Relationship Between Macbeth And Banquo

Shakespeare introduces both Macbeth and Banquo as two noblemen, brave warriors who fought side by side courageously for their king. As the play progresses and Banquo uses his wisdom and is upheld as a foil to Macbeth who falls prey to temptation. Banquo’s reaction to the witches’ prophecy shows how he is more rational than Macbeth is. Furthermore, his skepticism to the witches’ prophecy and his decision to let fate take its course shows his wisdom and resilience to evil. Moreover, Banquo’s righteousness and selfless qualities as a person make him nobler than Macbeth, as indicated in the witches’ prophesy. Though many people consider other characters to serve as foils to Macbeth, it is Banquo’s ghost which refutes these theories, which shows Banquo’s relation to Macbeth after his death. Banquo’ characteristics that contrast Macbeth’s create a dynamic relationship between the two characters in Macbeth. Not only does the king regard them as equals,but the supernatural elements who play a crucial role in the play make …show more content…
For example, the witches say "Lesser than Macbeth, and greater/ Not so happy, yet much happier/Thou shalt get kings, though thou be none:" (Shakespeare
1.3.65-68). Shakespeare uses paradoxes to define a contrast between Banquo and Macbeth. The paradoxes suggest how Banquo will never be able to see his own glory even though he is better than Macbeth is. Banquo knew that his sons would pose a threat to Macbeth’s reign as King but chose not to do anything change fate into his favour even after Macbeth got crowned.
His last attempt to save his son Fleance from getting killed by the murderers shows he has more concern for others than for himself. Banquo is not seen as someone as honorable as Macbeth in the beginning, however, Banquo’s willpower to always do what is right for the greater good, is what makes him more virtuous than