act 1

• In Act One, we are presented with the ideal king through King Duncan.   ‘valiant cousin’ =  premodifying adjective used by Duncan in act 1 scene 2 to elevate his soldiers, he treats both Macbeth and Banquo as equals, he does not discriminate between those deserving of his praise.  

   ‘worthy’ = praises his men/ gratitude.  He rewards Macbeth’s bravery; he is a benevolent and fair king, the epitome of key virtues associated with a well liked monarch. Duncan also admits his own misplaced judgement in the Thane of Cawdor showing he is human.
• In act 1 scene 6 Duncan is a grateful guest and compliments Lady Macbeth’s abilities to host: ’our honoured hostess!’ And later ‘Give me your hand. Conduct me to mine host. We love him highly’. His language is highly emotive and complimentary. He treats all of his subjects irrespective of gender with care and tenderness. 
• Macbeth is emotionally conflicted in a long soliloquy in act 1 scene 7 as he deliberates whether to complete the act of regicide: ‘We will proceed no further in this business./He hath honored me of late’…’Duncan Hath borne his faculties so meek, hath been So clear in his great office, that his virtues Will plead like angels, trumpet-tongued’.  Here he believes Duncan’s death is against god’s will, against the divide right of kings and the chain of being. If ‘angels’ will ‘plead’ (a verb of desperation for someone deeply invested in that which they seek to save) then Duncan must be highly valuable as a monarch. 
• King Duncan’s kingship is depicted as legitimate, benevolent, and commanding respect. Duncan describes the traitorous thane of Cawdor’s execution:"There’s no art / To find the mind’s construction in the face." (Act 1, Scene 4).This quote underscores Duncan’s belief in the importance of loyalty and the divine right of kings, trusting that true kingship reveals itself through virtue, not deception.
• When Macbeth and Banquo encounter the witches, Macbeth is hailed as future king:"All hail, Macbeth! Hail to thee, Thane of Glamis! / All hail, Macbeth! Hail to thee, Thane of Cawdor! / All hail, Macbeth! That shalt be king hereafter!" (Act 1, Scene 3).This moment introduces the idea that kingship is a destiny that can be foretold, but also that it may be influenced by supernatural forces and ambition.
• Duncan’s visit to Macbeth’s castle symbolizes the trust and hospitality associated with kingship:"This castle hath a pleasant seat; the air / Nimbly and sweetly recommends itself / Unto our gentle senses." (Act 1, Scene 6).This reflects the idea that a good king’s presence is a source of comfort and stability.