"A tale told by an idiot"

    Cards (19)

    • What metaphor does Macbeth use to describe life?
      Life is a brief candle
    • What does Macbeth mean by "life is a tale told by an idiot"?
      Life is meaningless and chaotic
    • How does Macbeth's use of Lady Macbeth's language reflect their relationship?
      It shows their evil connection and love
    • What does the image of light in the candle symbolize in Macbeth's view of love?
      His love for her surpasses his love for God
    • What does Macbeth's view of life as a "poor player" suggest about his beliefs?
      He believes life is pointless and predetermined
    • How does the concept of fate relate to tragedy in Macbeth?
      Fate limits free will and controls outcomes
    • How does Macbeth's self-deception affect his responsibility for his actions?
      He blames God instead of accepting guilt
    • What irony is present in Macbeth's belief about free will?
      He acts freely but blames fate for tragedy
    • What dark humor is associated with the actor playing Macbeth?
      He performs someone else's script
    • How does Shakespeare's life contrast with Macbeth's choices?
      Shakespeare reinvented himself, unlike Macbeth
    • What does Macbeth's attempt to write his script in blood signify?
      His rejection of God and morality
    • How would the audience perceive Macbeth's desire to kill Duncan?
      They would understand his ambition but reject his morality
    • What theme does Shakespeare introduce to discourage rebellion against King James?
      Christianity and divine punishment
    • What was the only way to improve social position before Shakespeare's time?
      Joining the church or army
    • How does Shakespeare's success reflect the idea of the self-made man?
      He rose from humble beginnings to success
    • What does the audience's understanding of Macbeth's choices reveal about free will?
      They see his choices as leading to tragedy
    • What does the phrase "strutting his hour on the stage" imply about Macbeth's life?
      His life is temporary and performative
    • How does the theme of control manifest in Macbeth's actions?
      He believes he controls his fate but does not
    • What does Shakespeare hope to achieve by introducing Christian themes in Macbeth?
      To deter rebellion against authority