Question 1: What is the main theme conveyed in Macbeth's soliloquy?

Answer: Macbeth reflects on the futility and meaninglessness of life, highlighting feelings of despair and guilt.

Question 2: Identify one literary technique used in this passage and explain its effect.

Answer: Metaphor; it emphasises life's fleeting nature and the speaker's sense of despair.

Question 3: How does this extract reflect Macbeth’s feelings of guilt and remorse?

Answer: The imagery of life as a 'tale told by an idiot' and 'dusty death' suggests Macbeth's sense of meaninglessness and guilt.

Question 4: Discuss how the theme of guilt in this extract relates to social issues of mental health and despair.

Answer: See full answer key

Question 5: What stage directions are included in the extract, and how do they influence your understanding of Macbeth’s state of mind?

Answer: The absence of stage directions focuses attention on Macbeth's words, conveying his inner despair and nihilism.

Question 6: Identify a specific technique Macbeth uses to express his feelings about life and death.

Answer: Use of caesura with 'Out, out brief candle!' emphasizes the suddenness and finality of death.

Question 7: In what way does this monologue highlight the social issue of mental health among those burdened by guilt?

Answer: It illustrates how guilt can lead to despair and nihilism, reflecting societal concerns about mental health deterioration.

Question 8: How might this extract serve as a commentary on societal pressures and personal guilt?

Answer: See full answer key