Macbeth has every reason to fear Banquo because Banquo represents an end to Macbeth's rise to power. First of all, Banquo was with Macbeth when the witches delivered their prophecies. In fact, the witches reveal that Banquo's sons will be kings. Even though Macbeth is prophesied to be king himself, his children will not follow him in the reign; Banquo's will.
The problem is that while the witches give prophecy, they do not reveal...
Macbeth has every reason to fear Banquo because Banquo represents an end to Macbeth's rise to power. First of all, Banquo was with Macbeth when the witches delivered their prophecies. In fact, the witches reveal that Banquo's sons will be kings. Even though Macbeth is prophesied to be king himself, his children will not follow him in the reign; Banquo's will.
The problem is that while the witches give prophecy, they do not reveal how the prophecies will come to be real. Readers can infer that had Macbeth simply waited, he would have become king eventually. However, his ambition would not allow for a wait, and Macbeth surges forth and kills Duncan.
Banquo knows that Duncan's death was suspicious. He notes "Thou hast it now, King, Cawdor, Glamis, all, / As the weird women promised, and I fear, / Thou play'dst most foully for it: ..." (III,i). Macbeth clues into Banquo's changed demeanor and realizes "... For Banquo's issue have I filed my mind; / For them the gracious Duncan have I murder'd; ..." (III, i).
Macbeth feels he has no choice but to murder his friend in order to keep his throne.
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