Banquo facts for kids
Banquo is an important character in William Shakespeare's famous play Macbeth, written in 1606. He starts as a close friend and fellow general to the play's main character, Macbeth. Banquo holds the title of thane of Lochaber, which means he is a Scottish nobleman, similar to a lord.
Banquo's story is key to the play because of a prophecy he receives. Three mysterious witches tell both Macbeth and Banquo about their future. While Macbeth is told he will become king, Banquo is told that his children, not he himself, will eventually rule Scotland. This prophecy makes Macbeth feel threatened, especially after he becomes king. He fears that Banquo's son, Fleance, will take the throne from his own family, just as the witches predicted.
Because of this fear, Macbeth hires people to kill Banquo and Fleance. The attack happens, and Banquo is killed. However, his son Fleance manages to escape, which leaves the witches' prophecy about Banquo's descendants still possible. Banquo's death and Fleance's escape are turning points in the play, leading to more conflict and showing Macbeth's growing guilt and paranoia. Later in the play, Banquo's ghost appears to Macbeth, showing how much guilt Macbeth feels for his terrible actions.
Images for kids
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Macbeth and Banquo with the Witches by Henry Fuseli
See also
In Spanish: Banquo para niños
