The play Macbeth depicts the similarities and differences between the characters Macbeth, Banquo, and Macduff as they play different roles in the tragedy. Both Macbeth and Banquo receive a prophecy about kingship, and this prediction directs the events in the play. On the other hand, Macduff is King Daniel’s trusted servant who unsuccessfully attempts to install his son after the son’s death. Although Macduff and Banquo share the trait of commitment to their masters, Macduff is the hero because he kills the power-hungry Macbeth to avenge the slain King Macbeth while Banquo is the supporting character for his unsuccessful attempts to install Daniel’s son to the throne.
Macduff and Banquo suffer personal losses due to their actions. Macduff’s commitment to the slain king Daniel causes him to flee to England to seek his son to inherit the throne (Act 5, scene 1). However, he is unsuccessful in the mission and suffers the loss of his family when Macbeth murders them. Banquo, on the other hand, remains dedicated to Macbeth when he ascends to the throne despite his suspicions. Banquo pays for allegiance with his life when Macbeth murders him (Act 4, scene 3). Macbeth contrasts the character of Banquo and Macduff as he is selfish and seeks to eliminate anyone who potentially challenges his kingship. Overall, it is apparent that both Macduff and Banquo maintain their devotion to their rulers at all times.
The play Macbeth exemplifies the heroism of Macduff, who successfully avenges King Daniel’s death by killing Macbeth. Although Banquo is loyal to Macduff, he is suspicious and dies at the King’s hands. The play shows the similarity in the characters of Macduff and Banquo in their commitment to their masters. Macduff is the hero of the drama because he eliminates the tyrannical king in a case of poetic justice. Although Macduff and Banquo display commitment to their masters and attempt to defend the throne against Macbeth, Macduff emerges as the hero because of his successful killing of the king to pave way for His master’s son to become the king.
Work Cited
Barton, Roger. Macbeth. Shakespeare Out Loud, n.d.