The Witches in Macbeth Essay

In William Shakespeares Macbeth, the motif of the witches three prophecies plays a significant role in determining the theme, fate vs. free will. This theme is based upon Macbeths actions, that he willing takes in order to assure the future that the witches have bestowed upon him. The activities that Macbeth undertakes ends up leading him to his death and a possible change in fate.

First off, Macbeths fate begins to occur when he is approached by the three witches in Act 1, Scene 3. In this scene, he is given his three prophecies that supposedly, determined his fate for the future. The three claim to Macbeth, All hail, Macbeth! Hail to thee, Thane of Glamis. All hail, Macbeth! Hail to thee, Thane of Cawdor. All hail, Macbeth, that shalt be king hereafter (1.3.51-53) indicating that Macbeth has a royal and powerful future a head of him. When Macbeth is told, he is slightly confused because he is already aware that he is Thane of Glamis, and he knows that the Thane of Cawdor and the King are healthy and secure in there positions at the moment. Shortly after, Macbeth is left with even more confusion when Ross and Angus approach him declaring him Thane of Cawdor. Ross and Angus also pass on King Duncans regards to Macbeth saying how much he has appreciated Macbeths commitment and success in the war and for that reason he is granting him Thane of Cawdor as a thank you gift in return. Macbeth is confused and astonished which leads him to ponder that the witches might be right in determining his powerful future. Here we can see that the fate of Macbeth, announced by the witches, is starting to take place. We can also see that the witches, so far, have been accurate enough to possibly let us assume that there third prophecy is likely to happen.

Now, fate is shown to be messed with when Macbeths insecurities lead him to get power hungry for his title of King. Even though Macbeth first announced to Banquo, Come what may...