Witches Apparition In Macbeth

The witches within the entire play and especially in act IV hold a significant amount of power over Macbeth. During this act, the witches conjure up many apparitions with different characteristics. Each apparition gives a prophecy that satisfies what Macbeth wishes to hear and gives awareness to threats he might come across. The first apparition which is a head with an armored helmet counsels Macbeth to “Beware Macduff. Beware the thane of Fife (IV. i. 71-72). This warning which is presented and planned by the mischievous witches ultimately influences Macbeth’s decision to brutally murder Macduff’s family and go after Macduff in order to solidify his own power. Macbeth at this point of the play has full belief in the witches and their statements

This can be seen when during a conversation between Malcolm and Macduff in Act IV, scene iii when Macduff states, “Not in the legions of horrid hell can come a devil more damned in evils to top Macbeth” (57-59). This comparison of Macbeth as the devil is not to be taken lightly and uncovers the hatred Macduff and many others feel. Especially during this religious time period in Europe, the devil was a much hated figure. This reputation greatly differs from what it once was when Macbeth was viewed as the noble king who avenged Duncan’s death out of love. Now, even women who were deemed weak and fragile at that time would “ fight, to doff their dire distresses” caused by Macbeth as stated by Ross who is serving as a messenger (IV. iii. 189-190). Macbeth’s new reputation as king has resulted in many uprisings to overthrow this once seemingly admired and noble man. This change in reputation sprung from the poor conditions seen in Scotland, Macbeth’s lack of mental stability, and his sadistic form of ruling in which disobedience is equivalent to death. The people no longer view Macbeth as a possible savior and most are willing to oppose him while those who are fighting for him are forced to. This progression of Macbeth’s behaviors towards the worse has increased dramatically from the beginning of this play up until act IV and so has his reputation as a person