Banquo Flashcards
How does Banquo show he can stop temptation
Banquo represent Macbeth antithesis Although Banquo and Macbeth both have ambitious thoughts Banquo demonstrates a restrain as he doesn’t act upon these desires
How is Banquo different to Macbeth?
The character of Banquo is the opposite to Macbeth as he represents the route that Macbeth chose not to take. The path where ambition doesn’t lead to betrayal and murder. Thus it is Banquo’s ghost,
rather than Duncan’s, that haunts Macbeth.
What does Banquo symbolize?
Shakespeare uses the constructs of Macbeth and Banquo to show how men can react when shown temptation. Banquo is portrayed as Macbeth’s foil and is therefore symbolic of man’s ability to resist temptation.
How is Banquo shows as noble?
Shakespeare demonstrates the noble qualities and Banquo’s “royalty of nature” as he is literally royal in nature - it was prophesied that “thou shalt get kings”. Also, royal in terms of virtue – he is honourable and virtuous. Thus he will disapprove of the murder, fight for justice and remain loyal to the king (Duncan) - as warned by “keep my bosom franchised”.
How does Banquo resist temptation and evil?
Banquo’s response to evil separates him from Macbeth. They are exposed to the same influences – witches and promises of greatness - however, Banquo turns to God, asking for help in resisting evil and ultimately doesn’t act on his ambitions as he recognises they are a force of evil.
How does Banquo react when the prophecies start to become true
When he finds that the prophecy is coming true he responds with “what, can the devil speak true” and this implies that he views them as agents of the devil – sees them for what they are; Banquo knows that the witches are a route of temptation to sin so he is able to resist them.
What was the purpose of Banquo?
Banquo could be used by Shakespeare to give a moral message to the audience about rejecting evil thoughts and the importance of turning to God in times of temptation.
What quote shows he shows ambition?
He is less able to resist ambition when he sleeps, shown by the comment: “I dream’d of the three weird sisters last night” (showing he subconsciously thinks about the Witches’ prophecy).
How does Banquo over come his ambitious thoughts?
But instead of trying to hide this, he confesses to God and asks for help in remaining moral and virtuous. This has Biblical connotations as Jesus was tempted three times by the devil and resisted; perhaps Shakespeare is attempting to draw parallels between the Banquo and Jesus.
What quote shows Banquo was ambition but keeps his throughs under control?
“neither beg nor fear your favours nor your hate”.
Analyse “ “neither beg nor fear your favours nor your hate”.
○ This reveals that Banquo is a very moralistic and responsible character who is not easily led astray.
○ This juxtaposes Macbeth’s response, who commands the Witches to “stay, you imperfect speakers”, revealing his desperation.
Give a quote showing he is loyal to serve him
“I shall be counselled”
Analyse “I shall be counselled”
He is willing to be advised and tempted by Macbeth, which shows he’s franchised – wants to retain the privileges he has gained from loyalty to the king and this may change to new king.
○ States that “my duties” are “forever knit” to Macbeth
○ He has shifted his loyalties and allegiance to Macbeth rapidly.
● Therefore, it is clear that his loyalty is not fixed – to any king, but rather, he is loyal only to serve himself.
Give a quote that the prophesies predict for Banquo
‘Lesser than Macbeth, and greater’
Has the ‘Lesser than Macbeth, and greater’ become true
This becomes true: In status, he is lesser (sir) but he is morally superior, with a stronger will. He remained loyal to the kind and obedient to God and the ‘Great Chain of Being’ and therefore he will have a greater afterlife.
