Final answer:
In Act 1, Scene 2 of Macbeth, the captain's description of a blood-covered Macbeth as "noble" and "heroic" exemplifies the literary device of c) juxtaposition, highlighting contrasting aspects of Macbeth's character.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the captain uses the words "noble" and "heroic" to describe Macbeth, who is covered in blood, Shakespeare is employing a literary device known as juxtaposition.
Juxtaposition involves placing two elements or concepts close together with contrasting effect. In this case, the noble and heroic qualities are contrasted with the vivid image of blood, which is typically associated with violence and may hint at Macbeth's future bloody deeds. This contrast serves to catch the audience's attention and foreshadow the complex nature of Macbeth's character, suggesting a blend of valor and sinister potential.
It's not antithesis, which would be a contrast of opposite ideas or words in the same sentence, nor is it anaphora, which is the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses. It also doesn't quite fit irony, which generally refers to a situation in which there is a significant difference between expectation and reality.
The use of juxtaposition in this context lays the groundwork for understanding the multilayered persona of Macbeth and the thematic complexity of the play.