Question 1: Identify one literary technique used in this extract and explain its effect.

Answer: Possible answer: Metaphor ('brief candle') symbolises life's fragility and fleeting nature.

Question 2: What is the overall tone of Macbeth's speech, and how might it relate to modern technology themes such as obsolescence?

Answer: The tone is nihilistic and reflects the futility of life, akin to how outdated technology becomes useless over time.

Question 3: Which part of the extract reflects Macbeth's despair, and how does this relate to the idea of a 'lost connection' in technology?

Answer: The lines 'Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player...' express despair, similar to a device that fails to connect or function properly, symbolising disconnection and hopelessness.

Question 4: Analyse the use of repetition in the phrase 'Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow'. What effect does this have?

Answer: Repetition emphasises the monotony and inexorability of time, paralleling the persistent, repetitive cycles in technological updates or failures.

Question 5: Discuss how Macbeth’s reflection on life could be compared to a failed technological system that no longer serves its purpose.

Answer: Macbeth's view of life as 'a tale told by an idiot' captures the sense of chaos and meaninglessness associated with technological failure, where a system may seem purposeless or dysfunctional.

Question 6: How does the structure of this soliloquy contribute to its overall impact?

Answer: The rhythmic, repetitive structure mirrors the relentless march of time and life's monotony, heightening the sense of despair.

Question 7: Create a brief modern paraphrase of this soliloquy, focusing on themes of technology and obsolescence.

Answer: Students should craft a paraphrase that captures Macbeth’s nihilism, comparing life's fleeting nature to outdated or failing technology and its inevitable decline.

Question 8: Reflect on how the themes in this extract could be relevant to discussions about digital obsolescence today.

Answer: The extract's themes of life's fragility and inevitable end relate to how digital devices become obsolete, highlighting concerns about sustainability and progress.