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

Answer: Possible answer: The repeated use of 'tomorrow' emphasizes the endless, monotonous passing of time, highlighting Macbeth's despair.

Question 2: What is the tone of Macbeth's speech in this passage? Provide evidence from the text.

Answer: The tone is despairing and nihilistic, as shown by phrases like 'dusty death' and 'tale told by an idiot.'

Question 3: Explain the significance of the phrase 'life's but a walking shadow' in the context of Macbeth's feelings.

Answer: It suggests that life is insubstantial and meaningless, reflecting Macbeth's sense of hopelessness.

Question 4: Identify and describe the literary device used in the phrase 'a tale / Told by an idiot.'

Answer: This is a metaphor comparing life to a foolish story, emphasizing chaos and meaninglessness.

Question 5: How does Shakespeare use rhythm and punctuation to convey Macbeth's emotional state?

Answer: The irregular rhythm and punctuation, such as colons and semicolons, mirror Macbeth's fragmented thoughts and despair.

Question 6: Choose one line from the extract and analyze its emotional impact.

Answer: Sample answer: 'Out, out brief candle!' conveys Macbeth’s desire to escape the fleeting nature of life, highlighting despair.

Question 7: Discuss how the theme of mortality is reflected in this soliloquy.

Answer:

Question 8: Identify the volta (turn) in Macbeth's speech and discuss its significance.

Answer: The volta occurs with the shift from contemplating the passage of time to emphasizing life's futility, deepening Macbeth's despair.

Question 9: In your own words, summarize Macbeth's feelings expressed in this soliloquy.

Answer: Macbeth feels hopeless, overwhelmed by the meaningless and fleeting nature of life.

Question 10: Creative Prompt: Imagine you are Macbeth. Write a brief monologue expressing your feelings about life and death, using at least three literary devices.

Answer: