In William Shakespeare's Macbeth, the character referred to as "sickly in his life" and whose existence prevents others from truly experiencing "health" is Banquo.
Understanding the "Sickly Life"
This profound phrase originates from a critical moment in Act 3, Scene 1 of William Shakespeare's Macbeth. Here, Macbeth, now King of Scotland, is engaged in a chilling conversation with two murderers whom he intends to hire. Driven by an overwhelming ambition and a gnawing paranoia, Macbeth perceives his former friend and fellow general, Banquo, as a direct threat to his newly acquired crown.
Macbeth expresses that while he and, by extension, those who serve him (like the murderers), may possess physical wellness, their true "health"—interpreted as peace of mind, security, and the stability of the kingdom—is gravely compromised by Banquo's continued existence. Thus, Banquo is depicted as the source of a pervasive unease or "sickness" that infiltrates Macbeth's life, obstructing any genuine contentment or assurance in his tyrannical reign.
Macbeth's Perception of Banquo
Macbeth's perspective reveals the depth of his psychological torment and his justification for murder:
- Obstacle to Peace: Banquo's noble character and the witches' prophecy that his descendants would inherit the throne make him a constant, unsettling presence in Macbeth's mind, preventing any true peace.
- Threat to Security: Macbeth believes that only by eliminating Banquo can he secure his position as king and eliminate any potential challenge to his dynasty.
- Source of Psychological Anguish: Banquo's survival fuels Macbeth's escalating paranoia and internal conflict, manifesting as a deep-seated "sickness" that afflicts his life and prevents him from enjoying his ill-gotten gains.
The Contrast: "His Death Were Perfect"
The concluding part of the line, "Which in his death were perfect," starkly highlights Macbeth's twisted logic. He believes that only through Banquo's demise would his own "health" – his mental tranquility and the security of his reign – be "perfect" and unblemished. This demonstrates Macbeth's profound moral decline, where he views the murder of an innocent person as a necessary act to achieve stability and well-being.
To illustrate this perception:
| Aspect of "Health" | Before Banquo's Death (Macbeth's Perspective) | After Banquo's Death (Macbeth's Delusion) |
|---|---|---|
| Peace of Mind | Disturbed by prophecies and suspicion | Believed to be restored and complete |
| Security of Rule | Threatened by Banquo's potential heirs | Perceived as solidified and unshakeable |
| Personal Well-being | "Sickly" due to Banquo's living presence | "Perfect" and free from all hindrance |
This perspective is central to understanding Macbeth's rapid descent into tyranny, where he perceives human lives as mere obstacles to be ruthlessly removed for his personal and political "health."
To delve deeper into the complex characters and themes of the play, exploring resources on Macbeth can provide extensive insights. You can learn more about William Shakespeare's works and the play's historical context from reputable sources like the Royal Shakespeare Company or the Folger Shakespeare Library.
