1. Symbols in Shakespeare's Macbeth
Lastly, Macbeth responds to the news of Lady Macbeth's suicide by proclaiming "out, out brief candle" (5.5.3), using the candle's flame as a metaphor for her short life and sudden death. The image of the candle is used to show how vulnerable life is. ... When one puts a bowl over a lit candle, its light is no longer seen. ... She enters the scene holding a candle, and when the doctor asks her gentlewoman how the lady happens to have the candle, the gentlewoman replies, "Why, it stood by her: she has light by her continually; 'tis her command" (5.1.22-23). ...
- Word Count: 1376
- Approx Pages: 6
- Grade Level: High School