Who Is Banquo In Macbeth

Banquo, one of the Kings generals and loyal companion to Macbeth, had one of the most important roles in the play. He was in Macbeth's company when the Three Witches spoke their prophecy regarding on how Macbeth will become the Thane of Glamis, Thane of Cawdor and the King hereafter. When Banquo asked the The Witches what his future will behold, they predicted that Banquo’s children will be the next line of kings in the future to come. Unlike Macbeth, Banquo didn’t trust what the The Witches said since he stated that “The instruments of darkness tell us truths, / Win us with honest trifles, to betray's / In deepest consequence (1.iii-126-129).” He warns Macbeth that evil deities don’t tell the honest truth and can turn a man evil. Macbeth on …show more content…
Banquo plays a key role in the play as a potential conspirator against Macbeth. When Macduff finds King Duncan’s body, Banquo starts to question the loyalty and trustworthiness of his companions. He starts to become more wary and cautious of who he can trust after Lady Macbeth “faints” in front of the castle's occupants when Macbeth is being questioned. He starts to suspect that Macbeth killed the king as King Duncan died in Macbeth’s own castle and Macbeth was suppose to be the new King according to The Witches prophecy. Macbeth knows very well that Banquo isn't stupid and debates whether or not he should kill him as he poses a threat to Macbeth's position of power. Banquo warns the Thanes that Macbeth might be a traitor but, he tries to remain neutral in the situation and convince himself that one of his closest friends could not have committed such a treasonous act. He rationalizes that it's in his best interest not to come after Macbeth for the throne as he fantasizes his own prophecy becoming reality if he doesn't get involved directly. This ends up costing Banquo later in the