Final answer:
William Shakespeare's Macbeth exemplifies the theme that the ends justify the means, presenting a narrative where deception and violent force are employed to achieve ambitious goals. The theme recurs in historical and philosophical discussions around the notion of 'might makes right,' where power is legitimized by the ability to wield it.
Step-by-step explanation:
The text that exemplifies the theme that the ends justify the means, including the use of deception and violent force, suggests a complex moral position that is often dramatized in literature.
One common literary exploration of this theme is William Shakespeare's Macbeth, where the titular character is led astray by the 'instruments of darkness' and utilizes murder to achieve his ambitions, ultimately justifying his violent actions by the outcomes he desires.
Additionally, historical texts and narratives often grapple with the idea that power and might make right.
This concept echoes throughout history, suggesting that the legitimacy of authority or governance comes from the ability to enforce rule, regardless of the morality of the means used.
The theme is reflected in stories, historical accounts, and even philosophical treatises, where a government or individual exercises power simply because it has the might to do so.
Therefore, literature and history provide numerous examples where characters or historical figures are portrayed as subscribing to the belief that achieving a desired end can necessitate the use of morally questionable or outright violent means.