Malcom in Macbeth is Duncan's _____.

Question

Accepted Answer

Malcolm in Macbeth is Duncan's eldest son.

Here's why Option 4 is correct and the others are incorrect:

*   **Option 4: Eldest son (Correct)**: The play *Macbeth* clearly establishes Malcolm as King Duncan's heir. He is referred to as the Prince of Cumberland, a title bestowed upon him by Duncan, signifying his intended succession to the throne. This explicitly makes him Duncan's eldest son and the next in line to be king.

*   **Option 1: Second son (Incorrect)**: While Duncan does have another son, Donalbain, Malcolm is presented as the elder of the two. The play emphasizes Malcolm's role as the designated successor, which would not be the case if he were the younger son.

*   **Option 2: Brother (Incorrect)**: Duncan is the King, and Malcolm is clearly established as his son, not his brother. Their relationship is one of father and son, not siblings.

*   **Option 3: Friend (Incorrect)**: While Malcolm is loyal to his father, Duncan, and likely respects him, their relationship is fundamentally one of parent and child, not friendship. The play emphasizes the familial bond and the line of succession, not a friendship between Duncan and Malcolm.