In the early 1600s, William Shakespeare wrote an Aristotelian tragedy "Macbeth" that provides its audiences, both then and now, with many valuable insights and perceptions into human nature. Shakespeare achieves this by skillfully employing many dramatic devices and themes within the character of “Macbeth.” Macbeth is depicted as an anti-hero; a noble protagonist with a tragic flaw that leads to his downfall. This tragic flaw in Macbeth, heavily laden with the themes of "destiny or free will" and "ambition", is highlighted by Shakespeare in his writings to present us with a character whose actions and eventual death are, if not praiseworthy , very recognizable as human failures. William Shakespeare draws Macbeth as an ambitious usurper who nevertheless has some virtues: courage, uprightness, and a devoted love for his wife. In doing so, Shakespeare demonstrates that he understands the dual nature of human beings. At the beginning of the play, Macbeth is portrayed as a brave and noble warrior, who fought valiantly for his king, until he finally met the witches. “For brave Macbeth, well, he deserves that name,” (Act 1, scene 2, line 16). There is dramatic irony as only the audience knows that Macbeth will soon betray the king, showing his duplicity. Macbeth is praised by the sergeant for his bravery in battle. “O brave cousin! worthy gentleman!” Duncan replies, and we the audience see the esteem in which Macbeth is held and the nobility he has shown as a soldier and loyal relative. This leads to Macbeth being ennobled with the title Thane of Cawdor which later generates in him the hope of inheriting the crown. Macbeth soon meets the witches and they prophesy that Macbeth will be crowned king of Scotland, unleashing his passion for ambition into... middle of paper... brokenness and fall. Shakespeare, with his precious vision of society and human nature, asks us the question; should we accept that what will be will be, or should we seek to be the masters of our own destiny? Shakespeare clearly explores the themes of “Destiny and Free Will” and “Ambition” within this tragedy. Shakespeare weaves these themes around the character of Macbeth, showing us the depth of his vision of human society. Macbeth fell victim to his interpretation of supernatural prophecies and his wife's influence. His impatience for the throne led to his crimes, subsequent guilt, and recognition of his sins. Shakespeare presents Macbeth's life to his audience as a morality tale, warning them of how men should be careful how they view the ideas of luck and fate and how, ultimately, evil intentions and actions bring with them their own punishment..