Why was Hecate Added to Macbeth?

Introduction

James I of England, known as James VI of Scotland, was a monarch deeply fascinated by witchcraft. This fascination influenced Shakespeare’s work, particularly Macbeth. During his reign, Shakespeare’s aim was to appeal to a king who could profoundly impact the success of his plays. This article delves into why Hecate, the queen of witches, was added to Macbeth and explores the collaborative nature of Elizabethan and Jacobean theater.

Witches as Part of Reality

In Shakespeare’s era, witches were not seen merely as figments of human imagination. Instead, they were regarded as real entities, part of the world as people understood it. This belief in the existence of witches and magic was prevalent among the general population, which contributed to the enduring popularity of such themes in literature and theater.

Collaborative Wonders of the Theater

It is worth noting that collaboration was common in the theater during this period. Macbeth is not an exception; it was, to some extent, a collaborative effort. Thomas Middleton, for instance, was involved in writing the song “Come Away, Come Away,” a scene that is part of the original Shakespearean script. Middleton might have contributed more to the play, as was common for many playwrights of the time. Shakespeare himself was known to collaborate with other writers to enhance the spectacle and appeal of his plays.

One of the significant additions that suggests Middleton’s influence in Macbeth is the introduction of Hecate, the queen of witches. The character of Hecate brings a new dimension to the play, adding a level of spectacle and intrigue. The playwrights were likely seeking to make the play more complex and visually engaging, drawing on the public’s fascination with witchcraft.

The Historical Context: James I and Witchcraft

The addition of Hecate to Macbeth can be traced back to the historical context of the time. After the accession of James VI of Scotland to the English throne as James I, England saw a heightened interest in witchcraft. In 1603, James inherited the Scottish throne and then, upon his father's death, the English throne. As a result, the practices of witchcraft gained new prominence in the royal court and among the general public.

James I himself was a staunch believer in witchcraft. He even wrote a treatise on the subject titled The Daemonologie, which outlines his views on witches and their role in society. This personal belief undoubtedly influenced his patronage of plays like Macbeth. Shakespeare, in an effort to secure his position and the success of his plays, tailored them to please the king.

Even more than appealing to the public, pleasing the king was essential for the survival and success of Shakespeare’s company. By including elements that resonated with the monarch’s beliefs, Shakespeare ensured that his plays would be well-received and possibly given particular royal performances. This was a strategy used by many playwrights of the era, as the support of the royal court often meant critical acclaim and financial stability.

Conclusion

The inclusion of Hecate in Macbeth was a strategic decision made by Shakespeare and, likely, his collaborators. It was a reflection of the theater’s collaborative nature, the historical fascination with witchcraft, and the personal beliefs of the king. By incorporating Hecate, the play not only provided spectacle and entertainment but also catered to the interests of the time and the priorities of those in power.