A Tale Told By An Idiot Quote
The famous quote "A tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing" comes from William Shakespeare's play Macbeth. The line is spoken by the character Macbeth after he hears about the death of his wife Lady Macbeth. The quote has become popular outside of its context and has been used in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music.
Origins of the Quote
The quote is part of a monologue by Macbeth in Act 5, Scene 5 of the play. Macbeth is reflecting on the futility of life and the emptiness of his own existence. The full quote reads:
"Out, out, brief candle!Life's but a walking shadow, a poor playerThat struts and frets his hour upon the stageAnd then is heard no more. It is a taleTold by an idiot, full of sound and fury,Signifying nothing."
The quote is often interpreted as a commentary on the meaningless and transitory nature of life. Macbeth sees life as a fleeting moment, a mere shadow, and compares it to a play performed by a fool. The sound and fury he refers to are the noise and chaos of life, which are ultimately insignificant and lead to nothing.
Meaning and Interpretations
The quote has been interpreted in various ways by different people. Some see it as a reflection on the human condition and the inevitability of death. Others see it as a criticism of the futility of war and violence. Some interpret it as a warning against the dangers of ambition or a commentary on the corrupting influence of power.
One of the most famous uses of the quote outside of its original context is in the novel The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner. The title of the novel is taken from the quote and the book itself is divided into four sections, each told from the perspective of a different character. The novel has been interpreted as a commentary on the decline of the South and the disintegration of traditional values.
The quote has also been referenced in various forms of media, including music and film. The band Muse used the quote in their song "Knights of Cydonia" and the quote has been used in films such as The Departed and The Grey.
Conclusion
The quote "A tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing" is a powerful and thought-provoking line that has resonated with audiences for centuries. Its origins in Shakespeare's Macbeth and its use in various forms of media have cemented its place in popular culture. Whether seen as a commentary on the human condition, a warning against the dangers of ambition, or a criticism of war and violence, the quote continues to inspire and challenge us today.