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Supernatural And Evil In Macbeth

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Death has an unimaginable effect on all of us, whether we are the main actor or a bystander. Macbeth, like many other stories of its time period, includes “death” as one of the primary themes used to drive the plot forward. Specifically, Macbeth’s decision to murder King Duncan is essentially the catalyst used by Shakespeare that sets the rest of the story in motion. Both supernatural and evil forces push and pull all around him, and despite the death and destruction they leave in their wake, Macbeth’s own mind seems to be the primary victim. As the first two acts progress, it is clear from his words and actions that cracks have begun to appear in his psyche. By examining Macbeth’s dilemma with the Weird Sisters’ prophecies, his own moral struggle, and the delusional words these things create, it is easy to draw the conclusion that the new king is slowly being driven into insanity. Macbeth itself is inherently quite sinister, especially throughout the exposition. The prediction made by the Weird Sisters, in which they tell Macbeth of his future kingship sets up the rest of the play, while having significant effects on the characters themselves. While seeming fictitious at first, their mysterious words are seemingly confirmed when Macbeth is made Thane of Cawdor. His surprise is apparent as he subsequently quotes, “Glamis and Thane of Cawdor! The greatest is behind,” (1.3.125-6), meaning that a portion of the prophecy has been fulfilled. Thus, becoming King

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