How Does Shakespeare Use Banqou In Macbeth

In Shakespeare's didactic tragedy, Shakespeare uses Banqou's character to make a clear assertion about the importance of religion, using him as an example of what happens if you stray from god. Throughout the play, Shakespeare uses Banqou's character to deliver a clear message about the importance of resisting the temptations of evil, although it may be a struggle. Shakespeare advocates turning to God for support. The internal battle Banqou experiences emphasises his humanity and allows the audience to connect with him on a deeper level than they can Macbeth. We first see this religious nature of Banqou come to light in Act 1 Scene 3 after meeting the witches. Banqou says, 'If you can look into the seeds of time'. Here, we see him try to use

Although Banqou suffers a moral decline similar to Macbeth, it is neither as severe nor as rapid. Shakespeare's source material for the play was Holinshed's chronicles. A history book in which there is the genuine tale of Macbeth. However, the play of Macbeth differs from this book because, in the book, Banqou is involved in the murderous plot to kill Duncan. Although Banqous's consciousness remains clear after meeting the witches as the play progresses, his temptation grows. Like Macbeth, he says he can no longer sleep soundly and admits to his son Fleance that he is struggling to restrain 'cursed thoughts' and is troubled by the prophecies of the three sisters. However, there are significant differences between Macbeth and Banquo. When Banquo feels his temptation growing, he asks his son Fleance to take his sword. This demonstrates that only Macbeth takes matters into his own hands and embarks on his bloody campaign of violence. Banquo is morally stronger and doesn't succumb to the prophecies. Banqou doesn't have the same humour and ambition as Macbeth. We can assume Shakespeare changed the original tale of Banqou to paint him in a more positive light because it was believed that King James the First (Shakespeare patreon) was a descendant of Banqou. The imperative verb 'take' conveys a sense of urgency and importance. This suggests Banquo has dark thoughts and does not trust himself to act on them. In this way, Shakespeare highlights the difference between the two