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. 

Meaning

• 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. 

Exam advice

• Theme of Macbeth as a noble hero - At the start of the play Macbeth is admired and trusted by King Duncan. This makes his later betrayal (murdering Duncan) more shocking.

• Theme of dramatic irony - The audience already knows the witches have spoken to Macbeth about becoming king. Duncan's praise makes us more aware of the tragic downfall to come.

• Theme of appearance vs reality - Macbeth appears noble and loyal but inside he is already tempted by ambition. This quote highlights the gap between how others see him and who his is becoming.