Banquo Analysis Flashcards
What does Banquo convey in this quote “I dream’d of three weird sisters last night”
He is still plagued by thoughts of the witches’ prophecies. It seems superstition is taking a hold of him and trespassing on his unconscious. This is a contrast to Macbeth who claims “I think not of them” Banquo is honest, characterising him as moral in order to amplify Macbeth’s
dishonesty and deception.
What does this quote of Banquos shows “Restrain in me the cursed thoughts”
Banquo understands the ludicrousness of plotting to kill the king based on the unsubstantiated prophecies of supernatural beings. This is the antithesis to Lady Macbeth who voluntarily calls the_ “spirits’” and supernatural forces. Banquo wants to blockade any corruption by unnatural force- he perceptively recognises them as “cursed”
What does Banquo mean in this quote “Royalty of nature”
Banquo is depicted as having an exemplary balance of ambition and respectability. His noble and majestic nature is not over- powered by his ambition. “Royalty” connotes “power” and “status”. Macbeth recognises that Banquo has maintained his power as an ambitious stoic hero whilst maintaining his status as a rational and intelligent being.
When Banquo says “Candles are out” what is implied?
He is the antithesis of deceitful, he is honest and sincere and confesses his temptation- he is emblematic of Jesus as he confesses his temptation. He comments on the lack of stars in the sky- Banquo seeks solace from heaven. Macbeth tries to hide this, opposed to confess: “stars hide your fires”, this motif of stars exposes Macbeth and Banquo as diametrically opposed in their aspirations: Macbeth wants to hide his malicious intentions from God yet Banquo wants to confess his temptations to be free of them.
