Final Answer:
Quench'd, in Act II, scene ii, refers to B. Extinguished. Shakespeare employs a pun on this word, conveying both the literal meaning of extinguished and the metaphorical sense of satiation.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Act II, scene ii of Shakespeare's play, "quench'd" is used by Lady Macbeth in her soliloquy. The primary meaning is "extinguished," as she speaks of dousing the guards' senses with alcohol. However, Shakespeare cleverly employs a pun, infusing the word with a second meaning. Lady Macbeth also uses "quench'd" metaphorically to convey the idea of satiation or satisfaction, suggesting that the guards will be so inebriated that they will be unable to fulfill their duties. This play on words adds depth to the text, as Lady Macbeth not only plans to extinguish the guards' consciousness but also to satisfy her own ambitious desires.
The use of puns in Shakespeare's works is a hallmark of his linguistic prowess. In this instance, the double entendre serves to highlight Lady Macbeth's cunning nature and her ability to manipulate language to suit her purposes. The nuanced use of "quench'd" enriches the scene, allowing for multiple interpretations and adding layers to Lady Macbeth's character.
In conclusion, Shakespeare's pun on "quench'd" showcases the playwright's linguistic dexterity and his ability to imbue language with multifaceted meanings. This wordplay contributes to the complexity of the characters and themes in "Macbeth," inviting the audience to engage with the text on both a literal and symbolic level.
Correct option is B. Extinguished