The Tragedy of Macbeth (more commonly known as Macbeth) is a tragedy by William Shakespeare about a man who commits regicide in order to become king and then murders more people to retain his power. The play is believed to have been written some time between 1603 and 1607. The themes explored in the play are the corrupting effect of ambition, tyranny, violence, prophecy and the disruption of natural order. In theatrical circles, some believe the play is cursed and will only use the name "the Scottish play" to refer to the title.