Exploring William Shakespeare’s Message on Insanity & Mourning in “Hamlet”

Vrajesha Patel Abida Ali ENG 4U January 6, 2020 Rough Draft: Hamlet Essay Acknowledging one’s pain during mourning in the passing of someone who has an impact in one’s life is acceptable, however it no longer is acceptable when mourning brings out different levels of insanity in an individual. Hamlet from one of William Shakespeare’s … Read more

Exploring Hamlet’s Flawed Disposition into Madness in Shakespeare’s Play

Imagine your friend or beloved says “Now whether it be bestial oblivion, or some craven scruple” (4.4.39-40). What would you think they are attempting to say? What mad language and absurdity are they talking about? The patrician of Denmark and therefore the title character of this play is heartbroken, bitter and filled with emotion. Hamlet … Read more

Discover Hamlet’s Hidden Theme of Acting and See Clues in The Play and Metaphors

When people first see “Hamlet,” they tend to over look a major theme in the play. Themes that initially come to mind are murder, incest, and revenge. However, an often unseen theme is “acting”. Although acting is not the central theme in “Hamlet,” its recurrence is of importance in the play. The acting in the … Read more

Admire Hamlet’s Strengths and Explore His Faults: A Rich and Complex Character

As a result of my study of Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet”, there is no doubt in my mind that Hamlet possesses many strengths that I admire, such as his intelligence, nobility, wit, loyalty and also his bravery. However, throughout the course of the play his flaws and weaknesses gradually emerge. Hamlet is slow to act but … Read more

Explore Laertes’ Tragic Role in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”

In the play “Hamlet”, Shakespeare uses contrasting characters to further the themes found throughout the play and emphasis corruption of Denmark. One major theme seen in the play is loyalty, which resonates with the minor character Laertes. Laertes is the son of Polonius and brother of Ophelia, and although his part in the play is … Read more

Explore Hamlet’s Tragic Heroism in William Shakespeare’s Classic Tragedy

In the play Hamlet, William Shakespeare is able to convey an absolute tragedy that is depicted in a series of misfortunes that seem to follow the protagonist, Hamlet. By using various conventions regularly associated with a historical tragedy, Shakespeare allows readers to understand, relate to, and emphasize with his work. Through Hamlet’s tragic flaw, the … Read more

Explore How Gender Influences the Central Female Characters in William Shakespeare’s Hamlet

Gender has great significance in sociolinguistic and interdisciplinary literature, and is a central theme of William Shakespeare’s Hamlet. However, Shakespeare’s revenge tragedy reveals little regarding the respective motives and emotions of its two central female characters, Gertrude and Ophelia, as both are largely representations of women of the time, and are created through the prism … Read more

“Exploring the Seven Deadly Sins of Hamlet, as Portrayed by Shakespeare

Carter Haskel Dr. Demarco April 29, 2019 Hamlet’s Seven Deadly Sins The tragedy Hamlet bases its entire premise upon the ambition of the royal family and how many sins a party is willing to commit before receiving what they so desire which is ultimately, power. The antagonist, Claudius, does whatever he deems necessary to gain … Read more

Deceiving Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”: Secretive Characters and Hidden Lies.

Khalid “The theme of deception is key in Shakespeare’s Hamlet.” To what extent do you agree with the statement? Support your answer with close reference to the text. Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” encompasses a complex concentration of elements that exhibit the theme of deception. Deception serves as a foundation to the play as we are made question … Read more

Discovering Corruption in Shakespeare’s Hamlet: Exploring Morality in the Play

Well, the term of morality is described as our standards that us as individuals possess that characterise what we believe to be right and wrong behaviours. Ideas such as moral standards with regards to our behaviour, our moral responsibility referring to our conscience, and our moral identity referring to an individual capable of completing right … Read more

Explore the Deception of Hamlet Through Shakespeare’s Use of Irony

One of the most popular forms if orny used in literature, dramatic irony, involves the audience knowing events or facts before the actual characters knowing it. This can be created through suspense, third person omniscient narration, or through other characters deceiving each other. In the form of deception, characters often deceive others in order to … Read more

Exploring Hamlet’s Various Emotions and Their Development of His Character

1.Throughout the play, Hamlet has many different emotions and shifts in thought that ultimately develop him as a character. He first shows determination and motivation in the play as in Act 1 Scene 5 he says “So, uncle, there you are. Now to my word./It is adieu, adieu, remember me.’/ I have sworn’t”(1.5.117-119). Hamlet is … Read more

Explore the Use of Music and Wind Instruments in Shakespeare’s 'Hamlet'

Other than the trumpet mentioned in stage directions, there is also an allusion to recorders, which is another type of wind instrument, serving as the flute of that time. When Hamlet is talking to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, he sees players enter with recorders. He insists on Guildenstern trying to play the recorder. After Guildenstern tells … Read more

Shakespeare’s Reflective Views on Women in Patriarchal 16th Century Society

Shakespeare’s Hamlet is reflective of the 16th century, a male dominating society. At the time, the productions of the play included male actors for all female roles and are therefore reflective of the perceptions of women in the society. The docile, disgustful, and vulnerable perceptions of women in Hamlet are pivotal in depicting Shakespeare’s views … Read more

Explore the Force of Human Temper in Shakespeare’s Hamlet: Revenge Plot, Reactions and Results

In William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, a common theme and focal point of the tragic story is the concept of revenge and how each character seeks to avenge one another through various plots of vengeance. Shakespeare highlighting the theme of revenge emphasizes how a fixated goal strictly set on revenge can demoralize an individual and generate their … Read more

Explore The Family Dynamics of Hamlet in Shakespeare’s Tragedy

In The Tragedy of Hamlet by William Shakespeare, there are many family conflicts that play a crucial role in the whole play. The relationships in the play cause a constant hostility between the characters, especially Hamlet, who’s resentment for his uncle causes him to question the wisdom of his father, and himself. Throughout Shakespeare’s The … Read more

Explore Madness in Shakespeare’s Hamlet: Examining Hamlet, Ophelia, and Laertes’ Mental Illness

In William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, one of the most evident and important themes is the theme of madness. The theme is apparent throughout the play, mainly through the actions and thoughts of Hamlet, Ophelia, and Laertes. Madness is defined as the quality or condition of mental illness or derangement (being insane). Madness is at the center … Read more

Exploring the Tragic Heroes of Hamlet and Oedipus: Avenging Fathers and the Fates They Encounter

Mitchell Quinn Ms. Firosz World Literature 09 January 2019 Title of Your Report Hamlet from Hamlet Prince of Denmark is as the title of the book states. Hamlet Is a story of a tragic hero named Hamlet Prince Of Denmark trying to avenge his father’s death due to his psychotic uncle killing him to take … Read more

Solving the Mystery: Is Hamlet a Madman or Misunderstood?

Madness is oftentimes defined as a condition in which the mind disposes of all logical thoughts. Therefore, leaving the individual confused and without any proper understanding of their surroundings. This condition tends to occur in the minds of individuals who are in need of closure from a series of horrible experiences and thus fall into … Read more

Exploring Hamlet’s Wavering Disposition Into True Madness: Yorick’s Skull, Pirate Ship, and Misogyny

Imagine your friend or beloved says “Now whether it be bestial oblivion, or some craven scruple” (4.4.39-40). What would you think they are attempting to say? What mad language and absurdity are they talking about? The patrician of Denmark and therefore the title character of this play is heartbroken, bitter and filled with emotion. Hamlet … Read more

Uncover the Meaning Behind Hamlet’s Wavering Madness: Misogyny, Yorick’s Skull and Pirate Ship

Imagine your friend or beloved says “Now whether it be bestial oblivion, or some craven scruple” (4.4.39-40). What would you think they are attempting to say? What mad language and absurdity are they talking about? The patrician of Denmark and therefore the title character of this play is heartbroken, bitter and filled with emotion. Hamlet … Read more

Exploring Hamlet’s Transformative Maternal Relationship

Maternal Relationship Transformation in Hamlet The relationship between a son and his mother will go on to define the ongoing. Hamlet, arguably the most complex and articulate character in all of English literature, never ceases to surprise and shock readers. His battle with Claudius is always going to be one-sided, as Claudius simply does not … Read more

Explore Themes and Lessons of Shakespeare’s Hamlet: Appearance vs. Reality and Revenge

Andrew Forcione Mrs. Erblat 12/10/19 History 9 The Hamlet Over recent decades, Shakespeare’s writing and work have been very significant and relevant to this day. His work has changed theater forever and has influenced others to write like him. Shakespeare’s work still has a big impact to this day and his work is still being … Read more

Exploring Hamlet’s Oedipal Complex and Its Role in His Character Arc

In Young’s Essay, Recognizing Hamlet, she argues that due to people’s common knowledge about Hamlet, they view him as “a tragic hero [with an] internal conflict between filial duty and inner yearnings.” She talks about the different perceptions of Hamlet throughout the years and “how philosophers and theater practitioners have contributed to the formation of … Read more

Explore Hamlet’s Actions and Words: Kenneth Branagh’s William Shakespeare’s Hamlet

In Shakespeare’s Hamlet, there are many different ways to interpret the play due to Shakespeare leaving scenes vague and allowing for creative licensing. No one knows what Shakespeare truly intended for the meaning behind what he wrote. This has let actors, directors, and producers put in what they think Shakespeare meant Hamlet to be. Through … Read more

Claudius’ Words to Hamlet: Comfort or Threat? Exploring Shakespeare’s Hidden Agenda

Kara Van Kesteren Professor Ellens ENG 104 November 2, 2017 Claudius’ Word’s to Hamlet: Comfort or Threat? The ending of Shakespeare’s Hamlet is the expected outcome of a tragedy: death and despair. But what make the play a masterpiece of the genre is the way the tragedy is developed from the very beginning of the … Read more

Explore Hamlet’s Journey in Shakespeare’s Tragedy: “Avenge His Father, Explore His Past and Unveil His Fatal Flaw

Hamlet Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet, depicts an innately moral man, Hamlet, who is conflicted with his desire to avenge his father’s murder by the hand of his uncle Claudius, as revealed to him by his father’s Ghost. Victim to the Oedipus complex, Hamlet’s mother’s marriage to Claudius acts as a catalyst for his psychosexual feelings, resulting … Read more

Explore How Shakespeare Challenged Renaissance Woman Stereotypes in Hamlet w/ Gertrude and Ophelia

Shakespeare created female characters with a great variety of characteristics that challenged the accepted archetype of the typical Renaissance women. Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy Hamlet features but two female characters, Gertrude and Ophelia, who despite having to conform and comply to the men’s injunction, display a considerable amount of power and agency. The two women consistently … Read more

Explore Hamlet’s Themes of Mortality, Madness, and Women’s Lives and Political Livelihood

Explore the different themes within William Shakespeare’s tragic play, Hamlet. Themes are central to understanding Hamlet as a play and identifying Shakespeare’s social and political commentary. Mortality The weight of one’s mortality and the complexities of life and death are introduced from the beginning of Hamlet. In the wake of his father’s death, Hamlet can’t … Read more

Explore “Meta-Theatre” of Hamlet Set At The Globe | How Hamlet Used Of Dramatic Pieces To Catch The Conscience of The King

Performed at the Globe in 1601, Hamlet was produced at a time when theatre was a somewhat modern channel for expression. Renaissance plays were relatively aware of their own theatrical nature, as their writers explored the technical possibilities of the medium. We have to question what kind of truths can be displayed through theatre? What … Read more

Compare and Contrast Zeffirelli’s “Hamlet” to Shakespeare’s Play: Costumes, Changes and More

Hamlet was written in 1609 by William Shakespeare; Shakespeare is one of the greatest poets and playwrights. Since the original performance of Hamlet, there have been many movie adaptations. Some of the many well-known film directors for these movies are Kenneth Branagh, Franco Zeffirelli and Sir Laurence Olivier. From the above film directors, I will … Read more

Consequences of Idealism: Evolving Beyond Hamlet’s Expectations of the Past

The Consequences of the Spectrum of Idealism In most cases, an individual’s behaviour will directly reflect their personal desires. As suggested in William Shakespeare’s tragedy, Hamlet, an individual’s unrealistic desires can hinder their ability to productively take action. When their circumstances are disrupted, many individuals will cling to the comfort and familiarity that lies in … Read more

Debate on Whether Ghosts Are Real in the Elizabethan Era: Analysis of “Macbeth” and “Hamlet”

Whether or not ghosts exist was a subject of great debate in the Elizabethan era. Elizabethan playwrights were very prevalent in the debate and their works were heavily inspired by the Roman tragedian Seneca, who brings us the concept of ghosts returning from the dead to call for revenge. The nature of such ghosts was … Read more

Explore How Hamlet’s Character Evolves After His Father’s Death in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet

In Shakespeare “Hamlet” the Character changes throughout the story based on the events that happened to him. After the death of Hamlet’s father his emotions begin to come clear. He become contempt and had lots of anger after his mother’s remarriage and considered suicide as an opinion. Hamlet began to outrage against those closest to … Read more

Balancing Independence with Relationship: Exploring Hamlet’s Struggle

Individuals often encounter a struggle between competing forces, which only lead to further doubt since it is not only about a matter of picking one or the other. It is important to protect our sense of personal identity and help guard against being overwhelmed by the demands of their surroundings and maintain independence. However, relationships … Read more

Explore the Madness Behind Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”: Grief, Irony, and Botany as Dirvens of Insanity

Hamlet by William Shakespeare written after 1599, is a tragedy that revolves around Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark, and centers on his revenge plan against his father’s murderer: . In this play, Hamlet is grieving the loss of a father and is perceived to go mad. William Shakespeare’s Hamlet depicts insanity as an intensification of … Read more

Explore The Tragic Archetype of Hamlet: Shakespeare’s Unparalleled Tragic Hero

1 William Shakespeare’s Hamlet is one of his better-known tragedies. Penned in the late 1500s, the play’s main protagonist is Prince Hamlet. He pursues revenge on his uncle, Claudius, for murdering King Hamlet, the prince’s father. Additionally, Claudius coerces Gertrude, the king’s wife and Hamlet’s mother, to marry him instead, a fact that truly disgusts … Read more

Exploring Madness in William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”: “Discover Shakespeare’s Irony and Botanical Metaphors Explaining Intensified Grief in Hamlet.

Hamlet by William Shakespeare written after 1599, is a tragedy that revolves around Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark, and centers on his revenge plan against his father’s murderer. In this play, Hamlet is grieving the loss of a father and is perceived to go mad. William Shakespeare’s Hamlet depicts insanity as an intensification of “typical” … Read more

Humor in Hamlet: “Lighten Tension in Hamlet w/Humor: How Shakespeare Brought Laughs in Grave Scenes

Humor can serve as a way to lighten the tension in an artistic work that deals with heavy themes such as madness and suicide. Humor can also provide a lighter viewpoint on the same matters that are being dealt with in a dramatic manner. Scenes that are meant to express serious thematic elements may insert … Read more

Explore Misogyny and Asexuality in Hamlet: Analyzing the Prince of Denmark’s Disdain

In Shakespeares Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, Hamlet is repulsed by women and sexuality. Sexuality and misogyny are large themes in Hamlet, in the play he is vocal about his disdain for women and his disinterest in sexuality and it is a frequent topic of conversation throughout the play. Hamlet can be perceived as asexual and … Read more

Explore the Impact of Limited Parental Figures on Hamlet’s Character in William Shakespeare’s Play

“I must be cruel only to be kind; Thus bad begins, and worse remains behind” (Shakespeare Act 3 Scene 4 Lines 181-182). Professor Bloom, a Shakespearian scholar from Yale University, explained that in his own opinion Hamlet’s main character flaws included lacking strong parental figures and being too aware of his surrounding. Bloom’s quote is … Read more

Explore How Unrealistic Desires Impede Change in Shakespeare’s Hamlet

In most cases, an individual’s behaviour will directly reflect their personal desires. As suggested in William Shakespeare’s tragedy, Hamlet, an individual’s unrealistic desires can hinder their ability to productively take action. When their circumstances are disrupted, many individuals will cling to the comfort and familiarity that lies in the past. Failure to accept reality is … Read more

Hamlet’s Timely Resolve Towards Peace: Exploring His Battle of Reason vs. Passion

Joseph Marziale Mrs. Awad English 104 13 May 2019 Peace: Hamlet’s Timely Resolve Ever since the philosophical developments of Plato and Aristotle, thinkers have mulled over the balance between passion and reason. Typically a debauchery of passion leads to animal behavior, while an overdose in reason removes the heart and soul of a man. One … Read more

Explore Madness in Shakespeare’s Hamlet: Death, Lies and Revenge

In William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, one of the most evident and important themes is the theme of madness. The theme is apparent throughout the play, mainly through the actions and thoughts of Hamlet, Ophelia, and Laertes. Madness is defined as the quality or condition of mental illness or derangement (being insane). Madness is at the center … Read more

Exploring Madness in William Shakespeare’s Hamlet: Irony and Symbolism

Hamlet is a tragedy written after 1599 by William Shakespeare that revolves around Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark, and centers on his revenge plan against his father’s murderer. In this play, Hamlet is grieving the loss of a father and is perceived to go mad. William Shakespeare’s Hamlet depicts insanity as an intensification of “typical” … Read more

Investigate Hamlet’s Complexity & Ambiguity: Early Masterpiece of Shakespeare.

Two things that hook an audience and make them interested in a character are the character’s complexity and ambiguity. Complexity because the audience likes finding layers to a character and ambiguity because it is intriguing in a way where it keeps the audience from foreshadowing due to the unpredictability of a character. Protagonist to Shakespeare’s … Read more

Ophelia: Strong Femininity from Shakespeare to Modernity

The name Ophelia is derived from the Greek ophelos, meaning help. In popular culture, calling someone an Ophelia means to call them infantile and submissive, a byword for troubled teens. Ophelia, of Shakespeare’s Hamlet and Lumineers song fame, is written as all of these characteristics and definitely would like some ophelos. However, though she reads … Read more

Uncovering Man’s Paradoxical Relationship to Faith:Hamlet’s Morality Examined

According to this work’s view of life, what is mankind’s relationship to god? To the universe? Text References: -Act 1, Scene 2 “It shows a will most incoherent to heaven,/ A heart unfortified, a mind impatient,/ An understanding simple and unschooled. ” In this passage Claudius tries to use religion to control those around him. … Read more

Uncovering the “Madness” Behind Hamlet: Shakespeare’s Tragedy of Insanity, Grief and Revenge

Hamlet is a tragedy written after 1599 by William Shakespeare that revolves around Hamlet and his revenge plan. Hamlet’s, the prince of Denmark, father has just died and his mother married his father’s brother, Claudius, who becomes the king of Denmark. After being informed by his friends that the ghost of his father appeared, he … Read more

Religious Hypocrisy and Its Sinful Justification in Shakespeare’s Hamlet

Religious Hypocrisy and its Role in Justifying Actions Religion is often a driving factor behind characters’ and peoples’ actions. However, the idea of religion is often misused to justify normally immoral actions or to clear one’s conscience of sins. For example, terrorists often justify their actions through misinterpreted religion and try to validate their decisions … Read more

Uncovering the Role of the Ghost in “Hamlet” and Its Influence on the Characters

Hamlet and the Ghost In Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’, the Ghost plays a key role in influencing the destinies of the other characters. The Ghost is important to the play as it symbolizes both fate and catalyses the plot. It also brings the play into the revenge tragedy genre, which allows foreshadowing to occur and helps the … Read more

Uncovering Existential Journey in Shakespeare’s Most Famous Soliloquy “To be or not to be”

“To be or not to be” can be identified as the most well-known soliloquy in the history of literature but what does this phrase genuinely entail? In essence, this soliloquy follows Hamlet on an existential journey in which he addresses the ultimate question, is human existence worth the horrors and difficulties of mortal life? Shakespeare’s … Read more

Unlocking Symbolism of Flowers Used by Ophelia in Shakespeare’s Plays

Alyssa Walsh ENG102 Professor Bakos Essay #2   Ophelia’s Flowers   Shakespeare liked to use flowers and plants as symbolism to illustrate his ideas.  she uses flowers as symbols of her grief and madness. She had been rejected by her lover, Hamlet; Hamlet killed her father, Polonius. Ophelia needed to express herself, and she does … Read more

Madness and Insanity in William Shakespeare’s Hamlet: The Consequences of Vengeance

In Hamlet, William Shakespeare showed many different fulfilled meanings throughout story with showing it through madness and insanity which is shown from beginning to end all ending in death. Madness is at the focal point of the contentions and issues of the play and is passed on through Shakespeare’s use of manipulation. Madness is the … Read more

Misogyny in Shakespeare’s Hamlet: Examining Gender Roles in Elizabethan Society

During the Elizabethan era, women lived in a patriarchal society in which they were heavily regarded as inferior to men. Gender roles were clearly defined and women were expected to be obedient and loyal. Shakespeare’s Hamlet reflects the male dominance and inferiority of women during this era through his depiction of the two female characters–Gertrude … Read more

Uncovering Hamlet’s Transformation Through His Soliloquies in William Shakespeare’s Play

The play Hamlet one of William Shakespeare’s most celebrated plays of all time. Inscribed in the early 1600s, Hamlet introduces a series of protagonist character’s soliloquies that are referenced to this day in many forms of literature. The protagonist hamlet goes through crucial changes from the beginning of the play to the end. Hamlet’s transformation … Read more

Hamlet & Death of a Salesman: external surveillances as a method of scrutiny & control

In the theatrical tragedies, ‘Hamlet,’ and ‘Death of a Salesman,’ the writers engage with both external surveillances, as a method of scrutiny and control, as well as a characters’ own internal surveillance of their sense of self. Hamlet is imprisoned in the Danish court, and the quotation above comes from Claudius’ observation of Hamlet’s melancholy … Read more

Hamlet’s attempt to reconcile conflicting moral frameworks

According to this work’s view of life, what is mankind’s relationship to god? To the universe? Text References: Act 1, Scene 2 “It shows a will most incoherent to heaven,/ A heart unfortified, a mind impatient,/ An understanding simple and unschooled.” In this passage Claudius tries to use religion to control those around him. Hamlet … Read more

The production of Hamlet – sound and music

There are a wide variety of roles that work together to create a play. These roles include the director, producer, scenic designer, lighting designer, sound designer, and costume designer. Each of these roles have their own important jobs to ensure the play produced is of high quality. The sounds chosen for the audience to listen … Read more

Influence of religion in Hamlet

The Tragedy Of Hamlet is one of William Shakespeare’s famous tragedies ever written. The Elizabethan era was a period when religious conflicts were much in evidence, which gets reflected in the play, Hamlet. During the era, religion was something everyone held close to their hearts. It was central to society as many people travelled long … Read more

Hamlet is responsible for his downfall

When students do not do their homework, they are denying the benefits that the practice allows them to get. Sometimes they will complain about the volume of the homework or the difficulty and they would not attempt it. However, if the students choose not to do their homework, the student will most likely receive a … Read more

Hamlet – a symbol of honour

Hamlet is, indisputably, a play full of devastating events and situations that make it a Shakespearean tragedy. Although Hamlet is manipulated by his surroundings, he is ultimately heroic because he overcomes his tragic flaw of the inability to act: he succeeds in getting revenge while eliciting catharsis from the audience. Hamlet is a tragic hero … Read more

How Shakespeare portrayed the inner lives of the characters in Hamlet

This essay will examine the way in which Shakespeare has portrayed the inner lives of the characters within Hamlet. This essay will primarily examine the characters of Hamlet and Claudius and discuss how their soliloquys and speech give insight into their individual thought process. This essay will discuss the characters from a psychoanalytic approach and … Read more

Key characters: To Kill a Mockingbird / The Great Gatsby / Jane Eyre / Hamlet

To Kill a Mockingbird Boo Radley is a secondary character that plays a significant role within the novel: To Kill a Mockingbird. The novel is indeed about killing a Mockingbird in a symbolic sense, in which, Boo Radley represents the mockingbird mentioned in the book’s title, while the children of Maycomb, Alabama do the hunting. … Read more

Hamlet’s staunch love for Ophelia was highly dedicated in disguise for her protection

In Hamlet by William Shakespeare, although it was expressed that Hamlet drove her to her death, his staunch love for Ophelia was highly dedicated in disguise for her protection. The realism of pragmatism within Hamlet actions towards Ophelia goes undoubtedly recognized. Whether his gestures of Professing Ophelia to go to the nunnery was an act … Read more

Discuss the placement and dramatic function of the ‘To be or not to be’ soliloquy in Hamlet

In his response to the adjusted position of Hamlet’s ‘To be or not to be’ soliloquy in The Royal Shakespeare Company’s 2008 production of Hamlet, David Tennant asserted that uprooting the soliloquy from ‘Act III Scene 1 to its location in the First Quarto just seemed to make more sense’. The soliloquy, in rehearsal practice, … Read more

William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet and Miguel de Cervantes’s novel Don Quixote

Human beings are inherently social and interdependent creatures. “Society is something that precedes the individual,” as Aristotle contends; “It comes to be for the sake of life, and exists for the sake of the good life.” Nevertheless, the individual has become increasingly dubious of the world around him, recognizing its innate facility of deception. Public … Read more

Deception in Hamlet

Deception and lies are one of the many actions that can put us in difficult situations which can lead to unfortunate consequences. Deception is also used in many fictional stories to add suspense to the storyline and really develop a plot that would keep readers coming back for more. In Hamlet, a play written by … Read more

Human Nature seen in Hamlet

In the novel Hamlet, characters depict many aspects of human nature. The most important of those is the impulse to seek out revenge. Hamlet, Laertes and Fortinbras lose their fathers and share a mutual purpose which is to seek revenge for the murder of their father. Hamlet and Laertes lose their father by an unnatural … Read more

Protagonists in Richard III and Hamlet

William Shakespeare’s plays explored the ideology behind human nature, good and evil, and the driving force behind the actions of the protagonist. Shakespeare’s novel plays Richard III, and Hamlet, reveals that royal birth breeds corruption. The protagonist of Richard III was Richard III, and the protagonist of Hamlet, was Hamlet. These plays, Hamlet and Richard … Read more

Hamlet and ‘The Great Chain of Being’

All throughout history, each culture adopted its own cultural hierarchy which dictates economic freedom, political power, and social status. These structures were set from birth and they have continued until modern times, there was no freedom to move up or down the ladder. In the sixteenth to seventeenth centuries, the “Great Chain of Being” ruled … Read more

Gertrude and Ophelia – similarities and connections

The similarities and connections between the only two female characters in Hamlet are striking. Tied together by their separate connections to Hamlet, Shakespeare brings Queen Gertrude and Ophelia closer together over the course of the play through many distinct hardships. Whether it be holding on to each other’s company for dear life, being used as … Read more

The Frailty of Human Nature (Hamlet/The Catcher in the Rye)

Growing up can be hard as people have to go through the journey of transitioning from a child to an adult and face tough decisions. Their self-consciousness heightens as they strive to fit into the perfect image of an adult and leave their childish ways. Therefore some adolescents tend to overanalyze every little event or … Read more

A comparison of Hamlet and Claudius

Relationships are very important today and they where very important in the past. Each relationship is different, some are good and some are bad. Good relationships can last a long time and sometimes forever but bad relationships can end very quickly. In some cases, relationships determine the direction life will take and they can change … Read more

Hamlet and revenge

Bidden by the ghost of his father to ‘revenge his foul and most unnatural murder’ (Shakespeare 1.5) by his brother, Claudius, Hamlet swears to hastily avenge his father’s death. He then spends the rest of the play failing to fulfill this promise, even when the guilt of his uncle is clear as day. However, it … Read more

The theme of disillusionment in Hamlet and Death of a Naturalist

The theme of disillusionment is apparent in ‘Hamlet’ Act 3 Scene 4 where Hamlet realises his mother has her own sexual needs and he struggles to comprehend the truth, as he once believed her to be pure and innocent. Similarly in Heaney’s poem, ‘Death of a Naturalist’, disillusionment is presented through Heaney exploring his childhood … Read more

Ophelia – Hamlet

As one of only two female characters in Hamlet it seems surprising that Ophelia is presented as unsubstantial and entirely passive. She is polarized by her love for Hamlet and sense of duty to her father, and these feeling bind her completely. She neither questions her father’s demands and instructions nor queries Hamlet’s supposed madness, … Read more

Shakespeare Challenges Classical Past in Sonnet 12 and Hamlet

 “How does Shakespeare challenge ideas of the classical past in his writings?”; How does Shakespeare challenge ideas of the classical past in his writings? In his intricately constructed Sonnet 12, Shakespeare weaves a metaphorical comparison between the natural elements of “Time” and the subsequent fragility of human life (Atkins, Shakespeare’s Sonnets, 173). In the … Read more

[Frankenstein & Hamlet]: Exploring Education, Growing a Relationship With God, and Seeking Life Purpose

 First off, Frankenstein brings in the aspect of education leading to a purposeful life, specifically when Victor focuses on the natural world. During his teenage years, Victor explains that he has a “longing to penetrate the secrets of nature” (Shelley 21). Victor shows in one of the first moments he wants his life to … Read more

About Hamlet

Imagine your friend or beloved says “Now whether it be bestial oblivion, or some craven scruple” (4.4.39-40). What would you think they are attempting to say? What mad language and absurdity are they talking about?

The patrician of Denmark and therefore the title character of this play is heartbroken, bitter and filled with emotion. Hamlet is commonly associated as an indecisive young man, thoughtful and reflective. However at alternative times liable to rash into impulsive acts resulting in his antic-disposition of madness.

In William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet, protagonist Hamlet conveys his wavering disposition into true madness within the manifestation through the allegories of Yorick’s skull and pirate ship, beside motifs of misogynism and ears and hearing.

Physical objects are unremarkably accustomed to represent thematic ideas, that embody Yorick’s skull. Hamlet discovers such a bone within the graveyard in the initial scene of Act five. As Hamlet discourses to the bone of the King’s former motley fool, he fixates on death’s inevitableness and therefore the disintegration of the body. He speaks to the Yorick’s bone saying

“That skull had a tongue in it and could sing once. How the knave jowls it to th’ground, as if ‘twere Cain’s jawbone, that did the first murder” (5.1.71-73).

Hamlet is expressing his fascination with the physical consequences of death and the way it is “Abhorred in [his] imagination” (5.1.171-172). This following symbol is a crucial image sent throughout this play as Hamlet oftentimes makes comments concerning each human’s body’s ultimate decay.

The Yorick’s skull signifies the acceptance of death and its inevitableness to Hamlet, heading to his wavering disposition of true madness. Symbolically staring into death itself and contemplates its connotation, this scene is a turning point to Hamlet’s acceptance and fixation with death, whereas before he would be connected to death and not acceptive of such fate for somebody (his father). The recurring deaths at intervals in his community has opened his mind to currently have associate enchantment towards death and therefore the decay of the human body.

Being sent off to the European nation attributable to his wavering disposition, Hamlet then proves his current rebellion to those of his authority. Once sorting out Claudius’ set up for Hamlet to be sentenced to death, Hamlet impetuously and volitionally jumps onto the pirate ship to rebel against Claudius, end the initial job that the ghost has sent him to do and gain safety from what would wait for him in England. During a letter to Claudius from Hamlet, he (Hamlet) writes

“High and shall beg leave to see your kingly eye when I shall, first asking your pardon, thereunto recount the occasion of my sudden and strange return” (4.7.42-46).

Pirates represent rebel/rebellion. Hamlet connects to the pirates. It shows that he does not need to be dominated by his step-father/uncle any longer. Hamlet may be a quiet and respectful man however since his wavering disposition into madness, his deterioration lead him to disrespect, rebel against his blood. Herewith his impulsive manner, it shows that Hamlet is prepared to prevent procrastination and kill Claudius once and for all.
Misogynism is that the dislike, contempt for, or constituted prejudice against women. Shattered by his mother’s call to marry Claudius shortly after his father’s death, Hamlet becomes misanthropical regarding women generally, showing a definite attraction with what he distinguishes to be a relationship between feminine gender and ethical corruption.

Hamlet begins the play very upset, “Frailty, thy name is woman” (1.2.146) he says in his initial soliloquy. He shows dishonor on his mother then extending it additionally to all or any women. His growing associate disposition wavering from an act to true madness is shown by his progression of losing respect towards women whom he loves. This motif of misogyny/hatred of women happens unpredictably throughout the play however it is a powerful constituent in Hamlet’s relationship with Ophelia and Gertrude. Hamlet looks in charge of his questionable ‘madness’ on women, significantly on what he sees as women’s habit of disguising themselves with makeup and feminine like behavior saying

“I have heard of your paintings well enough. God hath given you one face and you make yourselves another […] It hath made me mad” (3.1.142-146).

Though it is not bound to hunt the precise nature of his wavering disposition into true madness, his misogynistic disturbance insinuates his feelings regarding women plays a big role in it.

One facet of Hamlet’s exploration of wavering disposition into true madness is that the problem of achieving real information by the slipperiness of language. Words are accustomed to communicating ideas, however, they will even be accustomed to seeing reality, manipulate people and function devices in corrupt quests for power. Hamlet says

“And wants not buzzer to infect his ears with pestilent speeches of his father’s death, wherein, the necessity of matter beggar’d will nothing sick our person to arraign in ear and ear” (4.5.89-93).

The contaminated uses of words are painted by pictures of ears and hearing, the damaging impact of dishonesty on the health of Danmark. By distorting reality, Hamlet is confused, never knowing who may be a companion or attempting to govern him. By having this current wavering disposition, the madness, manipulation, lies and distorting the reality will play a job in his disposition. This slipperiness in language causes him to act resolute to attain the reality, whether it being causing a scene and disturbing/disrespecting those of the opposite gender.

Overall, in William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the protagonist Hamlet, a victim in his flaw, wavers between real madness and his antic disposition. He shows his thoughts into such a disposition within the use of symbols and motifs. Yorick’s bone, pirate ship beside misogynistic thoughts and ears and hearing from his style and therefore the truth behind his words.

Hamlet shows his character growth and development through allegories in several ways which regards the shape and look of his antic disposition.

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Key themes and topics for writing an essay on Hamlet:

  1. Themes of Revenge: Analyze how the theme of revenge is explored throughout the play, looking at how it affects the characters and the outcomes of their decisions.
  2. Character Analysis: Examine the character of Hamlet, looking at his growth throughout the play and how his actions and emotions evolve.
  3. Themes of Madness: Explore how madness is used to explain certain behavior in the play, looking at how this is used to further the plot and the characters’ motivations.
  4. Relationship Dynamics: Analyze the relationships between the characters in Hamlet, looking at how they affect the events of the play.
  5. Language and Structure: Examine the use of language and structure in the play, looking at how this contributes to the meaning and themes of the work.
  6. Symbolism: Analyze the symbols used throughout the play, looking at how they contribute to the narrative and themes of the work.
  7. Themes of Fate: Explore how the concept of fate is used throughout the play, looking at how it affects the characters and the events of the play.