In Shakespeare's *Macbeth*, the quote "Out, out brief candle, life is but a walking shadow" reflects the transience of life and the inevitability of death. The metaphor of a "brief candle" signifies the fleeting nature of existence, indicating that life is temporary and fragile. By comparing life to a "walking shadow," the text suggests that it lacks substance and permanence, further emphasizing the emptiness of human experience.
Moreover, the line "a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing" conveys a profound sense of despair and meaninglessness. It portrays life as chaotic and nonsensical, suggesting that human struggles and passions ultimately bear no significance. This sentiment captures Macbeth's disillusionment, as he grapples with the consequences of his ambition and the futility of his actions. Ultimately, the passage encapsulates a deep existential reflection on the nature of life itself.