The supernatural plays a crucial role in William Shakespeare's play Macbeth. From the very beginning of the play, the witches introduce an element of the supernatural, and this theme is prevalent throughout the play as the witches and their prophecies influence the actions and decisions of the characters.
The witches, also known as the "weird sisters," are presented as supernatural beings who have the ability to predict the future and influence the events of the play. They introduce the idea of the prophecies that will shape the actions of Macbeth and Banquo, saying to Macbeth, "All hail, Macbeth, hail to thee, Thane of Cawdor! All hail, Macbeth, hail to thee, Thane of Glamis!" (Act 1, Scene 3). This prophecy comes true when Macbeth is later made Thane of Cawdor, and it sets him on the path towards becoming the King of Scotland.
The witches also give Banquo a prophecy that his descendants will be kings, which fuels his ambition and causes him to become suspicious of Macbeth. These prophecies set the stage for the conflict and power struggles that occur throughout the play.
In addition to the witches, the supernatural is also represented in the hallucinations and visions that Macbeth experiences. After killing Duncan, Macbeth is plagued by guilt and fear and begins to see visions of a floating dagger and the ghost of Banquo. These visions are symbols of Macbeth's guilt and serve as a reminder of the crimes he has committed.
The supernatural also plays a role in the prophecies of the witches and the visions experienced by Macbeth and Banquo are both fulfilled in the end. Macbeth becomes the king, but his rule is short-lived as he is ultimately overthrown and killed. Banquo's descendants do indeed become kings, as prophesied by the witches.
In conclusion, the supernatural is a significant theme in Macbeth, and it plays a crucial role in shaping the actions and decisions of the characters. The witches, their prophecies, and the visions experienced by Macbeth and Banquo all contribute to the overall theme of the supernatural in the play.