Macbeth 1.4 Performance: Duncan, Lines 14b-21

The transcript reflects on the themes of gratitude and merit, emphasizing the challenge of adequately compensating someone who deserves much. It explores the idea that even the swiftest recompense may not suffice for those who have earned great thanks, and it concludes with a reflection on the imbalance between what is due and what can be paid.

What does the speaker imply about their feelings of ingratitude?

How does the speaker describe the concept of recompense?

What emotions are conveyed through the line 'Would thou hadst less deserved'?

In what way does the speaker feel they have fallen short in expressing gratitude?

What does the phrase 'more is thy due' suggest about the relationship between the speaker and the addressed?