Had I as many sons as I have hairs, I would not wish them to a fairer death

To remember this quote use the following mnemonic.

Had I as many sons as I have hairs.

I would not wish to have more.

Send them to a fairer death. 

"Had I as many sons as I have hairs, I would not wish them to a fairer death." This quote is spoken by Siward after hearing that his son died helping to kill Macbeth in battle, act 5, scene 9, line 15.

Meaning

• "Had I as many sons as I have hairs" - Siward is saying even if he had as many sons as hairs on his head...

• "I would not wish them to a fairer death" - He wouldn't want them to die in any better way than this one did - bravely in battle. 

• Overall interpretation - Siward is proud that his son died honourably fighting for his country. It shows noble values like honour, loyalty, and sacrifice. 

Exam advice 

• Context - This is near the end of the play. Macbeth has been overthrown and Siward's son died helping to defeat him.

• Theme of honour and bravery - Siward sees his son's death not as tragic but as noble. This contrasts with Macbeth's loss of honour. Macbeth dies alone and hated, while Siward's son dies a hero. 

• Stoicism and patriotism - Siward represents a traditional, warrior-like view of manhood - duty and honour over emotion. 

• Tone - The tone is proud and controlled. It shows emotional strength and the idea that dying for a just cause is the ultimate honour.