significance of minor characters

• Comic Relief


  The Porter's scene, known as the "Porter Scene" (Act 2, Scene 3), provides comic relief by lessening the tension in the audience following the murder of King Duncan. His drunkenness and humor contrast sharply with the grim scenes that precede and follow.
• The Gentlewoman


  Lady Macbeth's attendant and the first to observe Lady Macbeth's sleepwalking and strange behaviour. Her observations provide the audience with a first-hand account of Lady Macbeth's guilt and mental decline. She refuses to repeat what Lady Macbeth says in her sleep, indicating the severity of Lady Macbeth's revelations.
• The Doctor


  Called upon to diagnose Lady Macbeth's condition. He recognizes that Lady Macbeth's affliction is psychological, not physical, stating that she needs divine intervention more than medical help. His role underscores the theme of the damaging effects of guilt and unchecked ambition.
• Symbolism: The Porter


  • imagines himself as the porter of hell gate. 
  • In medieval mystery plays, hell was represented as a castle and its gate was guarded by a porter. 
  • This symbolism suggests that Macbeth’s castle has become like hell, reflecting the moral decay within
• Irony: The Porter’s speech


   

  • He unknowingly describes Macbeth’s castle as hell and Macbeth as a devil, which is ironically accurate considering Macbeth’s actions
  • serves as a piece of dramatic irony
• Theme of Deception: The Porter scene


  • His words about equivocation and deceit reflect the deceptive nature of Macbeth’s rise to power
  • contributes to the overall theme of deception and appearance versus reality in "Macbeth"
• Messenger: Ross 


  • His role as a messenger is crucial in advancing the plot
  • He delivers vitally important information to King Duncan, Macbeth, Macduff, and Siward
  • serves as a messenger throughout the play