Macbeth

In Macbeth, the witches are not simply prophets from whom Macbeth learns his fate, but represent a much more abstract idea. Initially, in Act I, the witches are three hags who Macbeth and Banquo encounter on the battlefield, with news that they have obtained from rumors. However, Macbeth’s “vaulting ambition” distorts his perception of them in such a way that they no longer resemble the human beings they were in Act I. After their conversation, the fulfillment of his promotion to the Thane of Cawdor sets Macbeth’s mind to imagine even greater things. The thane’s mind begins to summon the dark side of human nature. The gradual emergence of this darkness – vaulting ambition – and Macbeth’s submission to its influence, would bring him to his ultimate downfall.

While Macbeth is motivated by these witches, Banquo displays no such desire. This implies that these witches represent some aspect of darkness dormant within the subconscious of every person. Whether that individual decides to submit to or suppress its appeals will determine his actions. Thus, the witches represent the inevitable flaws that are inherent within human nature. Shakespeare uses the witches’ supernaturalism in the play to stress that Macbeth’s meeting with them is no coincidence. The inevitable nature of supernaturalism implies that Macbeth’s success has triggered the emergence of “vaulting ambition” in him. However, despite his conjuration of these dark agents, Macbeth initially seemed to be able to contain it. Unfortunately, he informed his wife of the prophecies during his initial elation. This would later prove to be fatal, as it is Lady Macbeth who “pricks the sides of his intent,” and he thus succumbs to his “vaulting ambition.”

By Act III, Macbeth has partially descended into the darkness of his ambition. Mad in his desire to retain his illegitimately attained power, he once again consults the witches. He learns from these prophets the nature of his downfall. Fearful of losing his power,