Supernatural

The supernatural in Macbeth includes the Witches, their prophecies and apparitions, and disturbing visions such as the dagger and Banquo’s ghost. These create fear and uncertainty, but they also raise a central question: does Macbeth commit his crimes because supernatural forces control him, or because he chooses to act on his ambition?

An important distinction runs through the novel: an experience can feel supernatural without having a supernatural cause. Most of Thornfield’s mysteries eventually receive human explanations. Yet the distant call that brings Jane back to Rochester remains mysterious, suggesting that their connection exceeds what ordinary reasoning can explain.

In Macbeth, the supernatural includes the witches, the spirits Lady Macbeth invokes, Macbeth’s disturbing visions and the apparitions that predict his future. These create theatrical excitement, but they also raise a serious question: does Macbeth commit crimes because supernatural forces control him, or because he chooses to pursue what they promise?