Line and character analysis of Macbeth (witches - "fair is foul and foul is fair")

A powerful sense of evil hangs over every scene of the play. To introduce this theme, the most dangerous characters who are both tremendously powerful, and utterly wicked are used. The witches, also referred to as the ‘weird sisters’ recite the words “Fair is foul, and Foul is fair” in Act 1 Scene 1. This line is a paradox. It is also a prophecy, where one thing seems like another. It is the theme of deception, and it is evident throughout the play.


This line is crucial to the play. It sets up the mood and tone. By being said by the witches it brings with it the theme of evil and a foreboding nature. This line also represents that nothing is, as it seems – a recurring concept throughout the play.


It is through the witches that we first hear of Macbeth, as they exclaim that they are going to meet with him. This automatically links Macbeth with evil, and sets the pattern of things to happen.


Witches embody an unreasoning, and instinctive evil, and are described b...