The Supernatural in Shakespeares Plays - Essay Example

To have free will means having what it normally takes to act freely. Consequently, in a situation when one acts freely; exercises free will, it is up to that individual to do one thing or another on that specific occasion. Although there are more alternatives that are open to him/her, he/she determines which one to follow. From the play, it can be seen that Macbeth’s actions are out of free will in most instances.

For instance, three witches give prophesy that Macbeth will be a king. Besides, they exactly know the circumstances that will bring about Macbeth’s downfall. Immediately after hearing these predictions, Macbeth starts planning to fulfil the tempting predictions (Ezeh 75). Macbeth notes with astonishment, the reaction that seizes his mind and body: “If good, why do I yield to that suggestion whose horrid image doth unfix my hair, and make my seated heart knock at my ribs against use of nature?

” (1994, pp. 34-37). As soon as Macbeth learns that Malcolm has been named heir, he is not content to wait for his chance. He resolves to take action. Indeed, this is willful. He had stated; “… stars, hide your fires, let not light see my black deep desires”. He wants to conceal his desires; he deliberately plans to kill the king although he knows that his desires are wrong and ambitious. He even admits that he is ambitious: “I have no spur To prick the sides of my intent, but only vaulting ambition that overlaps itself and falls on the other”.

(1994, pp. 25-28). However, on the other hand, the fulfilment of these predictions indicates that Macbeth is led by fate that is destined to do as the witches foretell. Additionally, King Duncan’s trip intervenes; one night in Macbeth’s home for the celebration of victory presents an enabling environment for Macbeth to perform their dastardly act. Also, Lady Macbeth pressurized Macbeth; she asked repeated questions about his manhood that fueled his ambitions and urged him on until he committed the murder and occupied the throne.

When one looks at the above scenarios, one may argue that all of them present a naturalistic perspective, and the actual events seem to be fuelled by some forces beyond Macbeth’s control. But in reality, the truth is that he purposely disregards his own moral judgment to rise to power. He is blinded by his ambition and yearnings to take a shortcut to the future. So contrary to the theory of fate or naturalism, he is responsible for his own actions (Ezeh 76). Macbeth decides on his own to murder Duncan, in order to obtain the crown.

These actions suggest that fate may be predetermined, but free will determines how a person may reach his destiny. People are free, and despite the pressures from their environments or surroundings, it is clear that the responsibility, choice, and consequences are ultimately personal. Therefore, since Macbeth is not forced to do anything by anybody, his destiny is determined by his free will.