duncan

Question 1

characterisation of duncan

Question 2

‘there’s no art to find the mind’s construction in the face’ [A1S4 - about of thane of cawdor]

Answer 2

noun: art
↳ refers to a skill

metaphor: ‘mind’s construction’
↳ inner thoughts of a being, secret plans, deception
↳ this reveals a human nature to duncan’s kingship but also reveals a weakness

dramatic irony:
↳ macbeth enters directly after this quote is said, which is ironic as we know that he will betray duncan just as the old thane of cawdor did

Question 3

‘signs of nobleness, like stars shall shine…on all deservers’ [A1S4]

Answer 3

simile
↳ duncan links goodness, loyalty and respectability with stars
↳ stars are linked with positive imagery
↳ stars are symbolic of heaven & benevolence

Question 4

‘like a naked new-born babe’ [A1S7]

Answer 4

simile: ‘like a naked new-born babe’
↳ duncan is seen as innocent as a baby, naked shows that duncan is in vulnerable & weak