Macbeth

by William Shakespeare

"Macbeth" by William Shakespeare is a tragedy first performed in 1606. When a Scottish general receives a prophecy from three witches that he will become king, his dormant ambition awakens. Spurred by his wife, Macbeth murders the reigning monarch and seizes the throne. But guilt and paranoia drive him to commit more killings to secure his power. This tale of unchecked ambition explores how the pursuit of power corrupts absolutely, leading to violence, madness, and destruction.