In addition to the knowledge of the times included above,
concerning Macbeth specifically, Shakespeare wrote it at least in
part with King James I, of King James Bible fame, in mind. That's
probably why Banquo is depicted as such a hero and a good man in the play--King James
really was a descendant of Banquo.
Shakespeare appears to
have had James in mind when he gave such prominent roles to the witches, as well. James
was fascinated with witchcraft. I don't have first-hand knowledge of the writings, but
one British Literature text that I have says James even wrote attacks against
witchcraft, until one day when a witch, upset with him, revealed information to him
about his past that no one else could have known. I don't know if this is true or not,
but the idea that James was fascinated with witchcraft is well
accepted.
Thus, Shakespeare, at least in part, wrote to
interest and please the king.
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