In the world of literature, the debate between fate and free will is a long-standing one. This essay will explore the theme of fate versus free will in Shakespeare's play Macbeth, examining how the characters' actions are influenced by external forces beyond their control and how they ultimately determine their own destiny through their choices. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get Original Essay Shakespeare's Macbeth is a tragic story of ambition, power, and destiny. The play follows the rise and fall of the main character, Macbeth, a brave and noble warrior who is tempted by three witches' prophecy that he will become king. Throughout the play, Macbeth struggles with his desire for power and the consequences of his actions, ultimately leading to his downfall. The debate between fate and free will in Macbeth is central to the play's themes and characters. On the one hand, the witches' prophecies seem to suggest that Macbeth's fate is predetermined, as they predict his rise to power and eventual downfall. However, Macbeth's actions and choices also play an important role in shaping his destiny. For example, his decision to assassinate King Duncan in order to seize the throne sets off a chain of events that ultimately lead to his demise. The character of Macbeth himself embodies the tension between fate and free will. While he is influenced by the prophecies of witches and the machinations of his ambitious wife, Lady Macbeth, he also makes conscious decisions that contribute to his downfall. His internal struggle between his desire for power and his guilt over his actions highlights the complex interplay between fate and free will in the play. An example of fate versus free will in Macbeth is the character Banquo. Like Macbeth, Banquo receives a prophecy from the witches that his descendants will inherit the throne. However, unlike Macbeth, Banquo chooses not to follow through on this prophecy and remains loyal to King Duncan. His decision to resist the temptation of power ultimately leads to his own death, but his integrity and free will set him apart from Macbeth's tragic fall. Additionally, the character of Lady Macbeth also struggles with the theme of fate versus free will. She is driven by her ambition and desire for power, which ultimately leads her to manipulate and push Macbeth towards his own downfall. Although she believes in the inevitability of fate, her choices and actions demonstrate the power of free will to shape one's destiny. In his essay “Macbeth and the Metaphysics of Evil,” scholar RA Foakes argues that Macbeth's tragic fate is the result of his own moral weakness and lack of action. Foakes suggests that Macbeth's choices to murder Duncan and others are not predetermined by fate, but rather arise from his own unchecked ambition and desire for power. This interpretation highlights the importance of individual action in shaping one's destiny. Ultimately, Macbeth's tragic fate is the result of both external forces beyond his control and his own choices. While the witches' prophecies may have set him on the path to his demise, it is his own actions and decisions that seal his fate. Ultimately, Macbeth's downfall serves as a warning about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of giving in to fate. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a trial..