Influence Of External Forces On Macbeth

(note to self : perchance)

For centuries on end, humanity has been gripped by the concept of controlling one’s own destiny in our never-ending quest for knowledge. This is demonstrated best in William Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Taking place in the 11th century, Macbeth depicts the ascent and downfall of the titular main character. Shakespeare includes elements of Macbeth’s psyche as well as influences from external forces all contributing to Macbeth's climactic defeat. Although Macbeth was certainly influenced by various external factors, it was still ultimately Macbeth who chose to commit the heinous crime on his own volition. This can be proven by examining Macbeth’s actions towards the murder of Duncan, his endless thirst for power, and in the

Notably, the Witches choose to address Macbeth by his actual title, the Thane of Glamis then the Thane of Cawdor and finally the King of Scotland, chanting, “All hail, Macbeth, that shalt be king hereafter! ” (1.3, 51) Macbeth, showing his power-hungry nature, pleads with the witches to divulge more information but they vanish. Macbeth then has an extremely insightful aside where he tries to make sense of what the Witches told him. He states, “My thought, whose murder yet is but fantastical, Shakes so my single state of man.” (1.3, 143-144) It is clear that Macbeth had already thought about murdering king Duncan, even before Lady Macbeth’s influence. It should be noted that neither the Witches nor Lady Macbeth could ever force Macbeth to commit murder. The most they could do is attempt to coerce Macbeth into the act using their words alone. The Witches use the prophecy as a way of enticing Macbeth, playing to his ambition and in turn bringing his darkest thoughts to light. However, Macbeth’s further inquiries regarding his future are done completely on his own accord. This initial prophecy sets up what is perhaps the most damning piece of evidence seen in Act 1 Scene 7. This act has