Macbeth Act 1 ~ Destiny & Fate

When Macbeth and Banquo first met the witches

I think the witches’ role in the play is critical as the plot revolves around and expands from their mysterious prophecies. Frankly, I do not know how many times they are going to reappear in the story but I am sure that each of their appearances will become an important twist for the plot. Their chant “fair is foul and foul is fair” is a paradox.  In my own words, I think it means everything fair will morph into the foul and everything foul will turn into the fair. They sarcastically imply that fair and foul is basically the same thing. So, when something fair happened, something foul will follow along inevitably. (For instance, King Duncan won the battle, but was soon killed by Macbeth; Macbeth luckily became the King but it will end up a tragedy; Banquo cannot be King but his son will.) Therefore, the interesting part of the later reading is that everything will reflect on these “fairness” and “foulness” turns their way. 

I do not know if we are all subject to our pre-determined destiny, but I think it is better to live as though we are not. Isn’t there a saying “good things will come when you least expect it”? Becoming overly concerned about ones destiny is a waste of time because regardless, we will have to experience it. Even if we are subject to pre-determined destiny, knowing it prior will not change the outcome, but by believing in it we influence the future’s will. At least, by believing in it will boost up our confidence, and ultimately enhance our strength and power to go through difficulties. I believe that beliefs generate positive energy and accepting pre-determined destiny creates negative energy. It’s always better to surround ourselves in positive energy. What do you think?