Lecture on the Character of Banquo in Macbeth

Banquo as a Foil to Macbeth

• Definition of a Foil: A character who contrasts another character, usually the protagonist, to highlight certain traits.
• Similarities to Macbeth:
  • Both are captains in the army, referred to as "our captains, Macbeth and Banquo" by King Duncan in Act 1, Scene 2.
  • Both are brave warriors.
  • Both are well respected; Duncan calls Banquo "noble," a term previously used for Macbeth.

Differences in Reaction to the Witches' Prophecies

• Prophecies Received:
  • Macbeth is told he will become king.
  • Banquo is told his descendants will be kings.
• Banquo’s Reaction:
  • Skeptical and wary, stating he does "neither beg nor fear your favors nor your hate."
• Macbeth’s Reaction:
  • Startled and ultimately driven to a campaign of violence.
• Outcome of Prophecies:
  • Macbeth acts to fulfill his prophecy.
  • Banquo does not succumb to ambition due to lack of a fatal flaw (hermatia).

Source Material and Historical Context

• Shakespeare’s Source: Hollinshed's Chronicles, where Banquo was complicit in the king's murder.
• Alterations by Shakespeare:
  • Presented Banquo in a positive light, possibly to please King James I, believed to be Banquo's descendant.

Banquo’s Internal Conflict and Complexity

• Cursed Thoughts:
  • Banquo expresses fear of his own thoughts and dreams about the witches.
  • Suggests that Banquo may have entrusted his sword to Fleance to prevent himself from evil actions.
• Suspicions of Macbeth:
  • Acknowledges Macbeth "played most foully" for his new position.
  • Does not act on his suspicions possibly due to personal gain.
• Resistance to Evil:
  • Banquo’s goodness ultimately leads to his demise.

Banquo's Complexity in Good vs. Evil

• Macbeth vs. Banquo: Represents evil vs. good.
• Critics' Observations:
  • Good and evil cannot coexist; only one can survive.
• Shakespeare’s Rewriting: Highlights the complexity of Banquo's character.

Conclusion

• Banquo’s Role: Highlights Macbeth's downfall, shows complexity within so-called "good" characters.
• Shakespeare’s Fascination: Complexity, contrasts, opposites, and the nature of human imperfection.

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