Compare the Characters of Macbeth and Banquo at the Beginning of the Play

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Adam Ward 10H

18th April 2002

Compare the Characters of Macbeth and Banquo at the Beginning of the Play

Macbeth is the Thane of Glamis and is a General.  He is in close succession to the throne but the King Duncan has two sons and has not yet chosen a successor.  Macbeth is also a tragic hero.  Shakespears tragic heroes pay the price for believing that they can control their own destinies.  Macbeths flaw is his ambition.

Banquo, a general too, and like Macbeth a Thane.  Macbeth and Banquo are friends.  However, Banquo is not as close to the succession of the throne as Macbeth is.  

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Macbeth and Banquo have been fighting battles, defending the King from Macdonald and a Norwegian King.  They were victorious in both battles, resulting in people, including the King Duncan, admire and respect them.

Macbeth’s character is gradually built up during scene two and is portrayed as a hero before we actually see him.  “Brave Macbeth – well he deserves that name.”  Another quote used is “Like valour’s minion.”  This imagery makes Macbeth appear brave and strong and shows that people respect him and look up to him.  Macbeth is thought of such a hero, that he is thought ...

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