King Duncan

King Duncan

1. Divinity

   • King Duncan rules with the divine right of kings
     • He is compared to god on earth
       • "silver skin lac'd with . . . golden blood"
       • "by the grace of Grace / We will perform."
         • When a king not chosen by god (Macbeth) is in power, there is tyranny
           • The play is trying to persuade the reader of the divine right of kings

2. Order

   • Duncan fits the stereotype of the perfect king
     • He speaks with formal language
       • "Give me your hand. Conduct me to mine host"
     • He speaks graciously and politely
       • "Fair and noble hostess, We are your guest tonight"

3. Humility

   • He shows self awareness unlike Macbeth
     • He admits he was mistaken when judging McDonwald
       • "There's no art to find the mind's construction in the face"
         • This lack of ability in judging people comes back to haunt him
           • He fails to judge Macbeth correctly and this results in his death

4. Context

   • Divine right of kings strongly endorsed by King James I
     • Macbeth was to be performed before the king
       • Shakespeare wanted to impress the king
         • He used the kings beliefs as a way of flattering him