Banquo

• Who does Banquo represent in relation to Macbeth?

  Banquo represents Macbeth's antithesis.
• What is Banquo's character trait at the beginning of the play?

  Banquo is portrayed as a brave noble.
• What do the Witches' prophecies reveal about Banquo's future?

  His children will inherit the Scottish throne.
• How does Banquo's ambition differ from Macbeth's?

  Banquo demonstrates restraint and does not act on his ambitious thoughts.
• What does Banquo's ghost symbolize in the play?

  It symbolizes Macbeth's guilt and moral decline.
• How does Shakespeare use Banquo and Macbeth to explore temptation?

  • Banquo is a foil to Macbeth.
  • Banquo symbolizes man's ability to resist temptation.
  • Their contrasting reactions to the Witches' prophecies highlight moral choices.
• How does Macbeth react to the Witches' prophecies?

  Macbeth is entranced and absorbed by their words.
• What is Banquo's attitude towards the Witches' prophecies?

  He is indifferent and skeptical of their predictions.
• What literary device does Shakespeare use to contrast Banquo's and Macbeth's prophecies?

  Shakespeare uses antithesis in his phrasing.
• What does Banquo's moral strength signify in the play?

  It signifies the ability to resist evil and temptation.
• How does Banquo's response to temptation differ from Macbeth's?

  Banquo resists temptation while Macbeth succumbs to it.
• What does Banquo call upon to help him resist temptation?

  He calls upon God for help.
• What are Banquo's key characteristics in the play?

  • Noble and virtuous
  • Strategic in his responses
  • Resistive to evil influences
  • Aligned with Christian values
• How does Banquo's nobility manifest in his actions?

  He disapproves of murder and fights for justice.
• What is the significance of Banquo's strategic response to the Witches' prophecy?

  It allows for debate about his honor and loyalty.
• How does Banquo's suspicion of the Witches manifest in his dialogue?

  He questions their nature and motives.
• What does Banquo's comment about the Witches imply about his view of them?

  He views them as agents of the devil.
• How does Banquo's ability to resist ambition affect his character?

  It reinforces his moral superiority over Macbeth.
• What Biblical connotations are associated with Banquo's character?

  His resistance to temptation parallels Jesus' experience with the devil.
• What are the key moments involving Banquo in the play?

  1. Banquo meets the Witches (1.3)

  • Sets up tension with Macbeth.
  • His suspicion contrasts with Macbeth's belief.

  1. Banquo's murder (3.3)

  • Marks the breakdown in Macbeth's marriage.
  • Highlights Macbeth's moral decline.
• Why does Shakespeare change Banquo's portrayal from the original source material?

  To flatter King James I and support his claim to the throne.
• How does Banquo's death serve as a dramatic device in the play?

  It highlights Macbeth's moral weakness and serves political purposes.
• What does Banquo's murder signify for Lady Macbeth's character?

  It marks the beginning of her mental deterioration.
• How does the metaphor of "wading through blood" relate to Macbeth's character development?

  It symbolizes his guilt and inability to return to virtue.
• What does Banquo's character ultimately represent in the play?

  He represents moral integrity and the struggle against temptation.
• How does Macbeth's relationship with Lady Macbeth change throughout the play?

  Macbeth stops involving her in his plans and acts independently.
• How do Macbeth and Lady Macbeth's character developments contrast?

  Macbeth becomes more like Lady Macbeth was, while she becomes more like he was.
• What does Shakespeare suggest about Macbeth's greed through his actions?

  Macbeth's greed leads him to commit more evil acts, as he feels insecure.
• Who appears as a ghost at the banquet held by Macbeth?

  Banquo's ghost appears at the banquet.
• How does Banquo's ghost affect Macbeth during the banquet?

  It increases Macbeth's paranoia and chaotic thinking.
• What is the nature of the relationship between Macbeth and Banquo at the beginning of the play?

  • Strong and loyal friendship
  • Years of service together in battle
• What does Banquo instruct Fleance to do when he is attacked?

  He instructs Fleance to "fly, good Fleance, fly, fly, fly."
• How does Banquo's character serve as a foil to Macbeth?

  Banquo's moral integrity contrasts with Macbeth's ambition and moral decline.
• What does Banquo's quote about "the earth hath bubbles" signify?

  It shows his attempt to distance himself from the Witches.
• What does Banquo mean when he says "I fear thou played’st most foully for’t"?

  He suspects Macbeth of wrongdoing in achieving his title.
• How is Banquo characterized throughout the play?

  • Noble and honorable
  • Loyal to the king
  • Morally superior to Macbeth
• What does the Witches' prophecy about Banquo imply about his character?

  It suggests he is lesser in status but greater in morality.
• How does Banquo's language reflect his strategic thinking?

  He uses careful and non-committal language to reserve judgment.
• What does Banquo mean by "the instruments of darkness tell us truths"?

  He refers to the Witches as deceptive forces that may lead to betrayal.
• How does Banquo's response to Macbeth's ambition differ from Macbeth's own response?

  Banquo remains loyal and clear-headed, while Macbeth becomes desperate and ambitious.