Banquo shows that he has recognised the Witches as evil, "What, can the devil speak true?" He also warns Macbeth. "And oftentimes, to win us to our harm, The instruments of darkness tell us truths ..." Macbeth on the other hand, plays with the predictions and seems at first to be obsessed by them and becomes 'rapt'. Does Banquo here represent normality?
Later, however,(Act II, Sc.i) we realise that Banquo is indeed torn by temptation, "...merciful powers Restrain me in the cursed thoughts that nature Gives ways to in repose" but his evil thoughts occur in dreams: Macbeth's are waking thoughts. Banquo frankly admits to dreaming of the Witches: Macbeth says untruthfully, "I think not of them". When Macbeth offers him honour "If you shall cleave to my consent, when 'tis". Banquo agrees if he can keep his honour.
This if a true reflection of Banquo's attitude, suggests that he is an honourable man. After the murder of Duncan, Banquo assumes leadership and calls for an investigation. He declares that he is on the side of right, "In the great hand of God I stand and" yet (Act III, Sc.i)in soliloquy, Banquo realises that Macbeth has been responsible for Duncan's murder "...and I fear Thou play'dst most foully for 't".
Why doesn't he act on his suspicions and reveal what he knows and what he suspects? Is it fear? Or is it that he, too, may be tempted to ensure that the Witches' prediction in respect of himself will come true? "May they not be oracles as well, And set me up in hope?" Is he here half yielding to temptation? It has been suggested that his death is a punishment for this, for accepting the notion that truth can come from the agents of evil.
