Banquo: Macbeth's Moral Foil

Banquo serves as a crucial character in Macbeth, acting as a moral counterpoint to the titular character. His response to the witches' prophecies and subsequent actions highlight themes of temptation, loyalty, and the consequences of ambition.

Shakespeare uses Banquo to explore the contrasting responses to supernatural temptation. While both Macbeth and Banquo receive prophecies from the witches, their reactions differ significantly:

Quote: Banquo states, "Why do you start and seem to fear / Things that do sound so fair?" This line emphasizes his skepticism towards the witches' words, contrasting with Macbeth's eager acceptance.

Banquo's character is consistently described as noble and virtuous, reinforcing his role as a moral exemplar:

Highlight: Words like "noble" and "worthy" are repeatedly used to describe Banquo, establishing his reputation for loyalty and honor.

The play draws parallels between Banquo and biblical figures, particularly Jesus, to underscore his moral strength:

1. Banquo resists temptation, mirroring Jesus' resistance to the devil's temptations.
2. He seeks divine help to overcome "cursed thoughts," aligning with Christian teachings.

Example: Banquo's line "Merciful powers, restrain in me the cursed thoughts that nature gives way to in repose!" demonstrates his active resistance to temptation and reliance on faith.

Shakespeare's portrayal of Banquo would have resonated with the contemporary audience's religious beliefs and fears about witchcraft. His skepticism towards the witches and reliance on God align with the views promoted by King James I and the Church.

Vocabulary: Foil - a character whose qualities contrast with and therefore emphasize those of another character.

However, Shakespeare adds complexity to Banquo's character, hinting at potential ambition and strategic thinking:

1. His interest in the prophecies for his sons suggests some ambition.
2. His careful language when discussing allegiances implies political awareness.

This nuanced portrayal raises questions about the nature of virtue and the challenges of maintaining moral integrity in a corrupt world.

Quote: Banquo's statement "I must keep my bosom franchised and allegiance clear" can be interpreted as either a declaration of loyalty or a strategic non-commitment.

By contrasting Banquo's choices with Macbeth's, Shakespeare explores the themes of free will, morality, and the consequences of giving in to temptation. Banquo's character serves as both a moral compass and a complex individual, enriching the play's exploration of human nature and the struggle between good and evil.