Banquo

Banquo

1. Initial impression is very positive

   • Courageous and loyal patriot
     • Meeting with witches
       • Contrasting reaction to Macbeth
         • Highlights nobility and lack of ambition
         • Contrast character to Macbeth

2. Shrewd character

   • Perceives that witches are fundamentally evil
   • Says witches may trick and betray Macbeth
   • Astuteness is seen in unwillingness to accept that Duncan was killed by own guards
   • Declares that scottish lords should investigate

3. Changes as the seed of ambition takes root in his mind

   • Start of Act2, prays to 'merciful powers' to help him resist temptation
   • By Act3, tarnished by ambition
   • Suspects Macbeth but says nothing
     • Hopes prophecies for his sons will come thrue
   • Failure to investigate Duncan's murder shows moral decline
     • Failure to take action is morally wrong and puts Fleance at risk
       • Victim to Macbeth's tyranny
         • Innate nobility
         • Banquo's prophecies
   • Corrupt