Shakespearean Tragedies · English Literature

In 'Macbeth,' what are the three prophecies given to Banquo by the Weird Sisters?

  1. He shall be King, he shall be happy, and he shall be beloved by all
  2. Lesser than Macbeth yet greater; not so happy yet much happier; his descendants shall be kings
  3. Beware the Thane of Fife; fear no man born of woman; Birnam Wood will march to Dunsinane
  4. He shall outlive Macbeth, defeat the English, and see his sons crowned as emperors
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Correct answer: Lesser than Macbeth yet greater; not so happy yet much happier; his descendants shall be kings

The witches give Banquo paradoxical prophecies contrasting him with Macbeth. While Macbeth gains the crown, Banquo's line will father kings — a prophecy linking to the historical Stuart dynasty.

Difficulty: Medium Question 5 of 20

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