Heir to the Throne

It has been a long day after battling the likes of England and Norway.  Although a successful outcome, I was presented with some shocking news. I would never have expected the honourable Macdonwald to defect to England and betray his homeland, Scotland.  As much as this saddens me, this day also revealed my loyal supporters. I am now well informed of Macbeth’s acts on the battlefield; I am confident that my decision to name Macbeth, Thane of Cawdor, was well deserved especially since he has slain his predecessor.

As a result of today’s events, I am forced to reckon with the reality of my weariness.  I feel age has come upon me and it is the time to think about my heir to the throne.  Such occasions make me think of my dearest wife.  If she had not passed so young, she would be my biggest supporter and mother to our two sons. If not for Macbeth and Banquo acting as older brothers to Malcolm and Donaldbain, they would have missed out on a loving family environment.

As King of Scotland, there was no choice but to focus on duty and serving the people.  The opportunity to be a loving father was limited. Nonetheless they have both become handsome, well mannered young men. Now I must put my trust in one of my sons to rule Scotland. They are both reasonable candidates, so I do fear that they may feel I prefer one son over the other.  But they know that I am a man of tradition; there is no denying this fact.  Malcolm is my eldest son and therefore, the throne should be passed on to him. Although he may be the rightful heir, his inexperience concerns me. He has but an innocent mind, living the life of royalty. He has not felt the enormous pressure of decision making and the effects it has on the people of Scotland. He has not even experienced the joy of women. Ultimately, I believe he understands the concept of duty, primarily because our relationship has been based more on kingship than father and son.

My next agenda shall be to prepare Malcolm as the next ruler. It will not take much effort to get Malcolm to participate in my plans as he looks up to Macbeth and Banquo as elder brothers. Macbeth and Banquo are truly honourable men of Scotland. They have fought valiantly in battles and have demonstrated their loyalty to the throne. They are men of strong character and leadership. They have served me well over the years. I indeed have utmost trust in them. Malcolm will surely be guided well by them, so I can rest at ease.

As the King of Scotland I believe Malcolm to be the rightful and worthy heir. Despite his royal blood, he is his father’s son. He will no doubt rise to the occasion and rule justly over the kingdom as I have.

-          Amilah Rasool