Macbeth is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare that explores themes of ambition, power, and guilt. The play follows the story of Macbeth, a Scottish general who encounters three witches that prophesy his rise to kingship. Fueled by their predictions and his own ambition, he murders King Duncan to seize the throne. This act sets off a chain of events that leads to paranoia, madness, and further violence.
The moral decline of Macbeth is central to the narrative. After the initial murder, he becomes increasingly tyrannical and desperate to maintain his power. Lady Macbeth, who initially instigates the murder, also descends into madness due to guilt. Their relationship deteriorates as they are consumed by their respective obsessions and fears.
Ultimately, Macbeth's reign is marked by bloodshed and betrayal, leading to his downfall. He is confronted by those he wronged, and his overconfidence in the witches' prophecies blinds him to the growing threat against him. The play ends with Macbeth's death and the restoration of rightful order, underscoring the themes of justice and the consequences of unchecked ambition.