O valiant cousin, worthy gentleman

To remember this quote use the following mnemonic.

This is an "O" shaped valley he said to the ant who was his cousin. It was worth getting up here but now I need the gents. 

This is an "O" shaped valley he said to the ant (O valiant)

cousin (cousin).

worth getting up here (worthy)

I need the gents (gentleman). 

"O valiant cousin, worthy gentleman," is spoken by King Duncan, act 1, scene 2, line 26, in response to a report by a captain about Macbeths bravery in battle. 

O valiant - The term "valiant" signifies courage and heroism, qualities that are highly valued in a warrior.

Cousin - This establishes the family link between Macbeth and Duncan and shows a close relationship between the two.

Worthy - Suggests Macbeth is deserving of respect and admiration.

Gentleman - Another sign of respect indicating a man of good family breeding and social position. 

The praise reflects how Macbeth is initially perceived by others as a noble and honourable warrior which contrasts with Macbeths later betrayal. 

This theme of loyalty and later betrayal underscores the play's exploration of the corrupting effects of ambition.