As the play Macbeth progresses, Banquo's role shifts. To Macbeth, Banquo was once an ally who he relied on. He felt comfort in using Banquo's knowledge and there was a friendship between the two men. But, in act 3, Banquo has suddenly become an enemy to Macbeth during his hero journey. Macbeth sees Banquo as a threat. The main reason that this idea is planted in his head is because of the witch's prophecy. He believes that because the first part of it came true (him becoming king) then the second part will also become true (Banquo's sons will take over). He fears losing his title as King and he knows that Banquo is his biggest threat to him. His knowledge that he once needed is now dangerous to him. Also, he is afraid of Banquo discovering the truth about Duncan's murder. Banquo knows that Macbeth somehow cheated into fulfilling his prophecy. Macbeth proves that Banquo is considered an enemy when he says to the hit man "Who wears our health but sickly in his life, which in his death were perfect". This quote is saying that as long as Banquo is alive, He (Macbeth) will be sick. But once Banquo is dead, he will be healthy. In order to take care of the threat that Banquo possesses, Macbeth orders a hit on him and his son. Unfortunately for Macbeth, only Banquo is killed and not his son. This problem is yet another obstacle along Macbeth's hero journey that he must deal with.
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