In Shakespeare’s “Macbeth,” fate and free will are intricately intertwined, creating a complex narrative on the nature of destiny and choice. The witches’ prophecies introduce the theme of fate, suggesting a predetermined path for Macbeth’s rise to power and his eventual downfall. These prophecies ignite Macbeth’s ambitions, making him believe that his destiny is to become king. However, the play emphasizes that it is Macbeth’s own actions and decisions, driven by ambition and spurred on by Lady Macbeth, that lead to his tragic end.

Macbeth exercises his free will in choosing to murder King Duncan, Banquo, and others to secure his position and fulfill the prophecies. His actions demonstrate that, despite the influence of fate, it is his own moral choices and desires that bring about his demise. The witches may predict what will happen, but they do not control Macbeth’s actions; he is responsible for his own decisions.

Thus, “Macbeth” suggests that while fate sets certain events in motion, it is free will that ultimately determines the outcome. The interplay between fate and free will in the play highlights the complexity of human nature and the consequences of unchecked ambition​