Physical Appearance:
* Unnatural and grotesque: They are described as "weird sisters" with "filthy" and "rough" appearances. Their faces are described as "hag-ridden" and "rough," suggesting they are aged, withered, and have a haunting, almost monstrous quality.
* Cunning and deceptive: They wear "coats of the time" and "gild," suggesting a cunning ability to blend in with their surroundings and deceive those around them.
* Mysterious and otherworldly: Their "eyes" are described as "hollow" and "wild," conveying a sense of deep mystery and otherworldly connection.
Powers and Abilities:
* Foretelling the future: They are capable of seeing into the future and predicting events, even those seemingly impossible. Their prophecies are both vague and specific, leaving room for interpretation and manipulation.
* Manipulative and powerful: They are able to influence events and manipulate individuals, playing on their desires and vulnerabilities. They use their knowledge of the future to control and exploit others.
* Supernatural and demonic: Their presence is marked by thunder, lightning, and unnatural weather, suggesting a connection to dark forces beyond human understanding.
Symbolic Significance:
* Embodiment of evil: The witches represent the dark side of human nature, temptation, and the allure of power. Their influence corrupts Macbeth and drives him to commit terrible deeds.
* Agents of fate: They are seen as figures of fate, driving the action of the play and shaping the destiny of its characters. Their pronouncements are both a reflection of and a catalyst for the events that unfold.
* Ambiguous and open to interpretation: Their true nature and motives are never fully revealed, leaving room for debate and speculation about their role in the play.
Overall, the witches are described as powerful, ambiguous figures who represent the darker aspects of human nature. They are both fascinating and terrifying, playing a pivotal role in the tragedy of Macbeth.