In Shakespeare's "Macbeth" supernatural forces create a suspenseful atmosphere. The use of the supernatural in the witches, the visions, the ghost and the apparitions provides the backbone of the climax and "excuses" for Macbeth's change of character. Because conscience plays such a central role in Macbeth's tragic struggle, many critics use spiritual and supernatural theories to illuminate the drama's character development. The play opens with the use of the supernatural when three witches encounter Macbeth on his way home from a battle and proceed to predict his fate. This gives the audience a glimpse of the path the play will...
consequences of his actions by death. Though Banquo also suffered consequences of honesty, his heirs benefited in the long run by inheriting the crown.

Macbeth's decisions were influenced by supernatural encounters, causing him to tragically meet a doomed fate. These paranormal experiences and influences caused Macbeth to choose certain paths, only to lead him to self-destruction. Had the witches, ghosts, and visions not occurred throughout the play, what other courses would have been walked to lead him to his ill-fated destiny? Without the guidance of these forces, Macbeth's fate would have been altered and the plot would be non-existent.