How Did the Witches in Macbeth Predict Macbeth Would Become Thane of Cawdor? An Analysis of Their Prophecies and Predictive Techniques

The witches in Shakespeare's Macbeth are enigmatic figures, foretelling the future in cryptic and compelling ways. Their prophecies, particularly the one predicting that Macbeth would become Thane of Cawdor, remain a subject of intrigue and discussion among scholars. One of the fascinating aspects of their prophecies is their use of unrhymed trochaic pentameter, a linguistic choice that enhances the otherworldly nature of their words.

The Language and Rhythm of the Witches: Unrhymed Trochaic Pentameter

The witches' prophecies are delivered in a manner that is both alien and gripping. This is achieved through the use of unrhymed trochaic pentameter, a form of rhythm that mimics the reverse of a heartbeat, creating a unique and unsettling melody. Each line consists of five metrical feet, each foot being a trochee (DA-dum). This deviates significantly from the more common iambic pentameter, which mimics the natural rhythm of speech, creating a more familiar and soothing rhythmic structure.

This choice of language and rhythm serves a dual purpose. First, it emphasizes the otherworldly nature of the witches. Their ability to speak in such an unconventional manner highlights their supernatural origins and the impossibility of their predictions coming true through natural means. Second, it creates a sense of intrigue and dread, as the audience is not accustomed to such language and is thus drawn into the mystery of the prophecies.

The use of trochaic pentameter by the witches is not the only instance of breaking metrical convention in Macbeth. Later in the play, when the witches address Banquo, they use short lines of trochee tetrameter (DA-dum DA-dum DA-dum DA-dum), further reinforcing their otherworldly presence. By doing so, Shakespeare provides a playful wink: the witches are not just characters breaking the rules, but the playwright is also subtly reminding the audience of the supernatural element of the play.

Analyzing the Prophecy of Thane of Cawdor

The prophecy predicting that Macbeth would become Thane of Cawdor has a significant impact on the plot of Macbeth. The witches hail Macbeth with the titles of Thane of Glamis, Thane of Cawdor, and eventually King. They predict that Macbeth would become Thane of Glamis, which is his rightful title by birth. They proceed to further suggest that Macbeth would become Thane of Cawdor, a position held by Duncan, who had recently created him.

The prophecy of becoming Thane of Cawdor comes true in a relatively short period, which makes it a powerful inciting incident. The witches’ unpredictability and the correlation between their prophecies and events in the play make them appear more accurate than they truly are. This aspect of their predictions heightens the sense of foreboding and adds to the dramatic tension of the narrative.

Understanding the Impact and Interpretation of the Witches' Prophecies

The witches’ prophecies, particularly those predicting that Macbeth would become Thane of Cawdor, serve multiple functions in the play. They are not merely a device for advancing the plot; they are a reflection of the psychological and thematic complexities of Macbeth himself.

Macbeth’s initial reaction to the prophecy is one of shock and disbelief, a common response to supernatural predictions. However, the fulfillment of the prophecy in such a short time period, and the potential for further prophecy (Macbeth becoming king), likely deepen his suspicion and ambition, ultimately leading to his downfall. The witches' prophecies, therefore, symbolize the corrupting influence of ambition and the dire consequences that result from succumbing to such desires.

Conclusion

The witches in Macbeth use unrhymed trochaic pentameter to deliver their prophecies, emphasizing their otherworldly origins and creating a powerful and memorable narrative voice. The prediction that Macbeth would become Thane of Cawdor is a crucial inciting incident in the play, one that sets in motion a series of events that ultimately lead to tragedy. Through their linguistic choices and the fulfillment of their prophecies, the witches serve as agents of fate and foreshadowing, contributing significantly to the play's overall impact and thematic depth.

Keywords: Macbeth, prophecy, Thane of Cawdor, Shakespeare, supernatural prediction