Macbeth And Banquo's Relationship

In Shakespeare's play "Macbeth" the relationship between Macbeth and Banquo is initially one of friendship, loyalty and mutual respect. Both are noblemen and generals in the army of King Duncan and are introduced as valiant warriors. King Duncan refers to Banquo as “no less deserved” (1.4.30) than Macbeth. But it is Macbeth, who receives the title “Thane of Cawdor” and therefore overshadows Banquo with his accomplishments and ambitions.

Banquo and Macbeth’s relationship is challenged when they meet the three witches. Macbeth is promised that he will be king and Banquo receives the prophecy that his descendants will be kings. The reactions from Macbeth and Banquo to the prophecies differ. Banquo’s observation “why do you start and seem to fear / Things that do sound so fair?” (1.3.49-50) shows that Macbeth is startled and fearful by the prophecy. Macbeth links the prophecy of becoming king to the possible act of killing the current king Duncan, thus revealing his conflicted mind. Macbeth demands more detailed information from the witches (s. 1.3.76),

He lies to Banquo, that he hasn’t thought about the witches’ prophecies (s. 2.1.22). Nevertheless, Macbeth tells Banquo “If you shall cleave to my consent, when ‘tis, / It shall make honour for you.” (2.1.25-26) illustrating the possibility of seeing Banquo as an ally and not as a threat in his own ambition. Banquo’s response “So I lose none In seeking to augment it, but still keep / My bosom franchised and allegiance clear, / I shall be counselled.” (2.1.27-29) demonstrates his strategic side. He is willing to be advised by Macbeth if that means that he could retain his privileges. His loyalty isn’t fixed on Duncan, but rather he has his own profit in mind. The carefully chosen terms “augment” and “allegiance” reflect the strategic aspect of that response and indicate that Banquo isn’t expressing his real opinion