Macbeth - Supernatural Theme

A detailed Summary of Macbeth - Supernatural Theme


The presence of supernatural forces in William Shakespeare's, "Macbeth," provides for much of the play's dramatic tension and the mounting suspense. Several supernatural apparitions throughout the play profoundly affect Macbeth and the evil forces eventually claim Macbeth and destroy his morals. Macbeth's ambition was driven by the prophecies of the three witches and unlike Banquo, he was willing to do anything to assure that they actually transpire. Macbeth is horrified at the notion of killing Duncan, his King and kinsman, but he eventually succumbs to the evil forces and this leads to his downfall. Macbeth further compromises his honor by arranging the murder of his best friend, Banquo. Banquo's places Macbeth in a precarious situation; he is deeply entrenched in suspicion and there is no way out. Macbeth's vision of Banquo's ghost at a royal banquet only drives him closer to insanity.

Macbeth has changed dramatically as a character throughout the play. Macbeth was tortured with remorse after Duncan's murder but upon hearing of Banquo's successful assassination he is elated. His vaulting ambition was driving him to extreme measures and he could do nothing to abate it. Macbeth had risked his life to attain the th


Banquo's appearance provides insight into the character of Macbeth. It shows the level that Macbeth's mind has recessed to. His morality is declining and although he is battling his conscience, the evil forces have overcome his every thought and action. Banquo's ghost only appears to Macbeth and it represents his extreme guilt. Although he may have lost his honor he still is having trouble enjoying the crown when he attained it by such vile circumstances. "I have a strange infirmity, which is nothing/ To those that know me" (III, iv, ll 86-87). Macbeth may be subconsciously referring to his conscience that has plagued him since the first appearance of the three weird sisters.

Banquo's ghost appears during the banquet because it provides for an extremely suspenseful scene. Macbeth is pitted in an internal conflict and is so tormented by guilt that he could confess to his actions at any time. The tension only rises as Macbeth suffers a breakdown and crumbles in front of many distinguished guests, only heightening any prior suspicions they may have had. If Banquo didn't appear during the scene, Macbeth would only remain content that his friend had been murdered knowing that the

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Approximate Word count = 805
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: Novels

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