'Dubliners' was published in 1914 and creates a microcosm of the state of decay and paralysis that Dublin found itself in, through the 'well polished mirror' of James Joyce. It clearly presents how stagnant life paralyzed the hopes and dreams of Dubliners. Through realistic characters, such as Eveline, Joyce exemplifies how the city itself was the "center of paralysis" and therefore the cause of the loss of hopes and dreams that affects so many characters in the collection. Joyce creates Eveline as a boring and monotonous character. . The story begins as she sits idle at the window, contemplating a better life. The window symbolizes how Eveline and many other characters reflect on their lives without the strength of determination to make change. Shows a general lack of ambition, as he watches others pass by, going somewhere with a purpose; Joyce creates a comparison with the inclusion of "a man from Belfast", as Belfast was in a state of great change and industrialism, when in comparison Dublin was dark and repressive, thus affecting the characters' ambitions and overall purpose. Lady Macbeth is presented as a determined and ambitious character, with the willpower to do anything to achieve her goals: "And it will be what you are promised", this exclamation clearly shows her boldness. This strong and active nature is the antithesis of a normal Jacobean woman and highlights Eveline's passivity in deciding her future. Furthermore, Eveline's overall inactivity is emphasized when she reviews her life in Ireland. Instead of embarking on a journey to an exciting new life, Eveline is trapped dwelling on her past; "Dad wasn't that bad," he decides. This statement, devoid of any means of paper, comes to no meaningful conclusion, with most people repeating the same mundane days over and over again. Dublin was stunted, unable to move forward under Home Rule and without an established and satisfied union with Great Britain. In contrast, Shakespeare adheres to traditional concepts of writing, as 'Macbeth' includes all the typical points of any narrative. In conclusion, both Joyce and Shakespeare successfully present their characters for their intended purposes. Eveline is trapped in a repressive Dublin; unable to move forward or change his life independently. Lady Macbeth on the other hand was strong and independent, the exact opposite of Eveline. However, the fact that both of these women focus heavily on the past ultimately leads to their inability to move forward; Lady Macbeth commits suicide and Eveline is left in Dublin, stuck in a repetitive cycle.