The Importance Of Manhood In Macbeth

In William Shakespeare’s tragic play, Macbeth, the audience learns of the differing expectations and standards in regard to manhood. Shakespeare shares the individual opinions on what it means to “be a man” through the following four characters: Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, Banquo, and Macduff. During the Renaissance period, men held the responsibility for the duty of revenge. However, Shakespeare’s true opinion of what it means “to be a man” extends beyond the idea of revenge. A man should serve justice, but at the same time, demonstrate respectable traits. Thus, the character Macduff voices Shakespeare’s true opinion as he obtains revenge on Macbeth while upholding chivalrous qualities. Prior to murdering King Duncan, Macbeth believes that manhood consists of a person who experiences success as well as accomplishments. After Lady Macbeth questions his masculinity, Macbeth replies, “I dare do all that may become a man; Who dares do more is none” (1.7.46-47). Macbeth will do …show more content…
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