Character Analysis: Banquo

Summary

In this video, the character of Banquo in Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' is analyzed as a foil to Macbeth, highlighting their contrasting responses to the witches' prophecies. Both are brave warriors, but while Macbeth succumbs to ambition and violence, Banquo remains skeptical and moral. The video explores Banquo's potential inner conflict, his subtle complicity in Macbeth’s rise, and his eventual death at Macbeth's hands. It also considers Shakespeare's possible motivation for altering Banquo’s character to favor King James I, showing how Banquo represents good and wisdom, serving as a complex, multifaceted character in the play.

Takeaways

• 😀 Banquo serves as a foil to Macbeth, highlighting differences between the two characters.
• 😀 Both Banquo and Macbeth are brave warriors and captains, respected by Duncan, but their actions differ after meeting the witches.
• 😀 Macbeth reacts strongly to the witches' prophecy of him becoming king, while Banquo remains skeptical and cautious.
• 😀 Banquo doesn't succumb to ambition the way Macbeth does, which sets them apart in terms of moral choices.
• 😀 Shakespeare alters Banquo's portrayal from the historical account to depict him more positively, possibly due to the connection to King James I.
• 😀 Banquo is portrayed as noble and virtuous, and his descendants are prophesied to become kings, which aligns with the royal lineage of Shakespeare's time.
• 😀 Banquo's 'cursed thoughts' in Act 2 Scene 1 suggest he is troubled by his conscience and the witches' prophecy.
• 😀 Despite suspecting Macbeth of foul play, Banquo remains quiet and does not directly oppose Macbeth, potentially due to personal gain.
• 😀 Banquo's resistance to evil and moral nature ultimately cost him his life, as Macbeth fears his wisdom and goodness.
• 😀 The contrast between Macbeth's evil and Banquo's goodness emphasizes Shakespeare's exploration of complex characters and the interplay of good and evil.

Q & A

What is the role of Banquo in 'Macbeth'?

Banquo serves as a foil to Macbeth, meaning he contrasts with Macbeth to highlight certain characteristics about him. Both men are captains in the army and share similar qualities, but their reactions to the witches' prophecies reveal their key differences.

How does Banquo differ from Macbeth in their reactions to the witches' prophecies?

Banquo is skeptical and cautious about the witches' predictions, while Macbeth reacts with ambition and immediately takes matters into his own hands to fulfill the prophecy. Banquo does not let the prophecy control his actions, unlike Macbeth.

What is the significance of Banquo's prophecy?

Banquo’s prophecy states that although he will not be king, his descendants will be. This highlights the difference between him and Macbeth, as Macbeth is directly promised the throne. The prophecy about Banquo’s descendants also ties into the historical context, suggesting Shakespeare’s desire to flatter King James I, who was believed to be a descendant of Banquo.

How does Shakespeare's portrayal of Banquo differ from the historical Banquo in Holinshed’s Chronicles?

In Holinshed’s Chronicles, Banquo is depicted as part of the plot to kill the king, whereas in Shakespeare’s play, Banquo is presented as a virtuous character who is ultimately murdered by Macbeth. This change could have been influenced by Shakespeare’s desire to appeal to King James I, who was believed to be a descendant of Banquo.

What is the significance of Banquo’s actions in Act 2 Scene 1, where he gives his sword to Fleance?

Banquo’s decision to give his sword to Fleance may suggest that he fears his own potential to act on evil thoughts. His mention of 'cursed thoughts' hints at an internal struggle, possibly indicating that he doesn’t trust himself in the dangerous political environment created by Macbeth’s actions.

Why doesn’t Banquo immediately speak out against Macbeth’s actions after King Duncan’s murder?

Banquo’s response to Macbeth’s actions is ambiguous. While he expresses suspicion about how Macbeth came to power, he remains silent because he sees potential personal gain from supporting Macbeth. This aligns with his vague response when Macbeth tells him to stay loyal, as Banquo is willing to benefit from Macbeth’s kingship as long as he doesn’t lose his honor.

What does Macbeth fear about Banquo, according to Act 3 Scene 1?

Macbeth fears Banquo’s wisdom and virtuous nature. He acknowledges that Banquo’s moral guidance and honor are qualities that could threaten Macbeth’s hold on power, as Banquo represents the goodness that contrasts with Macbeth’s growing evil nature.

How does Banquo’s character function as a contrast to Macbeth?

Banquo contrasts with Macbeth by embodying good and wisdom, while Macbeth succumbs to ambition and evil. Banquo remains morally steadfast and does not let the witches' prophecy influence his actions, whereas Macbeth takes fate into his own hands, which ultimately leads to his downfall.

Why is Banquo’s death significant in the play?

Banquo’s death is significant because it marks the point at which Macbeth’s evil nature eliminates the last person who could stand as a moral and wise counterpart to him. Banquo’s resistance to Macbeth’s actions and his eventual murder signify the victory of evil over good, a key theme in the play.

What does Banquo's indecision in the face of treason suggest about his character?

Banquo's indecision highlights the complexity of his character. While he recognizes the treachery in Macbeth’s actions, he does not take immediate action to oppose him. This indecision reveals that Banquo, while morally good, is not without flaws and is influenced by self-interest, making him a more nuanced character than simply a symbol of virtue.