Who Banquo is
Banquo is a Scottish general who serves King Duncan and shares Macbeth's encounter with the witches on the heath. When the witches greet Macbeth with promises of new titles, Banquo asks what they have to say about him.
Their answer gives him a different future from the one they promise his friend. They say that he will father kings, although he will never wear the crown himself.
Banquo and the others in the story
Banquo and Macbeth hear the prophecies together, but Banquo distrusts the powers making these promises. When Macbeth receives the title of Thane of Cawdor, Banquo warns him against trusting a prediction simply because part proves true.
His warning offers a contrast to Macbeth's growing attention to the promised crown. Banquo's courage and wisdom later trouble Macbeth, who begins to see his friend as a threat rather than a companion.
Questions
Who is Banquo in Macbeth?
Banquo is a general in Duncan's service and a friend of Macbeth. He is with Macbeth when the witches first reveal their prophecies.
What do the witches predict for Banquo?
They predict that Banquo will be the father of kings, but not a king himself.
Does Banquo trust the witches?
No, Banquo questions their motives. He cautions Macbeth that a truthful promise can be used to draw someone into harm.