Hamlet - Act 1 Scene 4 Commentary

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 Act 1 Scene 4 Commentary

 This is a scene full of irony and foreshadowing and marks a defining moment in the play's plot. As Macbeth's inevitable future begins to take shape we see his transition from the hero, into the tragic hero.

 The scene opens with King Duncan asking about the execution of the former Thane of Cawdor, as he speaks to his son, Malcolm, he says, "There's no art to find the mind's construction in the face. He was a gentleman on whom I built an absolute trust." Duncan is essentially saying that he should not have put his full trust in him based on the way that he appeared and acted.

 Duncan's statement is an example of dramatic irony, because as the audience we know that Duncan's trust in Macbeth ultimately leads to his demise. Duncan continues by commending Macbeth on the battle won, and tells him that he owes Macbeth more than he can ever repay him. Little does Duncan know, in giving Macbeth the title of thane of Cawdor he is also giving Macbeth his throne and his life.

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 The irony continues as Macbeth humbles himself by saying, "...our duties are to your throne and state children and servants, which do but what they should..." In other words, Macbeth is saying that just as a servant or child does as they should, so does he do all that he is capable of in the name of King Duncan.

 Duncan continues to commend both Macbeth and Banquo on their valiant effort in battle, but oddly enough Banquo is as deserving as Macbeth yet receives nothing. Even Duncan recognizes this, "... Noble Banquo, that hast no less deserved, nor must ...

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