Banquo's Ambition in Shakespeare's Macbeth: A Comprehensive Analysis

William Shakespeare's Macbeth is a rich tapestry of ambition, deceit, and moral fiber. At the heart of this narrative is the character of Banquo, a key figure whose subtle ambitions paint a picture of a complex and morally nuanced individual. In this article, we delve into the various aspects of Banquo's ambition, exploring how it contrasts with that of his dark counterpart, Macbeth.

Receptiveness to Prophecies

When the witches prophesy that Macbeth will become king, Banquo shows a keen interest rather than indifference. This shows that he is aware of his potential for greatness but remains cautious. His curiosity about the future suggests a latent ambition to seek out his own destiny. The witches' prophecy that Banquo's descendants will also become kings further ignites a sense of ambition in him, as he contemplates the future and its significance for his lineage. Despite this, Banquo approaches his ambition with a sense of moral integrity, unlike Macbeth who succumbs to its corrupting influence.

Desire for Legacy

The witches' prophecy about Banquo's descendants being kings is a profound revelation that ignites a strong desire within him. Banquo expresses his wish for his children to inherit greatness, indicating that he is not averse to ambition. However, his ambition is tempered by his values. He is wary of the consequences of pursuing power at any cost, and his aim is for his heirs rather than himself. This noble perspective sets him apart from Macbeth, whose ambition is purely self-serving and leads to corruption.

Moral Compass

Unlike Macbeth, who is driven by an unchecked ambition that leads him to commit regicide and betray his friends, Banquo's ambition is guided by his moral compass. He is cautious and wary of the moral decay that accompanies unchecked ambition. His ambition is a reflection of his desire to see his descendants thrive, indicating a more wholesome and noble perspective on success.

Contrast with Macbeth

Macbeth and Banquo are often contrasted in Macbeth, highlighting the different paths of ambition and its consequences. While Macbeth's ambition leads him to betray his friends and commit regicide, Banquo's ambition remains more restrained. This contrast serves to emphasize the theme of the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of moral integrity.

Skepticism of Macbeth’s Actions

After Macbeth becomes king, Banquo's ambition is evident in his suspicion of Macbeth's rise to power. He recognizes the moral decay that accompanies unchecked ambition and remains cautious. This skepticism highlights Banquo's commitment to his moral values and his understanding of the potential dangers of ambition.

Further Insights into Banquo's Ambition

It is worth noting that the witches’ prophecies also suggest that Lady Macbeth was barren, meaning Macbeth could never produce a direct heir through natural means. This realization becomes a significant factor in Macbeth’s urgent desire to secure the throne for himself, leading to his scapegoating of Lady Macbeth for the lack of an heir. Similarly, Banquo's ambition is primarily focused on ensuring his lineage's future, which is less corrupt and more moral in its pursuit.

In the Orson Welles movie version of the play, a compelling visual element was introduced in the final act. When Macbeth is crowned king, Welles inserted a cutaway to the murdered Banquo’s young son, Fleance, holding a small crown. This scene foretells the prophecy that Banquo’s descendants would become kings. The image serves as a powerful commentary on the enduring legacy and moral integrity that Banquo represents, in contrast to Macbeth's hubris and corruption.

In summary, Banquo's ambition in Macbeth is characterized by a combination of curiosity about his fate, a desire for his legacy, and a moral restraint that ultimately distinguishes him from Macbeth. His character serves to explore the complexities of ambition and its impact on one's integrity and relationships, offering a poignant and nuanced portrayal of a character intent on doing what is right.