Macbeth is one of William Shakespeare's darkest and shortest tragedies, exploring the corrupting influence of ambition and guilt. The Scottish general Macbeth is told by three witches that he will one day be King of Scotland. Driven by this prophecy and the relentless ambition of his wife, Lady Macbeth, he murders King Duncan and usurps the throne. The play chronicles the escalating violence, paranoia, and moral decay that follow their treasonous act, leading to widespread chaos and their inevitable, bloody downfall. The tragedy is a profound study of evil, fate, and the psychological burden of tyranny.
