William Shakespeare wrote Macbeth in 1605 or 1606. It was first preformed at the Globe Theatre in 1606, although some suggest that it was first performed for King James I at Hampton court. What is indisputable is that it was written for the pleasure of King James I. Macbeth is considered one of Shakespeare's greatest tragedies. That it is considered a tragedy and not a historical play has been disputed. Many of the Characters in the play were historical figures from Scotland in the mid 1000's. What makes it a Tragedy and not a History Play is the liberties that Shakespeare takes in embellishments and exaggerations of the Characters. Shakespeare also bases Macbeth, not only on historical characters, but also like his other tragedies, it is based on the human condition, which is not bound to any historical era, but can be seen as timeless. This play evolves around fate, perceived fate, ambition, and guilt. Many can also argue that this play could have just as easily been named "Lady Macbeth". Lady Macbeth plays a leading role in this Play. Here ambition and her guilt over her action in many ways overshadow those of Macbeth.
             Macbeth: Starts the play off in battle defending the Scottish Kingdom from invasion and rebellion. He is seen as a great warrior. On his way back from the battle he is met by the Three Witches. He is given his Fate along with Banquo. Unlike Banquo he actively attempts to propel his prophecy forward, Driven by the thought of being King, his ambition is great but not his decisiveness. His wife Lady Macbeth pushes him to realize his Fate. Unlike other villains, Macbeth is not seen as the embodiment of evil, but as a foul able, imperfect human being who is overtaken by desire but does not have the fortitude to see that desire through. He succumbs to blood lust and guilt in the end. In his blind ambition he fails to fully understand his full fate, which foresees his downfall. His complete prophecy is fulfilled in the...