compare and contrast Macbeth, Macduff, and Banquo. how are they alike? how are they different? is it possible to argue that Macbeth is the play's villain and Macduff or Banquo its hero, or is the matter more complicated than that?

I think things are more complicated than simply heroes and villians. The play casts light on human nature and the darkness it carries. Banquo and Macduff are certainly more virtuous than Macbeth. One can even argue that they are character foils to Macbeth. Shakespeare uses Banquo as a character foil to Macbeth. While Macbeth is rash and obsessive, Banquo is measured and wise. Macduff is also an effective foil to Macbeth. Macduff personifies the traits of loyalty and the limits of loyalty. Macduff seeks to serve a righteous leader while Macbeth is only concerned about his own ambition and power. L. Macbeth certainly uses manipulation to expose Macbeth's early flaws.