Macbeth Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 4

Macbeth - Essay Example The previous success on the battlefield and the fulfillment of the first prophecy make the once skeptical Macbeth attach seriousness to the witches’ words. Macbeth, through the assistance of Lady Macbeth, struggles to make the prophecy true in all ways possible. Throughout the play, Macbeth’s actions are motivated by the existence of supernatural elements, from the witches to Banquo’s ghost to the nightmares and the Apparitions among others. A critical analysis of supernaturalism in the tragedy in connection to Macbeth’s life reveals the influence of the elements of his actions. The trio of witches that Macbeth encounters at the onset of the play influences almost all his actions henceforth. After the defeat of two different armies (from Ireland and Norway) invading Scotland, Macbeth and Banquo meet the witches who give them the prophecy that shapes their life entirely. The witches’ prophecy seems of great influence on Macbeth as it triggers the quest for the attainment of power. To Macbeth, the First Witch, the Second Witch, and the Third Witch say, â€Å"All hail, Macbeth! Hail to thee, Thane of Glamis! All hail, Macbeth, hail to thee, Thane of Cawdor!† and â€Å"All hail, Macbeth, thou shalt be king hereafter!† respectively (Shakespeare 8). Even though Macbeth holds their words with skepticism at first, they influence his life and actions to entirety. The fulfillment of the first prophecy made by the Second Witch, terming Macbeth as the Thane of Cawdor motivates most of his actions thereafter. This is a clear indication that supernaturalism plays an extensive role in the development of the character of Macbeth. Concerning his leadership as the Thane of Cawdor, the Second Witch says, â€Å"All hail, Macbeth, hail to thee, Thane of Cawdor!† (Shakespeare 8).Macbeth disdains the witches at first. The prophecy comes to pass after King Duncan expresses gratitude towards Macbeth and Banquo for the success on the battlefield. Macbeth is named