Key Takeaways
- Macbeth succumbs to darkness, while Banquo is associated with light.
- Macbeth is tempted by the witches’ prophecies, while Banquo rejects them.
- Both Macbeth and Banquo are generals in King Duncan’s army.
In William Shakespeare’s play ‘Macbeth’, the characters Macbeth and Banquo serve as two contrasting figures. Macbeth is a general in King Duncan’s army who is tempted by the prophetic greetings of the three witches, leading him down a dark path. With the help of his wife, Lady Macbeth, he becomes king after murdering King Duncan. However, he is tormented by the consequences of his actions and is eventually killed by Macduff.
On the other hand, Banquo is also a general in King Duncan’s army but rejects the witches’ prophecies, acting as an emblem of light. He is eventually murdered by Macbeth out of fear, but his son Fleance escapes. Throughout the play, Banquo serves as a contrast to Macbeth’s evilness.
Who is Macbeth?
Macbeth is a general in King Duncan’s army who encounters the three witches after a battle. They tempt him with prophecies, revealing that he will become Thane of Glamis, Thane of Cawdor, and eventually king. Due to his ambitious nature, Macbeth is intrigued by these prophecies and ultimately succumbs to darkness. With the support of his wife, Lady Macbeth, he murders King Duncan and ascends to the throne. However, his guilt and fear drive him to continue committing heinous acts, and he ultimately meets his end at the hands of Macduff.
Who is Banquo?
Banquo is also a general in King Duncan’s army and fights bravely alongside Macbeth. After their encounter with the witches, Banquo rejects their prophecies, despite being told that he will father a line of kings. Macbeth fears Banquo’s suspicions and arranges for his murder, but Banquo’s son Fleance manages to escape. Even after Banquo’s death, Macbeth is haunted by his ghost. Throughout the play, Banquo serves as a foil to Macbeth’s evil deeds, representing the forces of good and light.
What is the difference between Macbeth and Banquo?
The main differences between Macbeth and Banquo are their reactions to the witches’ prophecies and their associations with light and darkness. Macbeth is intrigued by the witches’ prophecies and ultimately succumbs to darkness, while Banquo instantly rejects their predictions and remains associated with light. Both characters are generals in King Duncan’s army, but their choices and actions lead them down very different paths.
