Surprising parallels: How The Changeling is similar to "Macbeth" by William Shakespeare

In the episode of The Changeling titled "Asterisk," Victor LaValle explores themes of transformation, the presence of witches, and the power of water. While the episode delves into various plotlines, one cultural touchpoint that parallels many of these themes is William Shakespeare's renowned tragedy, "Macbeth." In this article, we will explore the similarities between "Macbeth" and the episode, focusing on themes such as ambition, the supernatural, and the consequences of unchecked desires.Like "Macbeth," the episode "Asterisk" delves into the transformative power of water. In "Macbeth," the presence of water is symbolic of emotional and psychological transformation. The witches in the play are often associated with water, and their prophecies drive Macbeth to pursue his ambitious desires. Similarly, in the episode, the characters encounter the mysterious William, who offers them a significant sum of money for a book. As they join him on his boat, tension arises when they realize something has been stolen, leading to a transformative and potentially dangerous situation. Water, in this context, becomes a source of uncertainty and change, mirroring the theme of transformation found in "Macbeth."The presence of witches is another common theme between the episode and "Macbeth." In Shakespeare's play, the witches play a central role in shaping the protagonist's destiny. Their prophecies, though deceptive, entice Macbeth into a spiral of ambition and moral decay. Similarly, in "Asterisk," the characters question the presence of witches, raising doubts about whether they hold a significant influence over events. This parallel invites reflection on the role of the supernatural and the consequences of falling under its spell. Just as Macbeth is manipulated by the witches, the characters in the episode confront the possibility of outside forces guiding their actions.Ambition and desire are central themes in both the episode and "Macbeth." In the play, Macbeth's desire for power and his relentless ambition lead to his downfall. He succumbs to the temptation of the prophecies, committing heinous acts to achieve his goals. Similarly, in the episode, William's ambition to reconcile with his estranged wife drives him to spend all his savings on a meaningful first-edition book. His desire to win her back blinds him to potential dangers and hidden motives. By paralleling "Macbeth" in this manner, the episode explores the destructive power of unchecked desires and the consequences that arise from pursuing them relentlessly.The consequences of unchecked desires are further explored through the character of Apollo in the episode. As Apollo's suspicions grow, he must make decisions that could have far-reaching consequences. Similarly, Macbeth's unchecked ambition leads him to commit regicide, ultimately resulting in his own demise and the collapse of his kingdom. Both characters face moral dilemmas and must confront the ramifications of their actions. The parallel between Apollo and Macbeth highlights the moral complexity that arises when individuals prioritize their desires over ethical boundaries.In conclusion, the episode "Asterisk" of The Changeling, written by Victor LaValle, touches upon various themes that parallel William Shakespeare's "Macbeth." These themes include the transformative power of water, the presence of witches, ambition, and the consequences of unchecked desires. By drawing comparisons between the episode and the play, we gain a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations, the moral dilemmas they face, and the potential repercussions of their actions. Both "Macbeth" and "Asterisk" serve as cautionary tales, reminding us of the dangers that accompany unchecked ambition and the allure of the supernatural.