What Role Does Supernatural Play In Macbeth

The supernatural plays an important role in the story and motives of Macbeth. Arguably, the most important role. The reader sees supernatural elements take place in the story in the forms of witches, ghosts, visions, calling on spirits, and the irregular activity of natural elements. The author utilizes the supernatural to mischievously motivate Macbeth into dirty deeds, taunt Macbeth, and lead Macbeth to his death.

In the beginning of the play Macbeth meets the three witches who deliver the prophecy. From Act one the prophecy says “All hail, Macbeth, thou shalt be king hereafter!”. The question in Macbeth's mind however is will he eventually slip into power or is it something he must take. As stated in a critical essay by Mrs.Amal Nasser Frag, “The supernatural element contributes to the action as it gives confirmation and distinct form to the inner workings of the hero’s mind”. The debate caused by the mischievous witches is what triggers the power-hungry antagonist in Macbeth. Macbeth’s true colors are revealed to the reader and his former perfect divine like persona is dashed. The sudden switch in mentality also sets a new tone for the play. Without the witches prophecy, Macbeth would have never been so misguidedly driven to take the crown. Later on, the prophecy mentions Banquo and his position in power. It states, “Thou shalt get

The witches are ready to stir things up again after meeting with Hecate. They build Macbeth up with false confidence as told in Act 4. For example, “The power of man, for none of woman born / Shall harm Macbeth”. Macbeth has no reason to question the witch’s prophecy because the first prophecy came true and he is too deranged to think of doing so anyways.Therefore, Macbeth runs eagerly into battle believing he can't be killed. This ultimately leads to his own demise because Macduff’s mother died when he was born and he was