Quote by William Shakespeare
I have no spurTo prick the sides of my intent, but onlyVaulting ambition, which o'erleaps itselfAnd falls on the other.
Summary
This quote, from Shakespeare's "Macbeth," illustrates the protagonist's inner conflict. Macbeth acknowledges that he lacks a justifiable reason or motivating force to spur his actions, except for his unchecked ambition. Rather than being driven by a noble purpose, his ambition becomes reckless and consumed by unhealthy ambition that surpasses its own limits. Through this quote, Shakespeare highlights how blind ambition can ultimately lead to downfall and destruction.