Signs of nobleness like stars shall shine on all deservers.

To remember this quote use the following mnemonic.

There's no signs of nobleness here. 

But like stars, 

he shall shine his torch on all deservers. 

"Signs of nobleness like stars shall shine on all deservers." This quote is spoken by King Duncan after hearing of Macbeth's bravery in battle, Act 1, scene 4, line 42. 

Meaning 

• "Signs of nobleness like stars shall shine on all deservers." - Duncan is saying that people who deserve honour (like Macbeth) will be rewarded and recognised, just as stars shine brightly in the sky.

• Overall interpretation - Duncan believes in rewarding loyalty and virtue openly. He sees Macbeth as a noble hero and plans to honour him further. 

Exam advice

• Context - Duncan is praising Macbeth, not knowing that Macbeth is already beginning to think about murdering him. 

• Theme of appearance versus reality - Duncan's belief in rewarding good deeds is sincere but naive. He doesn't realise Macbeth is hiding dark intentions.

• Imagery of stars - Shakespeare uses the image of stars to symbolize honour, goodness and visibility - link this to Macbeth later asking stars to "hide your fires" so his "black and deep desires" stay hidden. 

• Dramatic irony - The audience knows that Macbeth is already plotting. Duncan's trust makes his murder even more tragic. 

• Character contrast - Duncan is portrayed as a good and trusting king, while Macbeth becomes a deceptive and ambitious murderer.