A motif is a phrase or image that is repeated throughout a work of literature. As it is repeated, it gathers force, impressing upon the reader or audience its significance. A motif may represent a single idea or a collection of related ideas. The “ vulnerable child” motif is highly represented in Macbeth through Banquo and King Duncan I.
Banquo was Macbeth’s best friend and ally in battle. He trusted Macbeth, most likely with his life and with this trust he became a vulnerability. Macbeth knew that Banquo’s future children would have the throne one day and this infuriated Macbeth, so he decided to kill him. With his trust and knowledge of Banquo, Macbeth was able to kill him successfully; though in the end he grieved horribly for his killings.
King Duncan I knew Macbeth to be a strong warrior and great person. He knew he would be able to stay at Macbeth’s home overnight without there being any problems. The king trusted Macbeth to allow him to sleep safely in his home and that is the way Macbeth and Lady Macbeth allowed him to feel that night, safe. The king became vulnerable in Macbeth’s home and therefore became a easy obstacle to overcome.
In Macbeth there were many examples of vulnerability but the outstanding ones was those of the King and of Banquo. These individuals became open targets for Macbeth and by this he was able to complete his goals of becoming king one day.