The story of Macbeth follows the life of a seemingly brave and honourable warrior during his reign as King of Scotland. Throughout the play, we see the development of Macbeth's true character, a greedy, selfish man who is easily influenced by his ambitions. Although Lady Macbeth and the three weird sisters all tempt him with the advantages of evil, they cannot act for him, and it is through his own actions that Macbeth is ultimately responsible for his unfortunate downfall and tragic death.

The play's disastrous events are set in motion in Act 1, Scene 3, when Macbeth first meets the three witches. They tell him that he will become Thane of Cawdor and then King of Scotland. Instead of dismissing their prophecies like he could have done, Macbeth inquires more from the witches.

Upon this blasted heath you stop our way

With such prophetic greeting? Speak, I charge you...