The Witches in Macbeth

The Witches and the Supernatural

The Witches in Macbeth relate to the themes of fate/destiny, the supernatural; and to ambition as they are the beings that inform him that he will be king. In Macbeth we see them setting spells, seeking to disrupt the natural world and creating mischief. Chaotic weather seems to relate to them too - thunder, lightening and rain are cited multiple times when we see them in the play, and when violent events occur.

Macbeth seeks out the Witches, who are casting a spell. They seem to know he is on his way. He asks for his future, and again the tell him; but without giving him the whole story.

Second Meeting

The Witches appear before Macbeth and Banquo after a violent battle. They tell them, without given them the WHOLE story, their futures.

First meeting

1. View the clip from ClickView

2. Take note of what the Witches say and how they say it (techniques)

3. Critical Questions

   Are the witches deliberately deceptive? Why?

   How do the witches characterise Banquo and Macbeth?

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Act 4 - Macbeth's second meeting with the Witches

​*NOTE: The video is not the exact script from the play. It is condensed and simplified.

1. View the clip from ClickView

2. Take note of what the Witches say and how they say it (techniques)

3. Critical Questions

   What theme does the clip most relate too? How are the Witches characterised (their traits)?

Act 4 - Macbeth's second meeting with the Witches

​​*NOTE: The video is not the exact script from the play. It is condensed and simplified.