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What does macbeth mean by “his virtues will plead like angels”?

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Answer:

In Shakespeare's play "Macbeth", the line "his virtues will plead like angels" refers to the fact that Macbeth is feeling guilty for his actions and is starting to imagine the consequences of his crimes. He realizes that Banquo, whom he has just had killed, was a virtuous man and that his spirit will be a constant reminder of Macbeth's guilt. The line is spoken in Act III, Scene 1, as Macbeth is reflecting on the murder of Banquo and how it will affect his conscience and future actions. Macbeth means that Banquo's good qualities and virtuous actions will plead his case in the afterlife and make him seem like an angel. Macbeth recognizes that Banquo was a better man than he is and that his spirit will haunt him and remind him of his evil deeds. In other words, Banquo's virtues will be like angels that will testify against Macbeth in the afterlife.

Step-by-step explanation:

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User Nemec
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Answer: Macbeth is praising Duncan's character: He’s a virtuous, innocent & perfect king, and thus "his virtues will plead like angels, trumpet-tongued against the deep... of his taking off". It like Macbeth is picturing Jugdement Day; a soul weighed in the balance, poised between the heavens and heck.

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User Daniel Watrous
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