Act 1 Scene 2 Response
In this scene, we are introduced to the main character, Macbeth, as well as other major characters in the the play. It is important to note that he and Banquo, Macbeth's friend, are introduced indirectly through a conversation. This, I believe, was done purposefully by Shakespeare to embellish their images as being valiant, loyal, and charismatic warriors.
This conversation, in which the two are introduced, takes place after a battle between Scotland, Ireland, and Norway. A wounded captain who was present at the battle recounts the battle to Duncan, the Scottish king. He describes thoroughly how Macbeth mercilessly beheaded Macdonwald, an enemy of the state. Furthermore, he tells Duncan how Macbeth and Banquo stood bravely against the Norwegian invaders and fought even more crazily than before.
Such details only create an exaggerated semblance of Macbeth and Banquo in the reader's heads as being courageous warriors. I believe this is why Shakespeare decided to introduce the two characters this way: to embroider their images. This happens in real life as well. When two of your friends talk about an attractive girl, she may seem perfect. This, however, may change when you directly meet the girl and get to know her. I can only predict that such change in image will happen to that of Macbeth.
After the wounded captain is carried off, Ross, a Scottish nobleman, enters the conversation. He reports to Duncan that the treacherous Thane of Cawdor has been defeated and that Macbeth has driven the invaders off. Duncan claims, "No more that thane of Cawdor shall deceive / Our bosom interest," (I.ii.73-74) and orders him to be executed. He also appoints Macbeth as the new thane. This is important because this is when Macbeth steps into power. From being a loyal grunt, he finally holds a noteworthy position. Moreover, it is important to note that Macbeth is replacing the original Thane of Cawdor, who turned out to be a traitor. Duncan says, "What he [ex-Thane of Cawdor] hath lost, noble Macbeth hath won" (I.ii.77). This quotation triggers some foreshadowing of what will happen to Macbeth later in this play.