In literature many characters have been described and referred to as heroes. There are heroes, epic heroes, and tragic heroes. Shakespeare has written several works that demonstrate various unique heroes. One of those great tragic heroes is Macbeth in the famous tragedy Macbeth. As stated above, each main character is unique and different in their own way and they have qualities as well as weaknesses that shape them to be what they are. Many different opposite qualities can be seen Macbeth as he acts in different ways and he has difficulty in obtaining what he wants. Of course, that just adds to their heroic qualities but Macbeth can be seen as a hero and a villain, more a villain than a hero. Since Macbeth is neither saint nor total and utter villain, he has a tragic flaw, and he has excessive pride, it is hard to not see how Macbeth is both a hero and a villain. Macbeth in the Shakespearean tragedy Macbeth is a prime example of one of the best tragic heroes in literature.
             Macbeth at the beginning of the play is considered and seen as a hero. He has just won the war against Norway for King and country. He is a war hero and this inspires noble virtue within him. Macbeth in the first act is a loyal servant of the crown and he is a great warrior but sadly enough these positive qualities of his were not to last long. Macbeth hears prophecies from three witches as he is riding home with his loyal general Banquo. The three witches tell him that he is soon to be Thane of Cawdor and that he will eventually be king. The witches prophesize for Banquo as well telling him that he will not be king but be father to a great line of kings. Macbeth's attitude swings in another direction this early in the plot and an apparent hidden ambition presides over him, forcing him to think about the possibilities of being king. Macbeth actually didn't even believe the three witches' prophecies at first but then Ross came in ...