Nicolasa Henke: Banquo seems somewhat saddened by what Macbeth has done due to the witches' prophecies, because at this point he's feeling pretty certain that Macbeth has done some horrid things to become king. Yet, he also notes that since the prophecies about Macbeth came true, the prophecies about him having descendant(s) that would take the throne could also be true. At that point in the speech, things feel like an awkward mix of hopeful and unease, but a few words later Banquo dismisses these thinkings with the "But hush, no more."So emotionally, we get: Lines 1-3) Unease/sadness (Macbeth is king, but he played dirty) Lines 3- 9) Thoughtful/Hopeful (But waitaminute, if he DID become king, maybe my descendants will become king(s) too?)Line 10) Nothing (I refuse to think about this anymore)What does this really do though?(1) The whole idea of self-fulfilling prophecy is again brought up. The reader is reminded to ask, did the witches' prophecies come true because they ! were meant to be (fate), or were they fulfilled solely by Macbeth & Lady Macbeth's foul deeds? This is a BIG BIG BIG idea of the play.(2) Contrasts between Macbeth & Banquo. Macbeth hears the prophecy and what does he do? Almost instantly begins to set things in motion to make it happen (with help from his villainous wifey, of course). The idea of being king and having power consumes Macbeth quickly. Banquo, on the other hand, thinks of the prophecy, but immediately dismisses it, instead of choosing to act on it and fulfill it himself like Macbeth did. There's a lot more to this contrast, but maybe I've pointed you in the right direction.(3) Foreshadowing. This one is pretty obvious. Banquo is feeling uncomfortable about Macbeth, etc etc. Take special note of the "But I'll be quiet; no more." Oh how right you were Banquo, you were indeed quiet as well as no more (wordplay on death) once Macbeth had his way.(4) I'd take note of the "Might they not be my prophecies as well, /! And set up my hopes? But Iâll be quiet; no more" part. Thin! k about the wordplay on "set up." Macbeth sure did set up his prophecies to come true. Banquo seems to ask himself, should I? Should I act on this knowledge? This goes back to that BIG idea of prophecy and its role in this work.I hope this helped just a little, maybe got you thinking about the speech in different ways....Show more
Randolph Lozoya: BANQUO [â¦] My noble companion You greet with modern-day grace ... and great prediction Of noble having and of royal desire, That he looks rapt withal. To me you communicate no longer. in case you are able to look into the seeds of time, And say which grain will strengthen and that may not, communicate then to me, whoneither beg nor concern Your favors nor your hate. (a million.3.fifty 4) concept: Banquo is basically as formidable as Macbeth, contained in the experience that he would choose to renowned how he will finally end up. nevertheless he says he neither fears nor pleads, he actually asks. From Shmoop Lit/expenses an! d innovations on Ambition/Macbeth...Show more
Frank Crummell: Macbeth Act 3 Translation
Rocio Karvis: Act 3 Macbeth Quotes