Macbeth

We have now seen a little of the politics and power of King Duncan. What do you perceive as the strengths and weaknesses of his kingship?

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The King seems be trustful and rewarding to those that serve him well.    

"Great happiness!....No more that thane of Cawdor shall deceive Our bosom interest: go pronounce his present death, And with his former title greet Macbeth."  

Duncan is so impressed with Macbeth that he gives a new title to Macbeth.          

On the other hand, the King is too trusting and is unable to see treason in men's hearts. After the traitorous Thane of Cawdor is put to death, Duncan remarks that he never saw Cawdor's deceit coming,  

  "He was a gentleman on whom I built. An absolute trust."