Shakespeare’s tragedies follow a specific plot structure that builds tension and emotional impact. In Macbeth, this structure is clearly seen: 

Crisis / Turning Point

Definition: The event that drastically changes the hero’s fate, often caused by a critical decision.
In Macbeth:
The turning point occurs when Macbeth decides to kill Banquo. After already murdering King Duncan, Macbeth chooses to continue down the path of violence, showing he's committed to keeping power at all costs.

Climax

Definition: The moment of greatest tension or conflict; the height of the action.
In Macbeth:
The climax is when Macbeth returns to the witches and receives misleading prophecies. His overconfidence grows:

• “None of woman born shall harm Macbeth.”
  
  

• “Macbeth shall never vanquished be until Great Birnam Wood to high Dunsinane Hill shall come against him.”
  
  

This gives Macbeth a false sense of invincibility.

Catastrophe

Definition: The final downfall of the tragic hero, usually ending in death and a resolution of the conflict.
In Macbeth:
The catastrophe is Macbeth’s death at the hands of Macduff.

• Macduff reveals he was born via C-section (“untimely ripped”).
  
  

• Macbeth is slain.
  
  

• Malcolm becomes king, restoring order to Scotland.