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“From beginning to end, the witches are the most powerful characters in the
play. They are the catalyst for all of Macbeth’s crimes and for his demise.”
Evaluate the accuracy of this statement with reference to their impact on
Macbeth’s actions.
1. Introduction
‘Macbeth’ is a play in which three witches prophesise the power-hungry rise of the main
character Macbeth, who seizes the throne in 11th century Scotland. Through his
ascension, Macbeth discards his morals and kills many people to consolidate his power. In
the end the respect of his peers is lost and eventually his crown with it.
Thesis statement answering this question. (What does Shakespeare say exactly about
Power or Gender)
Throughout the play the witches remain the most powerful characters as their prophecies
come true. Forcing Macbeth to spiral deeper into tyranny. Providing they are the catalyst
for all of Macbeth’s crimes and for his demise.
List of main points from the play that answer the question.
The witches demonstrate their power by predicting Macbeth’s destiny in the play and
influencing his selfish actions. For example, they predict Macbeth becoming king. Predict
the dangers represented by Banquo and Macduff and finally predict Macbeth’s downfall
2. Body of Essay
3. Conclusion
The power of supernatural beings to affect the human world is a theme that
continues to insert itself into contemporary culture through texts like ‘Harry
Potter’, ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ and ‘True Blood’. ‘Macbeth’ retains its
validity because human beings love to study the power of the unknown over
the mortal world.