What are some synonyms for decimated?

In act v of a midsummer night's dream, quince presents the prologue for “pyramus and thisbe.” when he finishes, hippolyta comments: indeed he hath played on his prologue like a child on a recorder—a sound, but not in government. which tone does the simile “played on his prologue like a child on a recorder” create? it creates a sad, wistful tone by comparing quince’s performance to a beautiful tune. it creates a surprised tone by comparing quince’s performance to an eloquent speech by a government official. it creates a relaxed tone by comparing quince’s performance to lovely recorder music. it creates a humorous tone by comparing quince’s performance to a child playing an instrument badly.