Not only does Banquo’s bravery contribute to the victory of King Duncan’s army, but he also gains protection from his wisdom. After Macbeth and Banquo encounter the three witches, Banquo immediately disregards them as “instruments of darkness” (1.3.124). As the witches lure in Macbeth by speaking prophecies of the future, Banquo’s skepticism and discernment prevent him from believing the witches’ half truths. Banquo proves that a true man does not fall into temptation by evil. Threatened by Banquo’s wisdom, Macbeth admits, “He hath a wisdom that doth guide his valor to act in safety. There is none but he whose being I do fear; and under him my genius is rebuked” (3.1.53-56). Already alarmed by the prophecy that Banquo’s descendants will soon reign, Macbeth feels completely inferior to Banquo. Exemplifying a man of boldness and discernment, these two qualities get Banquo
Not only does Banquo’s bravery contribute to the victory of King Duncan’s army, but he also gains protection from his wisdom. After Macbeth and Banquo encounter the three witches, Banquo immediately disregards them as “instruments of darkness” (1.3.124). As the witches lure in Macbeth by speaking prophecies of the future, Banquo’s skepticism and discernment prevent him from believing the witches’ half truths. Banquo proves that a true man does not fall into temptation by evil. Threatened by Banquo’s wisdom, Macbeth admits, “He hath a wisdom that doth guide his valor to act in safety. There is none but he whose being I do fear; and under him my genius is rebuked” (3.1.53-56). Already alarmed by the prophecy that Banquo’s descendants will soon reign, Macbeth feels completely inferior to Banquo. Exemplifying a man of boldness and discernment, these two qualities get Banquo