Macbeth is introduced as a strong, brave character through a speech about him in battle. "For brave Macbeth- well he deserves the name-disdaining fortune- with his brandished steel, which smoked with bloody execution." Macbeth is praised for being a tough, honorable soldier. Even though the witches speak good about Macbeth, they hint that there is a dark side to him. Witches were seen as satanic and evil servants. If they are so frowned upon, why is Macbeth drawn to them?
When the witches say "fair is foul, and foul is fair" I think it's foreshadowing to possibly Macbeth not being able to distinguish the difference between fair and foul since it seems to be that Macbeth has a hidden dark side. It foreshadows a discrepancy between how someone is and how someone seems (Macbeth). Witches were seen as agents of Satan so their presence alone foreshadows satanic characteristics.
Shakespeare provides us with a vague prophecy that does not include instructions for Macbeth, therefore not spoiling the play for us. He does however say through the witches that Macbeth will jump two positions from where he currently hold, therefore, the characters holding those positions are likely going to be involved in an unfortunate event.
Shakespeare's characterization of Macbeth gives readers a feeling that yes Macbeth is looked highly of, but that he has a hidden side/agenda.
Guilt seems like an evident theme that will drive the rest of the play. Macbeth is going to do something that he is going to regret. This glorious "hero" will somehow cause a bad ending.
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