MACBETH. … all our yesterdays have lighted fools
The way to dusty death. Out, out, brief candle!
Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player
That struts and frets his hour upon the stage
And then is heard no more. It is a tale
Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury
Signifying nothing.

What is the main idea of this famous speech from Act V of The Tragedy of Macbeth by William Shakespeare?

Macbeth is refusing to accept the idea of his wife’s death.

Macbeth is realizing that all of his striving for power has been for nothing.

Macbeth is gathering his strength for the battle that is to come.

Macbeth is expressing concern about the upcoming battle.

William Shakespeare's "Macbeth" revolves around the story of a general who commits horrendous crimes to get the throne of Scotland. The play or story deals with themes of greed, loyalty, evil against good, guilt, supernatural, and ambition, among others.

In the given quote from Macbeth from Act V scene v, we see Macbeth reacting to the news of his wife's death. He declares that "life's but a walking shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage and then is heard no more." This is similar to the "The Seven Ages of Man" from Shakespeare's "As You Like It". Macbeth seems to realize the futility of all things, be it the ambitious desire to be in power or be mighty.

Thus, the correct answer is the second option.