Kingship and tyranny Quotes

Question 1

A4 S3 (Malcolm)
“But I have none. The king-becoming graces,
As justice, verity, temperance, stableness,
Bounty, perseverance, mercy, lowliness,
Devotion, patience, courage, fortitude,”

Answer 1

In this quote Malcolm pretends he lacks the qualities of kingship to test Macduff’s loyalty to Scotland. The quote lists the qualities a King should possess, reinforcing the Chain of Being and the importance of leading effectively. Malcolm also implies he would be a better King than Macbeth.

Question 2

A4S1 Stage directions

“Enter a show of eight kings, and the last with a glass in his hand.”

Answer 2

The stage directions here reveal to Macbeth that Banquo’s heirs will rule the country and symbolise his failure. They also contribute to his fear, anxiety and further loss of control.The parade of Kings also give homage to King James, who the play was produced for.

Question 3

A5S5 Macbeth

“Liars and slaves”

Answer 3

Macbeth’s tone is aggressive and he belittles the servant who delivers the news of Birnam Wood moving towards him. Demonstrating that Macbeth’s fury and that publicly he is still denying the possibility of his defeat (even though privately he seems more accepting of this). His derogatory tone implies he lacks respect for those who serve him.

Question 4

A5S9 Malcolm
“By the grace of Grace
We will perform in measure, time and place.”

Answer 4

Grace means God, imploying once more that Kings are ordained by God. The use of the inclusive personal pronoun implies he will rule fairly and with support from the country. The triplet, ‘measure, time and place’ implies a sense of unity and completion and that Malcolm has restored unity to Scotland. This is another reference to King James’ rule, which united England and Scotland.