misuse of humanism and advocates appropriate and moderate use of humanism..