There has been a debate about whether or not Macbeth was in command of his own actions or if the witches and Lady Macbeth had been the driving forces behind his impulses. The witches started a negative snowballing effect on Macbeth's once honorable character when they prophesied his opportunity to become king. However, Macbeth's desire to become king and his actions leading to the throne were ultimately his own decisions. Macbeth first shows his interest in murdering Duncan when he arrived at his house and hinted that Duncan "purposes", but wouldn't actually, leave the next day.

Macbeth My dearest love,

Duncan comes here tonight

Lady Macbeth And when goes hence"

Macbeth To-morrow, as he purposes (I, v, 58-59)

Lord Acton once wrote "absolute power corrupts absolutely" and that is perfectly demonstrated in Macbeth. Once Macbeth was inaugurated and uncontested as king he stooped to the unconventional lows of...