banquo

Question 1

Why do you think Shakespeare included this character?

Answer 1

Banquo serves as a moral contrast to Macbeth. While both men hear the
witches’ prophecies, Banquo remains loyal and virtuous, emphasizing Macbeth’s moral weakness.

Question 2

How does this character develop as the play progresses?

Answer 2

Banquo begins as Macbeth’s ally but grows suspicious of him (I fear thou
play dst most foully for’t). Even in death, Banquo remains significant as his ghost haunts Macbeth and symbolizes his failure to secure the throne for his lineage.

Question 3

3. Which scenes do they play an important part in?

Answer 3

Act 1, Scene 3 (Banquo and Macbeth meet the witches), Act 2, Scene 1
(Banquo expresses suspicion of the witches), Act 3, Scene 1 (Banquo suspects Macbeth), Act 3, Scene 4 (Banquo’s ghost at the banquet).

Question 4

4. Does thinking about a theme develop your understanding of this character?

Answer 4

The theme of fate vs. free will is crucial to Banquo. Unlike Macbeth, Banquo
does not act on the witches prophecies, showing his moral superiority and trust in fate

Question 5

5. Does the historical context of the play develop your understanding of the character?

Answer 5

Banquo’s lineage aligns with James l’s ancestry, portraying Banquo as an ideal, virtuous figure to flatter Shakespeare’s patron.

Question 6

quote that Reflects banquos skepticism of the witches.

Answer 6

“If you can look into the seeds of time, and say which grain will grow and which will
not” (Act 1, Scene 3)

Question 7

reveals his suspicion of Macbeth’s treachery.

Answer 7

“Thou hast it now: king, Cawdor, Glamis, all… and I fear thou play’dst most
foully for ‘t (Act 3, Scene 1)

Question 8

Banquo’s final words, showing his concern for his son’s safety.

Answer 8

“Fly, good Fleance, fly, fly, fly!” (Act 3, Scene 3)