Ross (Macbeth)
Play
Summary
Ross is a Scottish thane who functions primarily as a messenger and witness throughout the play, conveying news of military victories to Duncan, later delivering the terrible tidings of Macduff's murdered family to Macduff in England. His repeated role as harbinger of disaster gives structural rhythm to the play's unfolding catastrophe; he ultimately joins Malcolm's cause against Macbeth.
Notable Quotations
"Your son, my lord, has paid a soldier's debt: / He only lived but till he was a man." *(V.8)*