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Banquo has demonstrated the most "king-becoming graces" thus far because of his "stableness" and ability to think in times of adversity, and his "devotion" to the crown of Scotland (4.3.110;108). After Duncan's death, when the Scotland is in overwhelming sorrow and shock over the loss of their beloved king, Banquo is able to rationalize the motives for killing Duncan, and therefore come to the conclusion that Macbeth is the culprit. Banquo says that Macbeth now has "all as the Weïrd sisters promised, and [he] fear[s] that [Macbeth] played'st most foully for 't" (3.1.2-3). This realization displays Banquo's ability to reason the causes of an event and remain stable even in times of tragedy, a king-becoming grace. As well, Banquo demonstrates that he is loyal to the crown during the civil war and shortly thereafter when meeting Duncan. While fighting alongside Macbeth, he was "noble" and fought hard for his country (1.4.33). While Macbeth received the title of Thane of Cawdor, Duncan awarded Banquo with "enfold[ing] [him] and hold[ing] [him] to [Duncan's] heart" (1.4.35-36). Banquo is perfectly content with only receiving an embrace for his efforts, despite the fact he "hast no less deserved nor must be known no less to have done so" like Macbeth and fought hard for Scotland (1.4.34-35). Banquo is willing to graciously accept so little compared to the honorable title that Macbeth is given, revealing that his true desire is to ensure the safety of the king and Scotland, a sign of pure devotion.
Banquo's loyalty to his country, his people, and his friends further support the previously mentioned demonstrations of his "king-becoming graces". When his friend Macbeth is afraid and unsure how to react to the three witches, Banquo defends him and has his back by asking the witches to "Speak, then, to me, who neither beg nor fear your favors nor hate." (I.iii.63-64) He also supports his country above all else by telling Duncan that "If I grow, the harvest is your own." (I.iv.37-38) His graciousness and absolute dedication to his country without seeking great consequences shows the humility and nobility of a king. Even more importantly, he didn't let his loyalty fog his logic. Even though he and Macbeth were friends, that did not prevent him from looking at Duncan's murder objectively and accurately pinning the blame on him. Banquo had the perfect blend of humility, wisdom, and loyalty to make him perfectly fit to rule.
Malcom has demonstrated the most "king-becoming graces" up until this point because of his ability to make rational and justifiable decisions in times of quandary. When his father Duncan is murdered, Malcolm goes "to England", not because he doesn't want to have to deal with the consequences of his fathers death, but because he is intelligent and realizes this is the "safest way" (2.3. 162), (2.3.168). Also, when Macduff first arrives in England, Malcolm says that he views Macbeth as a "bloody, luxurious, avaricious, false, deceitful, sudden, malicious" man (4.3. 70-72). The fact that Malcolm is able to see past Macbeths façade when nobody else did, shows that he has an innate ability to read the good and bad in people: which is a vital trait for a good leader.
Despite this argument supporting itself well, it has a serious flaw. Malcolm himself said, "I have none," (IV.iii.107). This quote shows that Malcolm strongly doubts himself, and that is something that a leader should never have at least in the way Malcolm does. If a leader doubts himself, then all of his followers will probably adopt the same perspective, which will lead to his downfall. His father, Duncan, on the other hand, is the character with the most "king-becoming graces." He is loved by all the people and has genuine and peaceful relations with his immediate neighbors (Ireland and England). He is decisive in war (with Norway), and a generous and just king (rewarding Macbeth and Banquo and executing Macdonwald and the Thane of Cawdor). Macbeth himself realizes and acknowledges that Duncan is a good king, and that is why he shouldn't kill him.
While that is an interesting point, I think your interpretation of that line is incorrect. Part of why Malcolm has demonstrated the most "king-becoming graces" is also because he does not crave power, which makes him an ideal person to rule because of his humility. When Malcolm said "I have none" (IV.iii.107), he is not showing doubt in himself, he is showing his humility. After seeing what happened when his father became too cocky and confident in his position as king and let his guard down, Malcolm does not let himself think he is the lone candidate for the throne — there are others, like Macbeth, trying to usurp his power. Furthermore, this quote shows that Malcolm does not particularly want to be king, which is actually a good quality for a ruler to have, since it will make them less likely to rule tyrannically for personal gain and overstep their power. By channeling the Roman general Cincinnatus, Malcolm is demonstrating that he has a very rare, but very noble, quality that would, in fact, make him a great ruler.
Ali's gives some good evidence of Malcoms intellectual side being a reason of why he has demonstrated "King-becoming graces", but she fails to recognize some additional points as to why Malcom is an intellectual (4.1.197). It is true that Malcom is capable to look through Macbeth mask of innocence, but he also displays his intelligence by his way of testing Macduff to see if he is loyal. It was smart of Malcom to test Macduff because Macduff had recently been in Macbeth's side. This cautiousness is important for a King to have.the way that Malcom tests .Malcome is also smart because it is not evident to Macduff that he is taking a test. By giving a multitude reasons why Malcom is a horrible leader, Depending on how Macduff replies, Malcom will know if Macduff will be genuine at say that Malcom is not fit to rule, or if he will be false and butter-up Malcome.
Ali makes a good point in stating that Malcolm obtains the most “king-becoming graces,” up to this point, because of his ability to make rational decisions (4.3.107). Ali is correct in saying that Malcolm flees “to England” because he recognizes the future implications that may lead to his demise, coming from being his murdered father’s heir (2.3.162). Although, Ali leaves out a vital choice that Malcolm executes that makes him very king-like character. The strategic move to test Macduff’s loyalty to Scotland by seeing if he will react to him saying that he has “none [of the] king-becoming graces” with solicitude for him or Scotland (4.3.107). In testing Macduff’s loyalty, Malcolm demonstrates his valor in the face of adversity, and in this case, a potentially dangerous traitor sent to turn him into the “malicious” Macbeth (4.3.72). He also displays the desire to seek “verity” in a world of opacity where “fair is foul, and foul is fair,” and in doing so, he embodies a true king (4.3.8, 1.1.12).
Contrary to the ideas presented in Ali's argument and of those who responded to her, Banquo, although dead, is the character who has thus far most embodied "king-becoming graces"(IV.iii.107). Banquo's "lowliness(humility)" to Duncan, "devotion" to Scotland, and "justice" towards Macbeth even though they were close with one another exemplifies why Banquo would be the best fit to be king. When Duncan greeted Macbeth and Banquo when they came back from battle, Duncan told Macbeth and Banquo, respectively, "I have begun to plant thee and will labor thee full of growing. –Noble Banquo, that hast no less deserved nor must be known no less to have done so"(I.iv.32-35). Duncan is directly telling them that although they both equally deserve praise and reward for their heroism, only Macbeth will be given the reward of receiving the title as Thane of Cawdor. Banquo understands his position in this situation, but is not jealous of Macbeth our outraged at Duncan, but rather replies, "There, if I grow, the harvest is your own"(I.iv.37-38). Banquo's response to Duncan expressed his humility and devotion by accepting what has, or has not, been given to him and showing his ultimate loyalty to the king, and therefore, to Scotland. Also, once Macbeth's prophecy had been (forcefully) fulfilled, Banquo has the courage to doubt Macbeth, and say, "Thou hast it now–King, Cawdor, Glamis…and I fear thou played'st most foully for 't"(III.i.1-3). Banquo's actions prove his courage and his ability to place justice where it is fair, even though it means that he has to doubt a partner with whom he fought off an invasion with. Unlike Duncan, Banquo is able to call out people's faults, even in those he may trust the most, a quality that is fit for a king. Overall, Banquo, even after his death, remains to be the character who has truly most embodied "king-becoming graces"(IV.iii.107).
So far, Banquo has most embodied the "king-becoming graces" of a leader due to his rationality and his upstanding morality in comparison to Macbeth's violent ambition. When the Weird Sisters tell their prophesy to Macbeth and Banquo, Banquo is skeptical of the supernatural ways of the Sisters, and says, "Were such things here as we do speak about? Or have we eaten on the insane root that takes the reason prisoner?" (1.3. 86-88). This type of reason and stability make for a successful leader, not the overpowering desire for status and greatness that Macbeth clearly possesses. After the murder of Duncan, Banquo uses his reasoning to and wit to suspect Macbeth to be the killer, acknowledging that he "hast it now—King, Cawdor, Glamis, all as the Weird Women promised, and I fear thou played'st most foully for 't." (3.1.1-3). Macbeth himself realizes that Banquo has caught on to his scheme, and says, "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." (3.1.57-60) Macbeth saw Banquo as his only true threat to the throne, due to his cleverness and morality that has proved to be so much greater than Macbeth's. Banquo has been the character to fully embody the "king-becoming graces", and Macbeth's insane jealousy of his devotion to his state became a factor in the killing of his best friend. Banquo humbly accepted all that was bestowed upon him, and though he never opposed Macbeth and his rule, he ultimately became the one to pay the consequences for Macbeth's corrupt rise to power.
Banquo, although dead, embodies the most "king-becoming graces," because he shows stability, patience, devotion to Duncan and his son, and "lowliness," or humility (4.3.107, 4.3.109). Banquo demonstrates his stability when he encounters the three Weïrd Sisters: he says he "neither beg[s] nor fear[s] [their] favors nor [their] hate," which suggests that unlike Macbeth—who says to the witches "even till destruction sicken, answer me to what I ask you,"—Banquo does not become vulnerable to the Weïrd Sisters' manipulation (1.3.63, 64, 4.1.63, 64). He also shows patience and stability simultaneously by being cautious with the prophesy rather than being ambitious to make his son king: when Macbeth says "do you not hope your children shall be kings…?" Banquo responds with "the instruments of darkness tell us truths… to betray 's in deepest consequence," (1.3.128, 129, 136-138). Banquo demonstrates devotion to Duncan when he says "but still keep my… allegiance clear, I shall be counseled," meaning that he would only follow Macbeth's "counsel" if he did not have to compromise his "allegiance" to Duncan (2.1.38, 39). He also shows devotion to Fleance as well as courage by having the "natural touch"—the natural instinct to protect him (4.2.11). He lets Fleance hold [his] sword" for comfort, but when Macbeth comes (and he doesn't know who he is at first) he says "give me my sword" so that he can protect Fleance if need be (2.1.5, 12). Banquo demonstrates humility as well, for example when Macbeth talks with the king's pronouns—"our" and "we"—Banquo, instead of correcting him or complaining to him, talks only with respect, saying "at your kind'st leisure" and calling him "sir," (2.1.22, 29, 33, 41).
I think Christian has presented a pretty airtight argument, painting a very accurate picture of the many “king-becoming graces” that Banquo possesses (4.3.107). I entirely agree with the argument presented, and yet there do appear to be additional kingly attributes that characterize Banquo throughout the text other than those mentioned in the paragraph. In addition to the characteristics described in Christian’s argument, Banquo demonstrates “temp’rance,” as well as “justice” (4.3.108). Banquo’s temperance, or self-restraint, is primarily demonstrated through the stark contrast between the way in which Banquo responds to the Witches’ prophecies and the way in which Macbeth does. While Macbeth immediately internalizes and acts upon these prophecies regarding his future power, Banquo musters his strength to restrain himself from thinking about, much less acting on, the mysterious and uncertain predictions posed to him by the sinister Weïrd Sisters. The moment that he begins to ponder his future lineage, instead of indulging the excitement of the prophecy, Banquo implores the “merciful powers [to] restrain in [him] the cursèd thoughts that nature gives way to repose” (2.1.9-11). Instead of converting his thoughts into actions, Banquo successfully suppresses these notions. Additionally, Banquo proves that he has the desire to seek justice, yet another of the king-becoming graces. Malcolm is not the only character to immediately desire knowledge and justice regarding the identity of Duncan’s murderer. After some of the initial shock had abated, Banquo suggests that “[they] have [their] naked frailties hid,” they should “meet and question th[e] most bloody piece of work [that was Duncan’s murder] to know it further” (2.3.150-1). In this quest for the truth behind the murder, Banquo illustrates that he places the quality of justice in high esteem. Thus, in addition, to stability, patience, devotion and lowliness, Banquo also enacts the qualities of temperance and justice, therefore rendering him (or his memory) the figure most deserving of the crown.
Banquo has proven to be the character that most embodies "King-becoming graces" through his stability when making decisions, his lowliness, his devotion to doing whatever is best for the goodwill of Scotland, and the courage that he possesses in battle. Banquo shows his stability when making decisions when after the Weïrd sisters prophecy he says "the earth hath bubbles, as the water has, and these are of them" (1.3 82-83). He really is just mocking what the witches have said instead of holding on to every world like Macbeth. Banquo is able to take a step back from the situation and realize that they really are just three "withered" (1.3 41) women who do not hold the supernatural powers that Macbeth immediately believes they possess. Banquo shows his lowliness when after coming back from battle with Macbeth he is okay with the fact that Macbeth receives a much larger reward, he becomes the new Thane of Cawdor when Banquo only receives a hug even though "no less deserved nor must be known no less to have done so" (1.4 34-35). Banquo shows how humble he is in this situation because even though it is obvious that Macbeth is receiving more of the special treatment, he is able to let go of his ego and let his friend have a shining moment. Banquo shows his courage and devotion to Scotland in his fighting for his country which is extremely dangerous. Banquo is also a very successful warrior in battle so not only is he fighting but he is fighting with everything that he has and that is what makes him such a vicious warrior.
Although Banquo exhibits some kingly characteristics, Malcolm's actions better demonstrate his own "king-becoming graces" (4.3.107). Atea states that Banquo's stability is demonstrated by his being "able to take a step back from the situation" by realizing that the witches do not actually posses supernatural powers, but in fact, they do possess these characteristics, and his "step back" actually removes him from seeing the reality. Malcolm, however, is able to see situations more clearly and believes that "to show an unfelt sorrow is an office which the false man does easy" (2.3.161). Malcolm's ability to truly understand a circumstance illustrates his stability, which shows his suitability to become a king. In addition, Malcolm's actions clearly show his strong belief in justice. While many other people are overwhelmed by Duncan's murder, Malcolm asks "O' by whom?" raising the most critical point (2.3.118). Malcolm's ability to ask the most important question to bring justice also demonstrates his kingly characteristics. Lastly, Malcolm has a deeper understanding of an action's priority. Although Banquo shows his devotion to the Scotland, he is supported by fellow peers, whereas Malcolm's mission to leave for England shows more devotion because he is not dissuaded to stop because of peer criticism. Malcolm instructs his brother, Donalbain, to go "therefore to horse, and let [them] not be dainty of leave-taking but shift away" (2.3.169). Malcolm comprehends what is of highest priority and his ability to persevere despite being accused of suspicious activity clearly demonstrates his devotion to Scotland's wellbeing. Malcolm's ability to remain stable, seek justice, and evaluate priorities illustrate his suitability to becoming king.
Although Atea is correct about Banquo embodying the qualities of a king, she fails to show the actual traits that make Banquo a perfect candidate, such as his temperance, stableness, and loyalty. Banquo is skeptical about the witches prophecy, causing him to say: "Were such things here as we do speak about? Or have we eaten on the insane root that takes the reason prisoner?" which reveals his ability to restrain himself from the witches prophecy by questioning it (1.3.86-8). Banquo's rationality helps him avoid the witches by not falling for their trick. As Banquo receives a hug from Duncan for his devotion, Banquo says that if he grows in Duncan's heart, his "harvest is [Duncans] own" demonstrating that he is reliable because he is willing to produce for Duncan (I.iv.38). Macbeth tries to get Banquo to side with him, but Banquo needs his "bosom franchised and allegiance cleared" revealing the importance of his loyalty (II.i.38). Banquo is not willing to dispose of his loyalty showing his high regard to the person or people that he devotes his loyalty too.
In agreement with Atea, there is more evidence to support her argument that better display Banquo as a suitable king. To add on to her evidence, Banquo displays that he is honest and has complete comprehension of his priorities by declining to support Macbeth in murdering Duncan. In response to Macbeth asking Banquo if he shall “cleave to [his] consent”, Banquo responds that he will as long as he may still keep his “bosom franchised” and his “allegiance clear”, even when Macbeth prompted that he shall “make honor for [Banquo}” (II.i.34, II.i.38, II.i.35). The fact that Banquo knows where his loyalties lie show that he is collected and composed of the “King-becoming graces”. Banquo also shows that he would be a satisfactory leader by being stable and composed after the death of Duncan by suggesting that the members of the house “meet” and “question this most bloody piece of work” so as to find out who killed Duncan and reinstate stability within the royal family (II.iii.149-50).
So far in the play, Malcolm has most embodied the "king-becoming graces" because of his good strategy and foresight. Malcolm's first impulse following the death of his father is to go "to England" to insure his safety (2.3. 162). Malcolm exhibits good instincts and other necessary leadership qualities in his ability to see the danger in staying and taking advantage of his opportunity to flee. Malcolm also displays a very strategic side when tricking Macduff into believing that he has "none (of the) king-becoming graces" to insure his loyalty to Scotland and not to Macbeth (4.3.107). Malcolm proves himself to be the best fit King through his "stableness…courage" and "devotion". (4.3.109-110).
Grace is right in that is some cases Malcolm has shown excellent strategy, however I disagree that he has shown that good of foresight. There is evidence of him lacking foresight when he decides to flee to "to England" after his father is murdered (II.iii.162). In doing this it makes him and his brother, Donalbain, "suspicious of the deed" (II.iv.38). Malcom's ignorance of this being a possibility if they left shows that he lacks the foresight of a good leader. Also it shows that he is not a thorough planner in preparing his leave. Although he is rushed to leave, he doesn't give the Scotland a legitimate reason for his absence. This lack of thorough planning is also a sign he isn't a good leader.
Grace provides a valid point when saying that Malcolm has most embodied the “king-becoming graces” because of his good strategy but there is a different interpretation than Malcolm was “tricking” macduff. Instead of tricking Macbeth Malcolm is testing Macbeth to see if he is not there on behalf of Macbeth. By saying “but i have none” Malcolm wishes to test to see if Macduff is true to scotland. He doesn’t open up to Macduff until Macduff cries, “O scotland, scotland!” (IV:iii:107)(IV:iii:117). The fact that Malcolm has the intelligence to speculate Macduff’s intentions shows that he is indeed the best fit leader. Also, Malcolm says that his “poor country’s to command” and that he is willing to use the true leaderships skills he has to save Scotland (IV:iii:151).
While I agree with Grace in that Malcolm thus far has displayed the most "King-becoming graces," however I believe that the main key traits possessed by Malcolm were his patience and stableness, rather than his strategy and foresight (IV.iii.107). After receiving the news of the death of his father, King Duncan, Malcolm was able to remain stable-minded and not react dramatically "'Your royal father's murdered.' 'O, by whom?'" (II.iii.117). Malcolm also displays patience by leaving "to England," choosing to wait patiently, while Scotland enters a period of chaos and political downfall, for his calling back to the scene of leadership in Scotland.
Even though he is dead, Banquo has shown the most "king-becoming graces" up until this point in the play. In Act I, Banquo and Macbeth both receives thanks from Duncan for protecting his kingdom. While Macbeth receives a new slice of power, Banquo is content with nothing but a hug from the king that he "hast no less deserved" (I.iv.34). This shows true loyalty to the king that he does not require pay or rewards to serve Scotland. Another reason as to why Banquo is the most kingly figure so far is his ability to think logically. Upon meeting the three witches, he does not dig deeper for answers like Macbeth but instead says "What are these" as any king should say to show that he thinks before he acts (I.iii.40). He wonders if Macbeth tasted the "insane root that takes the reason prisoner" and so this shows excellent approach to puzzling situation where he first needs to come up with some answers and facts before coming out with a final conclusion (I.iii.87). Also, in times of trouble, Banquo has proven to be very calm and composed; an excellent trait for a king. Upon hearing the news of the King's death, Banquo puts the pieces together and realizes that as "the Weïrd Women promised, [Macbeth] played'st most foully for 't" (III.i.2)
As Adam said, Banquo is the character in the play that most embodies the "king-becoming graces" so far in the play. As Macbeth asks to side with him Banquo responds that he needs his, "bosom franchised and allegiance cleared" and remains faithful to King Duncan (2.1.380). He is consistent in his loyalties and puts his commitment in his job. Even as he is murdered, he remains aware and says "good Fleance, fly, fly, fly!" (3.3.25). Banquo knows that he "should be the root and father of many kings" and that he must save his son in order to inherit the throne (3.1.5). Macbeth even recognizes Banquo's leadership qualities, and he hath a wisdom that doth guide his valor to act in safety" (3.1.570. While Banquo is now dead, he had the most "king-becoming graces".
Both Adam and Kentaro develop strong arguments exemplifying Malcolm’s excellent strategy tactics. However, one character who also shows “king becoming graces” who has not been mentioned yet is Macduff. Macduff shows the traits and “graces” becoming of a king in his plan to go visit Malcolm and enlist him to overthrow Macbeth and reinstate Malcolm as king. This action shows unselfishness, shown by the fact that he could have wanted to become king himself, but instead he enlisted Malcolm to overtake the kingdom because he knew that having Duncan’s son would be the best thing for the kingdom. Also, the fact that he left his family vulnerable and unprotected to help his country shows a deep devotion and dedication to the people, one that no other characters in the play have shown thus far. That dedication to his people is a trait very becoming of a king. When he left, his wife called him a “traitor” and one that “swears and lies”. (4.2.53-54). However, later, when asked where her husband is, she does not insult him or scoff at the fact that he is not here to protect her and her children, but instead, Lady Macduff protects her husband saying “I hope [he] [is in] no place unsanctified where such as thou mayst find him.” (4.3.90-91). In Shakespeare’s view, the Macduffs have a healthy relationship, as the husband does not tell his wife too much information, and the wife defends and protects the husband in whatever way possible. This is a “king becoming grace” because the relationship between kings and their wives is extremely important in this play. In the case of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, Macbeth told his wife too much information, which eventually caused trouble for him, in that she “pricked the sides of [his] intent.” (1.7.26). Macbeth is a poor example of a king in Shakespeare’s eyes and partially because of his relationship with his wife. One way Macduff shows “king becoming graces” is through his healthy, trustworthy relationship with his wife. Macduff is the character who holds the most “king becoming graces” shown by his deep devotion and dedication to his people, and his healthy relationship with his wife.
Banquo has embodied the most of the king-becoming graces which Malcolm specifies: "The king-becoming graces, As justice, verity, temp'rance, stableness, Bounty, perseverance, mercy, lowliness, Devotion, patience, courage, [and] fortitude" (4.3 lines 107-110). Banquo is able to keep a realistic view of situations. Instead of immediate acceptance of the prophesy, he is skeptical by asking, “[Are] such things here as we do speak about? Or have we eaten on the insane root That takes the reason prisoner?” (1.3 lines 86-88). He measured the practicality, or “verity”, of the situation instead of just accepting the prophesy. He refrains from only believing the prophesy because is benefits his lineage, displaying “lowliness” and “patience”. In addition, Banquo says, “let us meet And question this most bloody piece of work to know it further. Fears and scruples shake us. In the great hand of God I stand, and thence against the undivulged pretense I fight Of treacherous malice” (2.3 lines 150-154). Banquo uses his rational thinking during chaos to establish a common goal. He uses his qualities of leadership to gain control, determination (“perseverance”) to establish the actions that need to take place, stability, courage to “stand” against the “treacherous malice”, justice to fight malice, and devotion to Duncan.
Banquo embodies Malcolm's description of "king-becoming graces" most fully out of the characters. When the witches tell Macbeth the prophecy, he becomes overwhelmed and is unable to speak, but Banquo comes in and saves the day, saying "speak, then, to me, who neither beg nor fear your favors nor your hate" (I.iii.63-64). In a moment where Macbeth is taken aback by the Weïrd Sisters, Banquo shows "stableness" and "patience" by staying level-headed (IV.iii.108, 110). Additionally, it takes a certain amount of "courage" to stand up to a group of unidentified, chanting people who "look not like th' inhabitants o' th' Earth and yet are on 't" (IV.iii. 110, I.iii.42-43). He exemplifies "mercy" and "devotion" to Macbeth by protecting him in this manner (IV.iii.109, 110). Further demonstrating his devotion to Macbeth, and also "lowliness," one of characteristics Malcolm defined, when Macbeth says that Banquo's children will be heirs to the throne, Banquo focuses back on the fact that Macbeth "shall be king" (IV.iii.109, I.iii.90). Banquo continues to exhibit his stableness, as well as showing "verity," when he says, "the instruments of darkness tell us truths…to betray [us] in deepest consequence" (I.iii.136-138). He essentially is predicting that the seemingly wonderful prophecy that the witches have given Macbeth and Banquo is going to lead to bad things, which it does in the sense that Macbeth kills multiple people, including Banquo. Banquo demonstrates "stableness," "patience," "mercy," "devotion," "lowliness," and "verity," all qualities that Malcolm said were essential for someone to be fit to be king.
Banquo has most embodied the "king-becoming graces" through his ability to be content with stability, and his "fortitude" while watching his old friend become overwhelmed by ambition (4.3.107, 110). From his first encounter with the Wëird Sisters, Banquo was quick to dismiss their prophesy. He notices how Macbeth was "rapt withal," and responds by saying "to me you speak not" (1.3.60). Macbeth was intrigued by his potential to have power, while Banquo responded in a joking tone. He is content with his way of life, but Macbeth always craved more. Later on after Duncan's death, Banquo finds himself questioning the murder. He may have suspected the murderer to be Macbeth due to his suspicious responses and desire to be king, but Banquo goes on to say "let us meet and question this most bloody piece of work to know it further" (2.3.49-51). Banquo's fortitude during this time of betrayal proves he would make a great king. He is direct in saying he does not support the murderer. Banquo's intelligence is shown when he does not reveal his whereabouts to Macbeth by saying "as far, my lord, as will fill up the time" (3.1.27). He senses his friend has lost his morality, and knows he must be careful. Banquo has shown he embodies the "king-becoming graces" the most so far because of his many traits that would make him a great leader (4.3.107).
Jasmine's clear argument is one that would be tough to disagree with. She tells the reader that Banquo was quick to dismiss the prophesy of the Wëird sisters, yet it is also important to note that he realizes Macbeth is afraid or intimidated by these witches and covers for him by saying "Speak, then, to me, who neither beg nor fear Your favors nor your hate" (1.3.63). This characteristic is not only one of a good friend, but also that of a clever king. Also, as Jasmine mentions, Banquo demonstrates his ability to be content with stability. Whereas Macbeth is always seeking the reward or what he will obtain from a circumstance, Banquo appears to be content with himself and selfless in the way that he wants what is truly best for his country. Banquo died a man filled with "fortitude" (4.3.110)
Jasmine has a strong argument that Banquo has most embodied "king-becoming graces" by being content with stability and having "fortitude" while Macbeth became overwhelmed by ambition. Moreover, Banquo shows that he is content with stability while talking to the witches when he says "speak then, to me, who neither beg nor fear your favors" (1:3:63). Macbeth shows that he is content with his life by not begging to be in the favor of the witches so that they could foretell a favorable prophecy. But unlike Banquo, Macbeth demands the witches to tell him more about his prophecy to become king when he says, "stay, you imperfect speakers" and "speak, I charge you" (II, III, 73) (II, III, 80). Since Macbeth demands to know more about the witches' prophecy about him becoming King while Banquo remains reserved, Banquo displays "king-becoming graces" by not letting the witches make him "rapt withal" and being content with his status in his society (IV, III, 107), (I, III, 60). Banquo also shows fortitude after he suspects that his friend Macbeth killed Duncan when he says, "by the verities on thee made good, may they not be my oracles as well, and set me up in hope?" (III, I, 8). Banquo is hopeful that the his prophecy will become true since Macbeth's prophecy did. Since Banquo remains hopeful instead of upset and angry since he suspects that his friend, Macbeth, killed Duncan and became King, he shows that he has fortitude during this time of adversity.
Malcolm has embodied the "king-becoming graces" by exhibiting smart decisions and instincts after such events like his father passing (4.3.107) Right after finding bloodied Duncan, Malcolm decides to flee straight "to England," to escape the thought and presence of danger for himself and the rest of his family (2.3.162). By fleeing immediately, Malcolm is able to show that he can foresee the threat of his life, so he makes a good decision to leave without notice. Malcolm can see that it is the "safest way" to keep out of the unrevealed murderer's path (2.3.168). He is able to make decisions for himself unlike his father who holds much higher levels of trust amongst people he doesn't know too well. He is quickly able to see who will be a friend and who will be an enemy, unlike the traits of his father. He is devote to the people, but places his safety first by fleeing and leaving Scotland in the hands of Macbeth.
Ellery highlights Malcolm’s rational decisions in fleeing Scotland and his cautionary test of Macduff’s loyalty. Also, though, Malcolm embodies other “king becoming graces” such as, determination, fairness, patience, and devotion to his country. Malcolm, by stating, “What I believe, I’ll wail; what know, believe; and what I can redress”, demonstrates his determination and genuine personality, which are key characteristics of a leader (145, 139). Malcolm also tests Macduff “If such a one be fit to govern, speak. I am as I have spoken,” and by doing so he illustrates caution and patience. After Macduff passed Malcolm’s test, Malcolm apologized for lying defended his reasoning, “modest wisdom plucks me from overcredulous haste,” and said, “my delight no less in truth than life,” and in doing so he displayed his patience and love of truth, both of which are attributes of rulers (147). Finally Malcolm exemplifies loyalty to Scotland, “What I am truly, is thine and my poor country’s to command,” (147). Malcolm’s perpetual loyalty to his country, and his humble servitude towards it makes him an eligible ruler who embodies “king becoming graces," (145) .
Contrary to Ellery, Banquo embodies the “king-becoming graces” because of his “patience” and his “temperance” (IV.iii.110.108). When hearing the witches’ prophecy of his decedents receiving the kingship, Banquo did not embody the quality of being “sudden” like Macbeth was in forcing the prophecy to become true (IV.iii.72). Banquo shows temperance when talking to Macbeth even though Banquo knows Macbeth “played most foully” to get the kingship (III.i.3). Banquo greets Macbeth by saying “let your highness command upon me” which shows that Banquo is holding back his thoughts on Macbeth killing Duncan. Banquo would be best fit to be the king because of his ability to have patience and self-restrain.
While Ellery is correct that Malcolm is able to embody “king-becoming graces” because of his foresight, she forgets to mention that in addition to this applicative trait, Malcolm is a cunning strategist. (4.3.107) Rather than welcome Macduff into his arms as an ally, he first tests the thane. He claims to have various flaws that would inhibit his ability to be a successful king. However, Macduff never stops that Malcolm will be a successful king, saying “for goodness dare not check thee. Wear thou thy wrongs.” (IV.iii.40-41) Through this method, Malcolm is able to confirm that the man who is willing to follow him into battle and will not desert him.
While Ellery argues that Malcolm best embodies the “king becoming graces” due to his “smart decisions” to put “his safety first” because of his “foresight”, I believe it is actually Banquo who is the best embodiment of the explicitly mentioned qualities of “justice, verity, temp’rance, stableness, mercy, lowliness, devotion, courage, and fortitude” (4.3.107; Ellery; 4.7.106-109). Malcolm’s leaving, as Ellery says, is the “safest”, but runs contrary to the trait of “courage, justice, and fortitude” that are some “king becoming graces” (Ellery – 2.3.168, 4.3.107). His leaving shows that Malcolm lacks the courage to stay in Scotland, the absence of thought to seek “justice” for his father’s murder, and his self protection shows that Malcolm lacks “fortitude”, defined as bravery in the face of adversity, in this case, the “unknown murderer” ( 4.7.106, Ellery – 2.3.168). Therefore, I would argue that it is Banquo who best exemplifies the “king becoming traits” of “stability, patience, lowliness, devotion, and verity.” From the very start, Banquo demonstrates stableness in the face of the witches, as he immediately does not become “rapt withal” like Macbeth; instead, he is in charge, saying “speak to me instead” (1.3.63). Banquo also demonstrates his “devotion” to the crown, and his “loyalty and lowliness” through his reluctance to accept the witches prophecy that would make Banquo’s heirs king. While Macbeth is ambitious and hopes for the prophecy’s fulfillment, Banquo replies with the suspicious view “that tis strange [in reference to the witches’ prophecies]” as he is horrified that it implies the king’s eminent death, in order to fulfill the prophecy. His “lowliness” and humility is shown when Banquo does not take credit for his bravery. When Duncan praises Banquo for his part in the war, Banquo instead returns the praise with the words “there, if I grow, the harvest is your own”. Therefore, Banquo is truly the character that exemplifies the named “graces” that are fitting for a king.