Why does Macbeth think the Witches want to help him?

In analyzing Macbeth's beliefs regarding the witches' intentions to aid him, it is first necessary to consider the context in which his encounters with them take place. In Act I, Scene 3, the witches appear to Macbeth and Banquo as they journey home from battle. The witches prophesy that Macbeth will become Thane of Cawdor and eventually King of Scotland, while Banquo is told that he will father a line of kings. Despite the unnatural and eerie appearance of the witches – they are described as having beards and casting grotesque shadows – Macbeth is immediately intrigued by their predictions, while Banquo remains skeptical.Macbeth's desire for power and his propensity for ambition make him particularly susceptible to the witches' words.

Was this helpful? 5 (2)