The correct option is
C. Macbeth received news of his wife's death.
Detailed Explanation:
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Context of the Quote: The line "Out, out, brief candle!" is spoken by Macbeth in Act 5, Scene 5 of Shakespeare's Macbeth. This moment occurs after he learns of Lady Macbeth's death, which profoundly impacts him. The "brief candle" symbolizes the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death.
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Understanding the Quote:
- The "candle" represents life, which is fragile and can be extinguished at any moment. By saying "Out, out," Macbeth expresses his despair and nihilism, reflecting on the futility of life and the darkness that has enveloped him following the loss of his wife.
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This moment is pivotal as it marks a significant emotional low for Macbeth, who has already descended into madness and moral decay due to his ambition and the subsequent actions he has taken to secure power.
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Why Option C is Correct:
- Macbeth's reaction to Lady Macbeth's death reveals his deep sense of loss and the consequences of their ambition. He realizes that their quest for power has led to tragedy, and he feels a profound emptiness. This line encapsulates his existential crisis and the realization that life is ultimately meaningless.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect:
- Option A: Macbeth received news of Banquo's death:
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While Banquo's death is significant in the play, it does not evoke the same level of despair in Macbeth as Lady Macbeth's death does. Macbeth is more concerned about maintaining his power and dealing with the threat Banquo poses rather than reflecting on the nature of life and death.
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Option B: Banquo received news of his son's death:
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This option is incorrect because Banquo does not express any thoughts about life being fleeting in the same way Macbeth does. Banquo's death occurs earlier in the play, and he does not have a moment of reflection similar to Macbeth's after Lady Macbeth's death.
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Option D: Macbeth killed King Duncan:
- This option is also incorrect because the murder of Duncan is a turning point in the play, but it does not lead to the same existential reflection that follows Lady Macbeth's death. At the time of Duncan's murder, Macbeth is still driven by ambition and does not yet express the same sense of futility.
Summary of Key Points:
- The quote "Out, out, brief candle!" reflects Macbeth's despair after Lady Macbeth's death.
- It symbolizes the fragility of life and the emptiness that follows their ambition.
- The other options do not capture the same emotional depth or significance related to the theme of life and death.
- This moment marks a critical turning point in Macbeth's character, showcasing his descent into nihilism.
By understanding the context and significance of this quote, students can better appreciate the themes of ambition, loss, and the human condition in Shakespeare's
Macbeth.