Final answer:
The captain's portrayal of Macbeth as a fearless warrior in battle reveals his bravery and combat skills, indicating respect and high regard for his contribution to Scotland's defense.
Step-by-step explanation:
The captain's description of Macbeth's role in the battle against the rebels portrays him as a fearless and valiant warrior. The text indicates that Macbeth was undaunted by the massing enemies and played a crucial part in defending the kingdom. Words like 'for brave Macbeth - well he deserves that name' and descriptions of him fighting the Norwegian ranks vigorously, suggest that Macbeth was respected and held in high esteem for his combat prowess and courage. The captain's speech to King Duncan emphasizes Macbeth's instrumental efforts in securing a victory for Scotland against the invading forces and the traitorous thane of Cawdor.
Later, Macbeth's soliloquies reveal a contemplative and ambitious side, where he contemplates fate and his own potential for kingship, as seen in the lines 'If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me, Without my stir' and 'Come what come may, Time and the hour runs through the roughest day.' These lines portray a man who is beginning to grapple with the prophecy of his future reign, suggesting depth and complexity to his character.