Final answer:
King Duncan calls Macbeth 'peerless kinsman' in Shakespeare's 'Macbeth,' illustrating Duncan's trust in Macbeth's valor and loyalty before Macbeth's eventual betrayal.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase 'peerless kinsman' is used by King Duncan in Shakespeare's play Macbeth to refer to Macbeth himself. After Macbeth's victory over the Thane of Cawdor, Duncan considers Macbeth a 'peerless kinsman,' acknowledging his valor and loyalty. This phrase underscores Duncan's trust and high regard for Macbeth, serving as an example of dramatic irony given Macbeth's later betrayal.
The title of the Thane of Cawdor is passed from a treacherous holder to Macbeth, symbolizing the transfer of trust Duncan places in him. However, prophecies from witches and Macbeth's own ambitions nurture the seeds of his eventual downfall and regicide.