Question

In what context does Macbeth make this speech? "Out, out, brief candle! Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player That struts and frets his hour upon the stage And then is heard no more." A. He is surrounded by the enemy. B. He learns of the death of his wife. C. He dons his armor and brandishes his sword. D. He is gathering his armies to march off to war.

Answer 1

Letter B. He learns of the death of his wife

The context of his speech revolves around Lady Macbeth's death that upon learning what happened to his wife, he resolves that life has no meaning anymore. And now Macbeth wishes for his own candle-flame to blow out. He is tired of living, and he thinks that his existence is meaningless.