Examples Of Free Will In Macbeth

Shakespeare’s Macbeth, expresses the universal truth that one’s life is not determined by fate, but rather the choices that one makes; furthermore, how choosing poorly can lead to overwhelming feelings of guilt.

The most prominent and underlying theme of Macbeth, is the concept of fate vs. free will, most clearly seen through the rising in power and eventual downfall of Macbeth himself. Early in the play, the Three Witches prophesied that Macbeth will become king of Scotland; however, the prophecy ends there. Macbeth exercises his free will and makes the decision to kill King Duncan and ensure his appointment to king. He may have been fated to become king, but his free will led him to become both a traitor and a murderer. The problem is that

This is proven when Banquo and Macbeth are discussing the prophecy and Banquo tells him, “may they not be my oracles” (3.1.9). Here Banquo expresses to Macbeth his desire to not let what the Three Witches have fated for him, determine the course of his life. In having Banquo attempt this, Shakespeare implies that Macbeth could do the same if the effort was provided. Additionally, a look at Macbeth’s character prior to the prophecy further exhibits Macbeth’s free will in the actions leading ultimately to his death. In 1.2, King Duncan discusses Macbeth’s brave, heroic and selfless actions in the war; had Macbeth never heard the prophecy, he would have very easily continued living his life in this way. If Macbeth was fated to be a traitor and a brutish murderer, there would be no purpose in him being a hero up to that point in his life; a noble and honorable kingsman does not suddenly being bloodthirsty and heartless. In fact, if Macbeth was fated to become king, there’s no reason that this could not have been fulfilled without him murdering King Duncan. Yet, Macbeth is impatient and overly ambitious in his thoughts on becoming king and allows himself to