Hey, it's Sarracini. Please begin posting your analysis by "commenting" below. Please be sure to make absolutely clear who you are when posting your analysis or your work cannot be graded.
Assignments will be marked out of 20:
10 marks for your analysis
10 marks for the clarity of your communication
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHamlet is a major contributor of lies and deception. He is constantly trying to get Claudius to confess about his father’s murder by tricking him. This is seen at the end of Act II where Hamlet says: “I’ll have these players/Play something like the murder of my father/Before mine uncle. I’ll observe his looks;/I’ll tent him to the quick. If ‘a do blench, I know my course”(2.2.581-585). Hamlet’s plan is clever, and when the play is preformed, the king storms out of the room. This starts to show Hamlet’s lying personality. This trick does not affect Hamlet’s fate, but it does affect Claudius’. Since Claudius storms out of the room, Hamlet has proof now that he really did kill his father. This foreshadows what Hamlet might do to Claudius the next time he sees him. Another quote where Hamlet lies is in Act III when he is talking with Ophelia. “You should not have believed me; for virtue cannot so/ inoculate our old stock but we shall relish it. I loved/you not”(3.1.117-119). Hamlet’s attitude toward the subject of love is very unlike him. The quote “I loved you not” seems to be one of the lies that triggers Ophelia’s madness. Due to this lie, and Hamlet’s antic disposition, along with her father’s death, Ophelia is found drowned in a creek. It is not known if she committed suicide, or if it was accidental, but Ophelia’s madness was partially triggered by lies.
ReplyDeleteLaertes’ character is killed by his own deceiving plan failing. He, with the help of the King, plans to: “And for that purpose, I’ll anoint my sword./I bought an unction of mountebank/so mortal that but dip a knife in it,/Where it draws blood,/no cataplasm so rare,/Collected from all simples that have virtue/Under the moon, can save the thing from death”(4.7.140-145). His plan fails due to his own fault. His sword is switched with Hamlet’s and when the fight begins, Hamlet slashes Laertes’ arm, allowing the poison on the sword to seep into Laertes’ bloodstream. Laertes’ lie ultimately got the best of him. This is a good example of what Shakespeare is trying to say about lying. When someone lies, it will eventually catch up to them, and they will have to face the consequences. This plan, along with the King’s plan, kills almost all of the important characters of the play.
Claudius is one of the most deceitful and dishonest characters in the play. His constant tricks ultimately lead him to his own death. In Act IV, Claudius’ plan is: “When in your motion you are hot and dry - /As make you bouts more violent to that end - /And that he calls for drink, I’ll have prepar’d him/A chalice for the nonce, whereon but sipping,/If he by chance escape your venom’d stuck,/Our purpose may hold there”(4.7.157-162). This plan ultimately builds up to the falling action of the play. Claudius’ plan to poison Hamlet with the chalice unfortunately fails, and kills another major character in the play: the Queen. After the death of the Queen, Laertes, the King, and finally Hamlet all die. This was the result of one deceiving plan to kill Hamlet. The deaths of all these characters were well deserved because they all contributed a lie.
-By Julieta G.
(First part of the assignment is either on top or at the bottom of this post, i don't know, this thing is confusing D: )
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteProcrastination
ReplyDeleteIn the book, Hamlet, by William Shakespeare, procrastination is one of the main themes. After Hamlet met the ghost of his father, he decided to take revenge for his father since he is murdered by his uncle. The fastest way to avenge King Claudius is to kill him, but Hamlet has procrastinated so many times, it leads to a tragedy which is the suicide of Ophelia, the deaths of mother Gertrude, Rosencrantz, Guildenstern, Polonius, Laretes and also himself. Hamlet procrastinated because of his morality which is also a thematic message from Shakespeare. Also, other reasons of Hamlet’s procrastination are showed in the following quotations.
-“How strange or odd some’er I bear myself--/As I perchance hereafter shall think meet/ To put an antic disposition on--…” (1.5.178-180)
In this quote, Hamlet told Horatio and Marcellus that he was going to pretend that he became crazy after they met the ghost. This is an evidence of his procrastination since there is no point of doing it. Hamlet can just kill Claudius to achieve his revenge, but he has chosen to act like crazy which didn’t seem effective for rest of the play; therefore, other than procrastinate, there is no point for him to put on an antic disposition.
-“I’ll have these players/Play something like the murder of my father/Before mine uncle. I’ll observe his looks;/I’ll tent him to the quick. If’a do blench, I know my course.”(2.2. 581-584)
This quote shows the scene of Hamlet asking those players to participate in an act which is similar to what the situation the ghost has told him, and if Claudius has any weird reactions after he sees the play, that means he is guilty. Hamlet did the procrastination again since his father has already told him that he is murdured by King Claudius, so if Hamlet wants to avenge, then what is the purpose of proofing that Claudius is the murderer? Even thought Hamlet wanted to ensure that Claudius did kill his father, but it caused the revenge procrastinated.
-“To be, or not to be, that is the question;/ Whether ‘tis nobler in the mind to suffer/ The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,/Or to take arms against a sea of troubles/ And by opposing end them.”(3.1.56-60)
This is a soliloquy from Hamlet, he is being hesitative that he should continue his revenge for his father or just suicide and end everything. His hesitation has led to a consequence of delaying his plan. If he has already proved that King Claudius is the one who killed his father, then he should be more confidence to take this revenge, but he still hesitated. Hamlet has already procrastinated his revenge by proving, he should not be hesitating, he should take action, so it shows that this is a procrastinated case.
ReplyDelete“And am I then reveng’d,/To take him in the purging of his soul,/ When he is fit and season’d for his passage? /No./ Up, sword, and know thou a more horrid hent:…My mothers stays. This physic but prolongs thy sickly days.” (3.3.84-96)
The situation of this quote is when Hamlet got a great chance of killing King Claudius while he was praying. Hamlet did the procrastination again; he was giving excuses to himself for not killing King Claudius which he could have use those time to kill him. Before, he has said that no one knew where they will go afterlife (check 3.1 . 56-90), then why is he not killing Claudius just because he thought Claudius might be sent to heaven after he died. What he has said in the last line is just making he feel better, the excuses he made up for himself can show everything did seem right, but actually it is just another procrastination of his revenge.
-“Hamlet, this deed, for thine especial safety--/Which we do tender, as we dearly grieve/ For that which thou hast done—must send thee hence/ With fiery quickness. Therefore prepare thyself./ The bark is ready, and the wind at help,/ Th’associates tend, and everything is bent/For England.”(4.3.s38-44)
This quote shows a scene of King Claudius hoping Hamlet can go to England because he was extremely mad that Hamlet has killed Polonius. In addition, he assumed the next victim would be him. This is an example of Hamlet’s procrastination since he has done a lot of things that were beyond Claudius’ acceptance, but it still led to a consequence of Claudius sending him to England, which delayed his plan of taking revenge.
by Henry Kwan
i've posted like 4 times, why does nothing stay!!??
ReplyDeleteMarsha M. Post 1/2
ReplyDeleteRevenge
In Hamlet, William Shakespeare’s interest in the theme of revenge is evident. Revenge is defined as inflicting injury on someone in return for what one has suffered for. Shakespeare uses the theme of revenge throughout Hamlet to explain the suffering of certain characters. He develops the theme by demonstrating what these characters will do to gain revenge and in turn bring peace to their suffering. In Hamlet, certain characters are used to emphasize this theme. He makes use of Hamlet and Laertes as a main focus to develop the theme of revenge. Both characters experience the loss of their fathers and demonstrate suffering because they were murdered. These characters want to avenge for their father’s death. As these two seek revenge for the murder of their father, Shakespeare makes it obvious what this pursuit does to Hamlet and Laertes. Each character has a different approach in gaining revenge and as they do this there is an evident change in their character and personality. The characters begin to become like the person they are trying to get revenge on. In turn, by the end of the play, both come to their death. Shakespeare does this to display the influence revenge has on a person and what it can make a person do. The thematic message that Shakespeare’s Hamlet makes about revenge is the pain that is intended to be inflicted on a person for revenge can backfire on the one wanting the revenge. Shakespeare is trying to prove that the consequences of the pursuit of revenge outweigh the initial intentions of the person. Instead of gaining peace for their suffering, Hamlet and Laertes gain more suffering which is consequently their death. William Shakespeare uses the theme of revenge to make it obvious that no reward comes from pursuing revenge.
Hamlet has suffered from a lot of emotional pain after the death of his father. When King Hamlet appears to Hamlet he explains to him that he was murdered by Claudius. The dead King wants Hamlet to get revenge for his death:
[Ghost]: Revenge his foul and most unnatural murder.
[Hamlet]: Murder!
[Ghost]: Murder most foul, as in the best it is,
But this most foul, strange and unnatural.
[Hamlet]: Haste me to know’t, that I with wings as swift
As meditation or the thoughts of love
May sweep to my revenge (1.5.25-31).
The intention for Hamlet pursuing the revenge for this father’s murder is to bring peace to his personal suffering and to his father’s soul. In this scene, Shakespeare introduces the theme of revenge. It is shown here that both Hamlet and his father are not at rest after his death. Since King Hamlet was murdered Hamlet must then kill Claudius to gain revenge. This is how Shakespeare shows how they want to inflict pain on the person who caused them pain. Shakespeare continues to develop the theme of revenge in the rest of the play through Hamlet’s approach to gaining revenge.
Hamlet is angered that his father was murdered by his uncle. He begins to devise a plan that will help him in the best way possible to get his revenge. Hamlet’s plan is to put on an antic disposition to bring deception to the people around him: “How strange or odd some’er I bear myself-/ As I perchance hereafter shall think meet/ To put an antic disposition on-“(1.5.178-180). Hamlet’s plan involves him changing his personality. This is where Shakespeare shows what revenge can do to a person. As the play moves forward from this point there is an evident change in Hamlet’s character. Others in the play notice this change and it is hard for them to tell if Hamlet is acting this way on purpose or if he really has been driven mad. What Shakespeare is trying to say about revenge here is that the pursuit of it can have a big impact on someone’s personality, character, and way of thinking.
Marsha M. Post 2/2
ReplyDeleteLaertes is another character that Shakespeare makes use of as he develops the theme of revenge in Hamlet. Laertes faces the loss of his father as well in the play. He finds out that his father was murdered and he is quick to want to find out who killed him:
How came he dead? I’ll not be juggled with.
To hell, allegiance! Vows, to the blackest devil!
Conscience and grace, to the profoundest pit!
I dare damnation. To this point I stand
That both the worlds I give to negligence.
Let come what comes, only I’ll be revenged
Most thoroughly for my father (4.5.129-135).
This is where Laertes begins his pursuit for revenge. Laertes is also troubled by his father’s murder. In order for him to find peace he feels as though he must kill the man who killed his father. Again, Shakespeare reintroduces the theme of revenge with Laertes. By Shakespeare doing this he his trying to emphasis the fact of why revenge is sought out. He wants to reintroduce the idea of inflicting pain on the person who first caused them their suffering. This scene is where Shakespeare brings a bigger development to the theme of revenge and the message he is trying to make.
To further the theme, Laertes’ plan and approach to gain revenge is done differently than Hamlet’s. Laertes approaches his revenge head on. His main objective is to kill the man who killed his father. When he finds out that it was Hamlet be becomes furious:
I’m lost in it, my lord. But let him come.
It warms the very sickness in my heart
That I shall live and tell him to his teeth,
“Thus diest thou” (4.7.54-57)
His character and personality change as well. He becomes ambitious with the plan of getting his revenge. Shakespeare again shows what revenge can do to a person. Revenge gives a person the drive to bring harm to others. Revenge can also change a person into someone they are not. In developing the theme of revenge in this point in the play, Shakespeare is making it obvious what impact the drive for revenge has on a person. He has done this twice in the play to emphasis this idea.
To bring Shakespeare’s development of the theme of revenge to an end, Hamlet and Laertes face their death:
[Laertes]: It is here, Hamlet. Hamlet, thou art slain.
No medicine in the world can do thee good;
In thee there is not half an hour’s life (5.2.307-309).
Mine and my father’s death come not upon thee
Nor thine on me.
[Hamlet]: Heaven make thee free of it. I follow thee.
I am dead, Horatio (5.2.323-326).
Both Hamlet and Laertes had their different approaches to carrying out their plan of revenge. Either way, they both ended up dead by the time they got their revenge. Their death explains what Shakespeare’s message about revenge is. As is evident from the development of this theme, revenge is often perused to end someone’s suffering. But as a result they suffered more. Revenge can change a person for it becomes their main focus. The intentions made for someone to gain revenge may seem to be rewarding yet the consequences outweigh these intentions. William Shakespeare makes it obvious that the only reward one can gain from revenge for someone’s life is the loss of their own.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHIND LAWRENCE
ReplyDeleteMeaning of existence
The theme “the meaning of existence” is one of the major themes in the play Hamlet. It starts out by being a strong thought in the mind of the main character Hamlet; when he is very depressed and is thinking of suicide because there are no uses of this world. Hamlet digs a little deeper and start thinking about what would happen after death and he becomes afraid because of the afterlife. Nearly at the end of the play Hamlet discovers that there is no meaning of existence because in the end we will all end up in the same place which is underneath the soil, he realizes that no matter how important you are on this earth, how high or low your status is; it does not matter because our end is going to be the same.
This theme is very powerful because Shakespeare is trying to deliver a message: that there is no real meaning for existence and the uses of this world are not profitable. First Hamlet has the desire to suicide but cannot because it is considered a sin and then he has that desire later on but is afraid of what could happen to him after. The main question from this theme is “why are we here?” and “what is the meaning of it all?”
[1.2.14.129-137] “Oh that this too too sullied flesh would melt, Thaw and resolve itself into a dew, or that the everlasting had not fix’d his canon ‘gainst self-slaughter. O God! God! How weary, stale, flat, and unprofitable seem to me all the uses of this world! Fie on’t, ah fie, ‘tis an unweeded garden that grows to seed; things rank and gross in nature posses it merely.” This is young prince Hamlets first soliloquy, it is the first time we get to see hamlets true feelings about everything happening around him from his father’s death and his mother marrying his uncle who is becoming king. The quote reveals Hamlets suicidal character; he is very depressed and angry of the world because it is very unprofitable. The pressure that is put on Hamlet is a lot for him to take in, He doesn’t see any meaning why he exists and the only thing stopping him is that suicide is considered a sin. This quote is relevant to the theme of existence because Shakespeare shows that the world is corrupt and worthless and the people in it are foul and careless human beings.
( part 1 )
ReplyDeleteIn Hamlet, madness is one of the major themes, which have been clearly brought out several times by William Shakespeare throughout the tragedy. Many characters go into madness because of the loss of their love. This brings us a question in our mind: Is Hamlet’s madness real or feigned? Since Hamlet was told that his father was actually murdered by his uncle Claudius, he forced himself to act insane in order to make everyone thinks that he is actually “crazy”. This antic disposition acts as a smoke screen, which allows Hamlet to hide his true self from others. As a result, nobody, especially King Claudius, would concern about what he said and even suspect that he knows the truth of his father’s death. In the same time, this also allows him to plan for his revenge to kill the King. However, further in the play, we may be confused by Hamlet’s speech or action. We may think that he has gone complete insane because of his extreme behaviors and the pressures of committing the revenge. Besides, the idea of madness is also applied to a few other characters, such as Ophelia and Laertes. Shakespeare connects the image of madness to the idea of revenge throughout the play with a variety of characters, who experience in either real or feigned madness because of losing their love. By the comparison between Hamlet’s feigned madness and the others’ real madness, it brings us a message that revenge would eventually lead us into a real madness and it would further result into a tragedy.
“How strange or odd some’er I bear myself – As I perchance hereafter shall think meet To put an antic disposition on.” (I.V.178-180)
At the beginning of the play, when Hamlet notices that his uncle has betrayed his father and murdered him, he said this quote to Horatio, who is his only friend to trust. Since Hamlet is told to avenge for his father, he decides to hold his tongue and keep all his feelings and emotions inside his heart until the revenge is completely done. He plans to act crazy as he does not want anybody to know what he is thinking or the planning for the revenge, and the fact that he knows the truth of his father’s death. He also commands Horatio and Marcellus not to mention anything related to his madness to anyone. He pretends he is mad in front of the public so that they would think he has actually gone “crazy” so they would not care about what he said. This antic disposition also allows him to set a smoke screen in the play so then he could find out whether or not the King is guilty. This could let Hamlet go with his revenge plan easily.
( part 2 )
ReplyDelete“Fell into a sadness, then into a fast, Thence to a watch, thence into a weakness, thence to a lightness, and, by this declension, Into the madness wherein now he raves And all we mourn for.” (II.II.147-151)
As the King and the Queen were concerned about Hamlet, Polonius (the King’s counselor) came and told them that he had found out the reason of Hamlet’s madness from his observation, which he assumed that he went mad because of the grief and the ignorance from Ophelia. According to the quote, this kind of grief and sorrow usually causes sadness, which would eventually lead to madness through several stages of grief. This smoke screen, successfully confuses people and make them think that he is actually mad. Polonius even pretended he was smart enough to tell the King and Queen what was exactly on Hamlet’s mind. This feigned madness, again, makes Hamlet’s revenge plan goes more easily as no one has yet known anything about his plan, as well as his mind.
“This the very coinage of your brain. This bodiless creation ecstasy Is very cunning in.”
“Ecstasy? My pulse as yours doth temperately keep time And makes as healthful music. It is not madness That I have uttered.” (III.IV.139-144)
By the time Hamlet visited his mother, the spy Polonius was killed accidentally by Hamlet during the arguments between him and his mother, as he thought Polonius was the King whom was hiding behind. At this time, Hamlet has started losing his mind because of this accident, he continued scoring and complaining about his mother’s incest. When the dead king’s aspiration appeared, Hamlet has started talking to it while the queen thought Hamlet was mad as he was the only person who can actually see the ghost. However, Hamlet did not admit about the madness. Instead he clarified himself by saying “Make you to ravel all this matter out: That I essentially am not in madness But mad in craft.” (III.IV.190-192) He clarified himself of what he has done, or appeared to others, was feigned, or something he intentionally acted out to confuse others. Apparently, his mind has been messed up because of the grief to his father, the killing of Polonius in accident, and the stresses from the revenge plan, which makes him sort of getting into a real madness as he was talking crazy and being disrespectful to his mother.
( part 3 )
ReplyDelete“By heaven, thy madness shall be paid with weight Till our scale turn the beam. O rose of May” (IV.V.155-156)
This quote clearly states that Ophelia has already gone crazy. One of the causes was the frustrated love with Hamlet. Since her father and Laertes both advised her to stay away from Hamlet, she had to obey them, and she decided not to see him or send him any letters in order to stay away from him. This causes her the first loss of Hamlet’s love. The other cause that leads to Ophelia’s madness was the death of her father, whom was killed by her love Hamlet. For these reasons, the two great losses of her two loved, Ophelia has gone into complete madness. In the same time, Laertes is a bit mad and crazy because of the loss of his father and the mental illness of his sister. From the quote, we can see that Laertes’ madness has blinded his eyes and made him decided to avenge for them by killing Hamlet. Ophelia’s and Laertes’ madness has developed a contrast with Hamlet’s feigned insanity to show the idea of madness, either in real or fake, could both result in revenge and death.
“This presence knows, and you must needs have heard, How I am punish’d with a sore distraction. What I have done That might your nature, honour, and exception Roughly awake, I here proclaim was madness…...If’t be so, Hamlet is of the faction that is wrong’d; His madness is poor Hamlet’s enemy.” (V.II.212-223)
In this quote, Hamlet apologized to Laertes for his “madness” right before the duel begins. He clarifies that it was not his fault of being insane, as it was all due to his mental illness. He was trying to pretend that he was innocent to this cause. In fact, we all know that he is still acting “mad” in order to not let anybody to know about the plan and the fact that he knows the truth of his father’s death. Again, this feigned madness allows him to proceed his revenge easily since people see him as a crazy person so they would not take what he said in concern.
by Aaron Leung
Janice Cheung’s Assignment
ReplyDeleteTheme: REVENGE :O
In the play Hamlet, Shakespeare develops the theme of revenge. This theme is woven in and throughout the entire course of the play. Characters, such as Hamlet and Laertes help in the development of the theme revenge, through their actions and thoughts. Shakespeare emphasizes revenge as a never ending cycle that always leads to the corrupt state of the person, both mentally and morally. The characters in the play find it necessary to “release” their rage and anger upon one another, thus resulting in a “chain-reaction” or a never-ending cycle of revenge. In the beginning of the play, the characters are introduced as very calm and practical thinkers, where reason would come before irrationality. When the characters decide to act upon their revenge, a radical shift can be seen taking place. The characters do not think practically about what they are about to take part in, but rather they focus on the “satisfaction” they will feel when revenge has been attained. This shows how revenge corrupts the minds of the characters and leads them to think illogically. The characters in the play find themselves torn between the balance of what is morally right and what they desire.
Quote 1:
Now, sir, young Fortinbras,
Of unimprovèd mettle hot and full,
Hath in the skirts of Norway here and there
Sharked up a list of lawless resolutes,
For food and diet, to some enterprise
That hath a stomach in ’t, which is no other—
As it doth well appear unto our state—
But to recover of us, by strong hand
And terms compulsatory those forsaid lands
So by his father lost.
[Act 1 Scene 1, Line 98-107]
This quote is spoken by Horatio while on night guard with Barnardo and Marcellus. This quote describes how young Fortinbras is rumoured to be recruiting troops in order to seize back the land lost by his father in battle. This section not only foreshadows what will occur in the play, but also indicates young Fortinbras’s desire for revenge. From this, we can lead to the conclusion that young Fortinbras is plotting for revenge against the kingdom of Denmark. In the contract made between King Fortinbras and King Hamlet, it indicated that the winner would receive a promised portion of land. In the battle, King Hamlet won fair and square, yet young Fortinbras still wants revenge and to regain the property lost. This demonstrates how young Fortinbras becomes corrupt in his mind, where he puts his desires before rationality. The ideal moral and ethical person would not make the decision to take back what was lost in a fair battle. Yet young Fortinbras, in placing his desire for revenge before reasoning, leads to the corrupt state of his mind.
Janice Cheung’s Assignment
ReplyDeleteTheme: REVENGE :O
PART 2
Quote 2:
Ghost
Revenge his foul and most unnatural murder.
Hamlet
Murder!
Ghost
Murder must foul, as in the best it is,
But this most foul, strange and unnatural.
Hamlet
Haste me to know’t, that I with wings as swift
As meditation or the thoughts of love
May sweep to my revenge.
[Act 1 Scene 5, Line 25-31]
This quote takes place during the Ghost and Hamlet’s encounter. The Ghost is demanding Hamlet to get revenge on Claudius for him. This quote demonstrates how revenge is a never-ending cycle, as each character feels compelled to get revenge on another. Hamlet exaggerates the speed at which he will execute his revenge to the Ghost. In addition, this conversation between the Ghost and Hamlet, instigates Hamlet’s desire/motivation to get revenge. It is the prime initiating factor for Hamlet, in which he begins to plot his revenge on Claudius. Not only this, but it is also the prime initiating factor in which Hamlet starts to become obsessive for revenge. Revenge starts to corrupt Hamlet’s mind, as he begins to make irrational decisions in order to carry out his plan. Throughout the course of the play, Hamlet puts on an antic disposition in order to distract the king of his true intentions. Whether this is an effective method or not, the idea of putting on an antic disposition indicates the level of sanity in Hamlet’s mind. This illustrates how the idea of getting revenge on Claudius disrupts Hamlet’s mental state and his level of sanity.
Quote 3:
Queen
What wilt thou do? Thou wilt not murder me?
Help, ho!
Polonius
[Behind the arras] O, I am slain.
Queen
O me, what hast thou done?
Hamlet
Nay, I know not.
Is it the king?
Lifts up the arras and discovers Polonius, dead
Queen
O what a rash and bloody deed is this!
[Act 3 Scene 4, Line 20-28]
In this quote, Hamlet has just slain Polonius, thinking that it was Claudius. Hamlet pretends that he is stabbing a rat in order to get away with this crime. Hamlet, introduced in the beginning of the play, is a very thorough and practical thinker. All of his decisions are carefully calculated and laid out before he actually executes them. As seen in this part of the play, Hamlet has become obsessive with getting revenge and starts acting impulsively and irrationally. Hamlet, blinded with revenge begins to stab Polonius behind the arras. This demonstrates Hamlet’s state of mind as he begins to lose control. His killing of Polonius was made on an impulsive decision. Hamlet’s level of mentality is unstable, as the line between feigning madness and real madness is blurred. Not only this, but the slaying of Polonius leads to the initiation of Laertes’s revenge. This meaning that because of Hamlet’s carelessness in his chase for revenge, it has led to Laertes’s chase for revenge as well. This demonstrates how revenge in this play becomes a never-ending cycle that is passed on from one character to another.
Janice Cheung’s Assignment
ReplyDeleteTheme: REVENGE :O
PART 3
Quote 4:
To this point I stand,
That both the worlds I give to negligence,
Let come what comes, only I’ll be reveng’d
Most thoroughly for my father.
[Act 4 Scene 5, Line 132-135]
This quote is spoken by Laertes in his conversation with Claudius. Laertes has just found out that his father was killed and his sister gone insane. In the beginning of the play, Laertes is presented as well educated and very gentlemanly-like. His opinions and concerns are reserved and he holds back things that he knows for only himself and his relatives. In this part of the play, Laertes can be seen as someone on the verge of sanity and seems to be breaking apart. His once gentleman-like demeanour is gone, and now replaced with someone who seems to be insane and mad. This change in Laertes is due to the fact that Ophelia has gone mad, and partly due to the sudden death of his father. Both of these factors tie into revenge. Laertes has gone mad in order to get revenge on Hamlet. This demonstrates that even the most reserved characters can become corrupted due to revenge.
Quote 5:
I am satisfied in nature,
Whose motive in this case should stir me most
To my revenge; but in terms of honour
I stand aloof,
[Act 5 Scene 2, Line 228-231]
This quote was spoken by Laertes right before he fences with Hamlet. Hamlet has just offered an apology to Laertes before their duel. In this quote, by Laertes saying that he is “satisfied in nature”, he means that Hamlet’s apology has been accepted and that it calms his anger for killing his father, Polonius. Laertes also adds that in the name of his honour, he will still take revenge. He is lying about his feelings and acceptance of apology and proceeds to take a dishonourable revenge. Laertes plans to kill Hamlet even after he claims to have “accepted” Hamlet’s apology. In the beginning of the play, Laertes was seen as a respectable and seemingly honest man in society. By the end of the play, we see Laertes as a lying and sneaky person. Laertes has gone insane and completely unreasonable in his thought process. In other words, he is in a mental breakdown where he too, seems to be on the verge of sanity. Due to the fact that Laertes is now obsessed with attaining revenge, his mind becomes corrupt and his morals become unsound.
Leon Kim
ReplyDeleteTheme: The Meaning of Existence
Introduction: Throughout the play Hamlet, the theme of the meaning of existence is brought up frequently by Shakespeare. However Shakespeare implies that the existence of life is meaningless without a purpose or goal that a person wishes to achieve or live for. The thoughts and tendencies of suicide are brought up by several characters when all the positive aspects of their lives are taken away from them. However through the ideal of existence being meaningless, Shakespeare also brings up the question of what is the mystery of the afterlife. Hamlet himself brings the idea of Existentialism in some of his soliloquies however there is still a genuine fear for the wrath of God, and therefore being condemned to hell. Since the world of the dead is unknown by the world of the living, Shakespeare tries to implement what a person will imagine what death will be like to each individual. Lastly Shakespeare implies that as life continues towards death; religious ideals no longer exist between heaven and hell as Hamlet’s ideas about death begin to change.
Quotation Explanations
Quotation 1: Act I, scene ii (lines 129-159)
O that this too too sullied flesh would melt,/Thaw and resolve itself into a dew,/Or that the Everlasting had not fix'd/His canon 'gainst self-slaughter. O God! God!/ How weary, stale, flat, and unprofitable/Seem to me all the uses of this world!/Fie on't, ah fie, 'tis an unweeded garden/That grows to seed; things rank and gross in nature/Possess it merely. That it should come to this!/But two months dead-nay, not so much, not two-/so excellent a king, that was to this/Hyperion to a satyr, so loving to my mother/That he might not beteem the winds of heaven/Visit her face too roughly. Heaven and earth,/Must I remember? Why,she would hang on him/As if increase of appetite had grown/By what it fed on; and yet within a month-/Let me not think on't-Frailty, thy name is woman-/A little month, or ere those shoes were old/With which she follow'd my poor father's body,/Like Niobe,all tears-why,shy-/O God, a beast that wants discourse of reason/Would have mourn'd longer-married with my uncle,/My father's brother-but no more like my father/Than I to Hercules. Within a month,/Ere yet the salt of most unrighteous tears/Had left the flushing in her galled eyes,/She married-O most wicked speed! To post/ With such dexterity to incestuous sheets!/It is not, nor it cannot come to good./But break, my heart, for I must hold my tongue.
In this soliloquy spoken by Hamlet, Shakespeare is trying to explain that in the theme of the meaning of existence, life is meaningless without a purpose. From this soliloquy we learn that Hamlet is upset with his mother’s lack of grievance for the death of his father as well as being unable to return to school. From all these negative outcomes on his life and no purpose to continue his education, Hamlet contemplates the idea of suicide. However due to the fear of the unknown afterlife except the idea of eternal damnation in Hell through religious beliefs Hamlet is unable to consider suicide properly. Through this quotation, Shakespeare continues to give the idea that meaning of existence is worthless and the only suitable alternative method is death. In the last line where Hamlet states "But break, my heart, for I must hold my tongue." Hamlet could be explaining that he must hide his ideas of not only the sadness towards his mother but also his suicidal ideals.
Quotation 2: Act II, scene ii (lines 291-304)
ReplyDelete...I have of late,but wherefore i know not, lost/all my mirth, forgone all customs of exercises; and/indeed it goes so heavily with my disposition that this/goodly frame the earth seems to me a sterile/promontory, this most excellent canopy the air, look/you, this brave o'erhanging firmament, this majestical/roof fretted with golden fire, why, it appeareth nothing/to me but a foul and pestilent congregation of vapours./What a piece of work is a man, how noble in reason, how/infinite in faculties, in form and moving how express/and admirable, in action how like an angel, in/ apprehension how like a god: the beauty of the world,/the paragon of animals- and yet to me, what is this/quintessence of dust?...
In these lines, Hamlet explains his distress of his father’s death to both Rosencrantz and Guildenstern and his distress over the human race. From this quotation, Shakespeare brings forth the idea of Existentialism in which that there is no afterlife and no higher being that control humans. Through rhetorical devices, Hamlet explains all the vanities of mankind, yet in the end after death mankind is only dust and nothing greater physically and spiritually. Shakespeare uses anticlimax effectively to show mankind’s spiritual greatness as being noble, angelic actions and understanding of a god, however in the end humans are only “quintessence of dust”. Shakespeare uses this anticlimax to explain his mystery of the afterlife through Existentialism in which that despite all of our great achievements through morals and intellect displaying our god-like abilities, we are only mortal and will die and disappear from the world. Also Shakespeare implies that mankind is better through our apprehension of different situations to accomplish goals instead of mankind’s ability to react to a situation. This can be evidently seen within Hamlet since he delays for a long period of time to decide a proper time to murder Claudius and have revenge for his father.
Quotation 3: Act III, scene i (lines 56-90)
ReplyDeleteTo be, or not to be, that is the question:/Whether 'tis nobler in mind to suffer/The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,/Or to take arms against a sea of troubles/And by opposing end them. To die-to sleep,/No more; and by a sleep to say we end/ The heart-ache and the thousand natural shocks/That flesh is heir to: 'tis a consummation/Devoutly to be wish'd. To die,to sleep;/To sleep, perchance to dream-ay, there's the rub:/For in that sleep of death what dreams may come,/When we have shuffled off this mortal coil,/Must give us pause-there's the respect/That makes calamity of so long life./For who would bear the whips and scorns of time,/Th'oppressor's wrong the proud man's contumely,/The pangs of dispriz'd love, the law's delay,/ The insolence of office, and the spurns/ That patient merit of th'unworthy takes,/When he himself makes his quietus make/With a bare bodkin? Who would fardels bear,/To grunt and sweat under a weary life,/But that the dread of something after death,/The undiscover'd country, from whose bourn/No traveller returns, puzzles the will,/And makes us rather bear those ills we have/Than fly to others that we know not of?/Thus conscience does make cowards of us all,/And thus the native hue of resolution/Is sicklied o'er with the pale cast of thought,/And enterprises of great pitch and moment/With this regard their currents turn awry/And lose the name of action. Soft you now,/The fair Ophelia! Nymph, in they orisons/Be all my sins remember'd.
From this quotation, Shakespeare truly explains the theme of existence through the ramification of committing suicide to ends one’s suffering. Shakespeare continues to entice the idea that life is meaningless if a person only continues to be tortured and tormented with no possibility of happiness. From this theme of life be meaningless without a purpose to live on, Shakespeare tries to bring forth the justification of suicide in a negative society. However from this justification of suicide also includes the uncertainty of the afterlife in which within the play, the idea of if a person lives a miserable life in the living; they might live a life that is even worse after death. Hamlet explains all about his personal problems from unrequited loves to political oppressions and other problems and considers if suicide is the correct answer to all of his depression and meaningless life. From this fear of the unknown afterlife, Shakespeare implies that this leads to moral sensitivities that make actions impossible to perform. From this point onwards the idea of Existentialism is truly brought forth since Hamlet no longer believes that religion will help him with his revenge. Hamlet’s passionate yet hesitant nature compels him alongside his logical knowledge and wisdom to find what is the true solution to his misery and depression. Hamlet from this point onwards believes that no divine power will help him in reaching his goal and that only logic and being truly cunning will help him succeed with his revenge.
Quotation 4: Act IV, scene iii (lines 19-24)
ReplyDeleteNot where he eats, but where 'a is eaten. A certain/convocation of worms are e'en at him.Your/worm is your only emperor for diet: we fat all creatures/else to fat us, and we fat ourselves for maggots.Your fat/king and your lean beggar is but variable service-two/dishes, but to one table. That's the end.
This quotation, Shakespeare continues to imply the ideas of Existentialism for the mysteries of the afterlife, in that there is no heaven or hell but just the earth itself. Hamlet in this quotation is implying that after death, the only thing happens for humans are to feed the maggots and an endless food cycle. Shakespeare drastically changes the ideas that Hamlet has for death, initially from the possibility of eternal damnation and ultimately into humans becoming dust. This quotation is also a historical reference to the Diet of Worms during the protestant reformation in 1521 led by Martin Luther in which religious ideals were changed as Catholic ideals and actions were frowned upon. This change of ideal can be applied within the context of the afterlife as well since Shakespeare is implying that no matter what status a person is in life, he/she will be ultimately be the same and a beggar in death. This connects with the meaning of existence in which that life is meaningless because ultimately in death through the perspective of Existentialism no one will be different, no matter how hard a person will try to achieve a better life or status.
Caitlyn
ReplyDeleteTheme: Corruption
Intro: Throughout Shakespeare’s Hamlet, corruption is a topic that grows into an increasingly complex theme. Many of the characters consistently abuse their rank and position to gain power, affection or seek revenge in a fraudulent and dishonest manner. They act in immoral ways to further their personal agenda often accepting bribes to fulfill the intentions of others.
Shakespeare’s theme of corruption has many references to Original Sin. Humans, according to Shakespeare, are fallen creatures from birth, victims of the devil’s trickery as described in Genesis. Allusions or direct references to Adam, the Garden of Eden, Cain, Abel and Original Sin occur throughout the play.
Shakespeare uses images of physical decay to reify corruption, for example the un-weeded garden in Hamlet’s first soliloquy. He consistently shows how easily the contagion of corruption is spread and how quickly so many are affected. Characters identify with the decaying of the Denmark around them through corruption. Even the minor character such as Marcellus recognizes this. “Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.” (1.4.90.) Manifested throughout, corruption is a strong theme with inherent powerful messaging.
Caitlyn:
ReplyDeleteQuotes and Analysis:
1. “Tis an unweeded garden / that grows to seed. Things rank and gross in nature / Possess it merely.” Hamlet 1.2.135-137
This quote taken from the beginning of the play demonstrates how, even before Hamlet knew the truth behind his father’s death, that Denmark is quite corrupt. The image of weeds is used to show that in the decaying world around him, all Hamlet can see is evil and sin. Shakespeare also uses this analogy of weeds to establish how, just like weeds, who rapidly take over, killing all the other plants around them, corruption grows and spreads, choking out all the honesty around it. What started from Claudius, killing his brother for power and love, lead to the death of himself, his queen, his nephew, his magistrate's family, and two loyal subjects. Hamlet speaks of how Denmark is in need of someone to weed it from all its evil and corruption. By stating that it “grows to seed” he is saying how corruption is only there to takeover and “plant its seed” throughout the country. Hamlet is the story of how corruption can add up, and ruin the lives of all it touches, whether guilty or innocent.
This idea is mirrored when Laertes is giving his sister Ophelia advice in Act One, Scene Three. “The canker galls the infants of the spring / Too oft before their buttons be disclosed, / And, in the morn and liquid dew of youth, / Contagious blastments are most imminent.” (1.3.39-42) The message Laertes has tries to tell his sister is rather simple compared to the language used to convey his message. He is simply asking Ophelia not to lose her virginity to Hamlet. The image of the canker is important to the idea of decay. A cankerworm is known to destroy young buds of flowers and preventing it from blossoming. Inevitably, all flowers eventually wither away and die, but the canker is the contagious blastment, which quickens the process of corruption and decay. In other words, the canker makes the flowers die young and early; before they have even had a chance to truly live. Just as in Hamlet, there is the “cankerworm” (Claudius) who is there to speed up the downfall of Denmark.
2. “The dram of evil / Doth all the noble substance of a doubt / To his own scandal” Hamlet 1.4.36-38
ReplyDeleteHamlet says this right before he meets with the ghost of his father. He is speaking with Horatio and Marcellus. Hamlet is trying to say that all it takes is ne person’s bad character to become a contagion, contaminating all those around, like a disease. Corruption spreads so fast, and all are affected by it. Like temptation, corruption is almost inevitable in this situation. In the same way, the king and his corrupt nature infects his entire kingdom and all of those around him. This also ties back to corruption being like weeds, untamed, overpowering, and unstoppable. Just as the weeds cannot be stopped so easily from growing all over the country, it only takes one person to infect the entire community with evil and dishonesty.
3. “Anything but to th’ purpose. You were sent for, and / there is a kind of confession in your looks, which your / modesties have not craft enough to colour. I know the / good king and queen have sent for you.” Hamlet 2.2.274-278
By this point in the scene, Hamlet has realized that even his past friends can easily be swayed against him. Both Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are corrupt in the sense that they will accept bribes from Claudius and Gertrude to spy on Hamlet. This seemingly innocent espionage does not appear to be a major occurrence of corruption, however, this leads to them heading off to England with Hamlet death sentence to be carried out in at their destination. Claudius has corrupted these two characters, once good friends of Hamlet; they are now willing to betray him and attempt to lead him to his death. When Hamlet learns of the plan he quickly turns the tables on the two by sneakily used his late father's signet ring to create a new letter instructing their executions instead of his so when they arrive in England, the two traitors are executed instead of Hamlet. Leading back to the overall theme of corruption, this quote supports the thought that Claudius is the center of all corruption and evil, and those in power can easily bribe people.
4. “O, my offence is rank, it smells to heaven; / It hath the primal eldest curse upon ’t, / A brother’s murder.” Claudius, 3.3.42-44
ReplyDeleteJust as in Genesis when Cain killed Abel out of jealousy, Claudius’ jealousy of his brother’s power and love motivated his desire to kill Hamlet. By saying “It hath the primal eldest curse upon ’t” Claudius realizes his Cain-like crime as one of the first “curses”; a brothers murder due to jealousy. This links back to the thought of Genesis being associated with all that is corrupt in the play. As if mimicking Genesis, corruption has followed the same path, imitating mankind’s original sins and downfalls. Claudius almost feels bad for what he has done, but at the same time he has gained to much due to his corruption and is not willing to give it all away so he is no longer corrupt.
5. “Why, as a woodcock to mine own springe, Osric; / I am justly kill'd with mine own treachery.” Laertes, 5.2.296-297
At this moment, Laertes becomes aware of just how corrupt he, as well as those around him, have become. He realizes that he has inadvertently caused his own death through this unnecessary corruption that he has fallen victim to. Now however it is too late, and after he dies, the rest of the corrupted characters do within the next minutes, leaving only the pure and morally strongest. The storm of corruption has finally passed over, and only the morally strongest survived, which is not many. Corruption as a theme is evident here since even the people themselves realize how easily they can be bribed. Claudius, so seek revenge by killing Hamlet egged on Laertes. The innocent man was acting in the heat of the moment, hence corrupting himself.
6. “'Tis given out that, sleeping in my orchard, / A serpent stung me." Ghost (1.5.42-43) "The serpent that did sting they father's life/now wears his crown." Ghost (1.5.46-47)
ReplyDeleteAgain this is a reference to the Garden of Eden and Original Sin. The Ghost of King Hamlet is saying that Claudius is a serpent, evil, deceitful, and corrupted, just as the snake that tempted Eve was. This is the “Original Sin” of the play as well, since it is the action that sparked the rest of the corruption throughout the play. If Claudius had never killed his brother they would still all be living seemingly happy lives, just as if Eve had not fallen to temptation and taken the apple, her and Adam would still be living in peace and harmony, not worrying about anything. This supports the idea that all of the corruption branches from the Garden of Eden, and that Shakespeare uses this analogy to support his theme of corruption and decay.
Quotation 5: Act V, scene i (lines 191-202)
ReplyDeleteNo, faith, not a jot, but to follow him thither with/modesty enough, and likelihood to lead it. Alexander/died, Alexander was buried, Alexander returneth to/dust, the dust is earth, of earth we make loam, and why/ of that loam whereto he was converted might they not/ stop a beer-barrel?/ Imperious Caesar, dead and turn'd to clay,/ Might stop a hole to keep the wind away./O that that earth which kept the world in awe/Should patch a wall t'expel the winter's flaw./But soft, but soft awhile. Here comes the king,/The queen, the courtiers.
Through this quotation, Shakespeare truly uses the philosophy of Existentialism for the idea of what is the conclusion of a person’s life after death; Shakespeare implies that nothing will remain but the earth. By using famous emperors like Julius Caesar and Alexander the Great, Shakespeare continues to state that no matter what previous accomplishments that a person or a group of people have done in death everybody is equal. Since Shakespeare is implying that there is no greater glory after death, the only use of mankind after death is to be used for covering up wholes in unstable structures. Also within this quotation also reflects on the other theme in which that the meaning of existence is ultimately meaningless because ultimately everyone will die and return to the earth as dust. This quotation also shows Shakespeare’s interest with the physicality of death through Hamlet with images of dust as well as worms in the previous scenes of the play. Through these several quotations it shows Shakespeare’s opinion about both the meaning of existence and mysteries of the afterlife, it changes throughout the play from a very religious view into a more idealistic and logical way of thinking.
Merit K (part 1)
ReplyDeleteIntroduction
In the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare, the idea of madness is prominent in two characters, prince Hamlet and Ophelia. While Ophelia's mad mental state is clearly caused by the circumstances that occur to her, such as Hamlet's actions towards her and the death of her father by her old love, Hamlet's madness is far more ambiguous. At the beginning of the play, Hamlet states that he will put on an "antic disposition". While its debatable whether or not he actually does go mad, his actions in parts later on in the play show more evidence towards the theory that he is acting mad. Hamlet's emotions are heightened due to his father's death and sometimes because of that some of his words and actions can be mistaken for madness. Shakespeare uses madness as a tool of affecting others. Hamlet's "antic disposition" caused other characters in the play to be uneasy, such as his mother and Claudius, and even lead to the madness of another, Ophelia. Shakespeare is trying to show how any person suffering from a mental illness, or acting in a way outside of the societal norm, will have an impact on their surrounding environment. Humans are drawn to the weird, the abnormal, and Shakespeare uses this to show how one can get distracted by this rather than focus on more important events. Madness becomes a source of major concern for other and thereby feigned madness can be used as a tool of manipulation if one knows precisely what their actions will illicit in others as a response. Shakespeare also utilizes the idea of madness to demonstrate gender superiority. Very early in the play, Hamlet states "frailty, thy name is woman". Seeing as how Hamlet views women to be the weaker, less superior gender, which is consistent with the context of the play and Shakespeare's time period, the woman, Ophelia, actually suffers from a mental breakdown and becomes mad. She is under constant pressure from her brother and father, who use her as a tool. Furthermore, her madness leads her to take her own life, an action of weakness and against God’s laws. Hamlet, however, is more superior to her and is not affected by any mental illness but is instead faking it. He contemplates the idea of suicide but he never actually commits it, knowing that it is an unforgivable sin by God, and thereby showing greater strength in the face of adversity. Shakespeare uses true and feigned madness to demonstrate the societal limitations present in the context of the story and the Elizabethan Era. In true madness, one loses their wit and grasp on reality. They are no longer bound by societal expectations and may say or do anything they want without being harshly punished for it. By creating the idea of feigned madness, Shakespeare is using this as an outlet to demonstrate the hidden views of people in Shakespeare’s God fearing society, such as the idea of existentialism and suicide. It is a way of having freedom of speech without the consequences that come with it.
Quote #1:
POLONIUS
Take this from this, if this be otherwise:
If circumstances lead me, I will find
Where truth is hid, though it were hid indeed
Within the centre.
KING CLAUDIUS
How may we try it further?
LORD POLONIUS
You know, sometimes he walks four hours together
Here in the lobby.
QUEEN GERTRUDE
So he does indeed.
LORD POLONIUS
At such a time I'll loose my daughter to him:
Be you and I behind an arras then;
Mark the encounter: if he love her not
And be not from his reason fall'n thereon,
Let me be no assistant for a state,
But keep a farm and carters.
(2.2.157-168)
Merit K (part 2)
ReplyDeleteQuote #1 Analysis:
This quote demonstrates how madness has a great affect on those around it. Hamlet's actions cause others to be very weary of him. Prior to this quote, Claudius quickly disregards Voltemond, who is presenting him with information relevant to his kingdom as a whole, and is instead more focused on Hamlet's state of mind and how it might affect him. If Hamlet is truly mad, he no longer has any limitations hindering him and can say what he pleases, which can be harmful to Claudius and his reputation. There is a shift in focus in terms of his priorities because of how uneasy and uncomfortable he is by Hamlet's actions, who is next in line for the throne and beloved by the people of Denmark. Hamlet also uses his feigned madness as a tool to reveal some hidden qualities about the people around him. This reveals the sly and manipulative skills of the king and especially Polonius, who makes a plot to determine what the cause of Hamlet's madness is, using his own daughter as bait. This demonstrates that Hamlet's decision to put on an antic disposition was very smart because it fulfilled the purpose he intended; to know who is trustworthy and expose the true colours of others. It also shows that Hamlet is very aware of how he can manipulate those around him by his actions. This shows Hamlet as a knowledgeable, rational, and controlled individual, completely different from how frazzled the mad Ophelia acts.
Quote #2:
HAMLET
I loved Ophelia: forty thousand brothers
Could not, with all their quantity of love,
Make up my sum. What wilt thou do for her?
KING CLAUDIUS
O, he is mad, Laertes.
QUEEN GERTRUDE
For love of God, forbear him.
...
This is mere madness:
And thus awhile the fit will work on him;
Anon, as patient as the female dove,
When that her golden couplets are disclosed,
His silence will sit drooping.
HAMLET
Hear you, sir;
What is the reason that you use me thus?
I loved you ever: but it is no matter;
Let Hercules himself do what he may,
The cat will mew and dog will have his day.
(5.1.255-278)
Quote #2 Analysis:
This quote shows how Hamlet's grieving state of mind is easily mistaken for madness by those around him, which causes it to be a cause of concern and a distraction from more important events. It also indicates how heightened Hamlet's emotions are due to his father's death. Hamlet is suffering from grief because he had just discovered that the woman he loved has died. Hamlet uses various hyperboles to demonstrate the greatness of his love towards Ophelia and his grief for her loss. However, the queen and king mistaken these overly dramatic gestures and emotions for madness. These misinterpretations keep Hamlet's life safe because the king is too distracted to discover than Hamlet knows the truth about his father's death. In the last line of the quote, Hamlet states that his words and actions will not be suppressed like they were in the past. This shows that through his feigned madness, he can find a method to express his true thoughts and emotions.
Quote #3:
GENTLEMAN
She speaks much of her father; says she hears
There's tricks i' the world; and hems, and beats her heart;
Spurns enviously at straws; speaks things in doubt,
That carry but half sense: her speech is nothing,
Yet the unshaped use of it doth move
The hearers to collection; they aim at it,
And botch the words up fit to their own thoughts;
Which, as her winks, and nods, and gestures
yield them,
Indeed would make one think there might be thought,
Though nothing sure, yet much unhappily.
HORATIO
'Twere good she were spoken with; for she may strew
Dangerous conjectures in ill-breeding minds.
(4.5.4-20)
Merit K (part 3)
ReplyDeleteQuote #3 Analysis:
In this quote, Ophelia has finally reached her limit and has broken down mentally. This is triggered by the death of her father at the hands of Hamlet. As the quote suggests, others fear what she is saying because she no longer has any limitations. She feels as though she has nothing left to lose. Contrastingly, in act 1 scene 2, during Hamlet's first soliloquy before he decided to put on his antic disposition, he had thoughts which would be frowned upon about committing suicide and how life has no purpose or meaning. However, Hamlet had to keep these thoughts to himself. Once he put on his act, these limitations were uplifted from him and he possessed freedom that he never had before. This also shows Ophelia as a weak character, how women are thought to be in the play and the time period, because as soon as the men in her life who controlled her actions left her, she was no longer able to function properly and became mad. While Hamlet, who also suffered from the murder of his father by his uncle and his mother's quick remarriage to his uncle, was deeply saddened, however, he did not drown himself in his sorrow.
Quote #4:
HAMLET
To be, or not to be: that is the question:
Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
Or to take arms against a sea of troubles,
And by opposing end them? To die: to sleep;
No more; and by a sleep to say we end
The heart-ache and the thousand natural shocks
That flesh is heir to, 'tis a consummation
Devoutly to be wish'd. To die, to sleep;
To sleep: perchance to dream: ay, there's the rub;
For in that sleep of death what dreams may come
When we have shuffled off this mortal coil,
Must give us pause: there's the respect
That makes calamity of so long life;
...
Be all my sins remember'd.
(3.1.56-90)
Quote #4 Analysis:
With Hamlet's new found freedom due to his antic disposition, he can speak of things that otherwise were forbidden from him. In this quote, Hamlet contemplates the meaning of life and toys with the idea of existentialism. He contemplates what happens after you die and the uncertainty it presents about whether or not there is an afterlife. He contemplates whether enduring his grief in silence is more honourable than taking revenge and thereby lowering himself to the same level as his uncle. All of these philosophical thoughts are proof that Hamlet is capable of rational thought and therefore is not suffering from madness but is still influenced by the grief and corruption that came with the death of his father. It shows his strength because although he is haunted by such thoughts, he is still fighting them and choosing not to end his life thereby doing the honourable thing in God's eyes.
Quote #5:
HAMLET
Get thee to a nunnery: why wouldst thou be a
breeder of sinners? I am myself indifferent honest;
but yet I could accuse me of such things that it
were better my mother had not borne me: I am very
proud, revengeful, ambitious, with more offences at
my beck than I have thoughts to put them in,
imagination to give them shape, or time to act them
in. What should such fellows as I do crawling
between earth and heaven? We are arrant knaves,
all; believe none of us. Go thy ways to a nunnery.
Where's your father?
OPHELIA
At home, my lord.
HAMLET
Let the doors be shut upon him, that he may play the
fool no where but in's own house. Farewell.
(3.1.121-133)
Merit K (part 4)
ReplyDeleteQuote #5 Analysis:
In this quote, the gender conflict within this play and time period because of how inferior Hamlet is treating Ophelia is clearly displayed. Hamlet acts in a very aggressive manner towards Ophelia because he is free from societal limitations if he is faking madness. Due to this feigned madness there is no punishment or consequence for his words or actions. He can openly express his feelings about how people in this world are corrupt. He tells to never have children because then she is only bringing more evil humans into this evil and corrupt world. His mad actions also influences Ophelia in a negative manner. His bad treatment towards her adds to her depression which eventually leads to her mental breakdown and following suicide. When Hamlet asks Ophelia where her father is, Hamlet is sending a hint to Polonius and Claudius who are eavesdropping that he knows they are there. This shows that he is thinking rationally and is in fact not mad.
It's a total of 4 parts!
Levana Ho
ReplyDeleteTheme: Corruption
A) THEME INTRODUCTION
In the famous play Hamlet, William Shakespeare develops the theme of corruption and he expresses this theme through a majority of the main characters within the play. Corruption leads to the destruction of oneself and it affects them morally and mentally. Shakespeare’s thematic message in this play expresses to the audience about the downfalls due to corruption and how deeply affected someone can have on it. Corruption is lead by self ambitious acts that destructs the moralities and mentalities of oneself such as the temptation for revenge, murderous actions, adultery, madness and many more. Throughout the play Hamlet, the protagonist, uses his mentality to trigger the perfect moment to seek revenge. In the process, corruption begins to affect his morals as well as his mind because he no longer focuses on anything else but revenge. As well as many other characters in the play, corruption is widely spread within each member in their own unique way, however in the end, still concludes to the destruction of themselves.
B) QUOTATION ANALYSIS
Throughout the play, Shakespeare uses many characters to express the theme of corruption. In regards to these characters, each of them experience different ways in which corruption takes place. They can be morally corrupt, which means that they may or may not be aware of their moral intentions, but still make dishonest and depraved actions. They can also be mentally corrupt, in which they have no idea what their mind is telling them to do. This can also lead to dishonest and depraved actions, such as insanity and madness. Corruption can be evidently visible through King Claudius, Hamlet, Queen Gertrude, and Ophelia.
1. Shakespeare develops the theme of corruption in King Claudius’ character. “Through yet of Hamlet our dear brother’s death/ The memory be green, and that it us befitted,/ To bear our hearts in grief, and our whole kingdom to be contracted in one brow of woe,/ yet so far hath discretion…/ Together with remembrance of ourselves. Therefore our sometime sister, now our queen/ Th’imperial jointress to this warlike state...” (1.2.1-10). This quote is spoken by King Claudius. Through this quote, Claudius is crowned the new King of Denmark after his brother, King Hamlet, passed away. Shortly after his death, he announces the remarriage with Queen Gertrude. This shows corruption in his moral state because he knows it is wrong to murder, but still does so because of his self ambition and his temptation for wealth and prosperity. His murderous actions and adultery with Gertrude shows that he is morally corrupt because under the 10 commandments, it states “Thou shalt not kill” and “Thou shalt not commit adultery”. He even asks God for forgiveness through prayers in Act 3 scene 3, proving that he knows it is morally wrong commit murder but he it did not stop him from doing such actions.
2. Claudius’ self ambitious personality also leads to mental corruption. “’Tis sweet and commendable in your nature, Hamlet/ To give these mourning duties to your father,/But you must know your father lost a father,/ That father lost, lost his- and the survival bound./ … In obstinate condolement is a course/Of impious stubbornness, ‘tis unmanly grief.” (1.2.87-94). This quote is also spoken by King Claudius to Hamlet. Though fresh memories of King Hamlet are still present in the atmosphere of Denmark after his death, it does not seem to affect Claudius. His mind mainly focuses on the success of his future life once crowned the new king, as well as his new wife, Gertrude. Through this quote, Claudius shows his insincerity to his loss of King Hamlet. He tells Hamlet that life still goes on and that death is a natural occurrence in a lifecycle. He is corrupt through the mind because it relates to the fact that his ambition and main goal in life is to be prosperous and he does not show any care for his own brother, King Hamlet. Instead, he opposes Hamlet and blames him for not being manly enough, and that mourning is something that no man will do.
ReplyDelete3. Hamlet shows moral corruption throughout the play that leads to his destruction because of his self persistence for revenge. “For murder, though it have no tongue, will speak/ With most miraculous organ. I’ll have these players/ Play something like the murder of my father/ Before mine uncle. I’ll observe his looks; I’ll tent him to be quick. If a do blench,/ I know my course.” (2.2.580-586). In this quote, Hamlet speaks a soliloquy. After hearing the player’s emotional performance, Hamlet is impressed by how easily the player can develop tears and emotions, and decides to take this advantage to plot his revenge. This enhances moral corruption because it shows that he is determined and wants revenge for his father by doing whatever it takes to kill Claudius. He wants to use this opportunity to trigger King Claudius’ self conscious to have proven evidence for his revenge. Hamlet’s persistence and perseverance has lead him in the wrong direction because he is so focused on getting revenge that nothing and nobody is important to him anymore.
4. Hamlet also shows mental corruption that leads to destruction within the play. “Ghost: ‘Murder must foul, as in the best it is,/ But this most foul, strange and unnatural.’ Hamlet: ‘Haste me to know’t, that I with wings as swift/ As meditation or the thoughts of love/ May sweep to my revenge.’ ” (1.5.27-31). King Hamlet’s ghost reveals how he truly got murdered, and through Hamlet’s disgust and anger, he automatically promises his father that he will seek revenge before the ghost even expresses the situation of his death. When King Hamlet tells his son to get revenge, he does not hesitate and immediately wants to help his father take action. This is mentally corrupt because the main focus in Hamlet’s life is to help his father get revenge. Nothing to Hamlet is more important than to murder Claudius and this leads to the destruction of himself because as the temptation to murder and to seek revenge grows, he will only focus on getting revenge and nothing to him will be significant.
5. Shakespeare enhances corruption through Queen Gertrude’s character. “O Hamlet, speak no more. Thou turn’st my eyes into my very soul, /And there I see such black and grained spots/As will not leave their tinct.” (3.4.88-91). Hamlet and her mother, Queen Gertrude, confront to one another of their emotions and concerns. As Hamlet speaks the bitter truth to Gertrude about all her terrible actions of remarrying less than 3 months after King Hamlet’s death, Gertrude becomes greatly sensitive and emotionally affected by his words. She constantly orders Hamlet to immediately stop talking because she does not want to hear the truth. This shows how Gertrude’s mind is corrupt because she wishes not to think of her own guilt and sins. She is so deeply affected by what she has done that the guilt and conscious will never be washed away. She knew that remarrying right after her first husband’s death was wrong but she avoided the problem because she did not want to think of how emotionally affected she was by the loss. This causes the Queen’s self destruction sooner or later because she would not be able to support her own mental and emotional damage.
ReplyDelete6. Everything that Ophelia has gone through has affected her mentally and emotionally. “Tomorrow is Saint Valentine’s day, /All in the morning betime,/And I a maid at your window,/To be your valentine./Then up he rose, and donn’d his clo’es,/ Let in the maid that out a maid/Never departed more.” (4.5.48-55). From the sudden and devastating loss of Hamlet’s love, to the innocent death of her father Polonius, She no longer knows what her mind is telling her to do. She is unable to function normally and as a result, her insanity has made her mentally corrupt. As a result, she sings to express her uncontrollable feelings towards Hamlet and how he left her, as well as the strong impact she had on Polonius’ death. At this point, her mind and body is already emotionally destroyed. She no longer feels the importance to care for her own physical health because she is so mentally damaged. The destruction of Ophelia was caused by Hamlet’s suddenly changing attitude and death of her father, leading her to break down and fall apart.
William Shakespeare created many plays throughout his life. He was known for his tragic plays. Critics believe that Hamlet is one of Shakespeare’s most complicated plays. It is a story about the protagonist, Prince Hamlet who tried to avenge his father’s death by putting an antic disposition. In times in was difficult to determine if he was acting mad or actually is mad. Death, madness, revenge, and love are commonly found in this play. However, procrastination seems to appear very often in the play. Procrastination is the act of delaying something to a later time. Young Prince Hamlet tends to delay his action to avenge his father’s death. Despite knowing his father’s murderer, Hamlet did not confront or put an action to it. Instead he plans to put an antic disposition. In the end of the play, Hamlet successfully avenged his father’s death with the cost of his own life and others’. Hamlet’s Hammartia is definitely his procrastination. This tragic flaw of his, has led him to his downfall and the unnecessary deaths of others. Throughout the play Hamlet was given numerous chances to confront or even kill King Claudius, his father’s murderer, instead he chose to think it over which he then losses the power of action. Hamlet is not the only one who likes to delay his actions. Claudius also has the habit of making excuses not to do things, which at the end complicates the situation even more. As the problem drags, more complication seems to come up. If he had confronted or killed Claudius in the beginning of the play, there would not have been a domino affect of unfortunate deaths. Shakespeare added these tragic deaths into the play to highlight the results of procrastination. The more things are not done, the more will pile up.
ReplyDelete1. “How strange or odd some’er I bear myself/ As I perchance hereafter shall think meet/ To put an antic disposition on”(1.5,178-180).
In the beginning of the play, Hamlet learns the truth about his father’s murderer. Instead of confronting Claudius, he decides to put an antic disposition to observe the situation around him to see whom he can or cannot trust. Normally people would have confronted the truth to the murderer, or tried to expose the deed to the public. Soon after, rumors of Hamlet’s crazy act start to spread through the castle and Ophelia breaks her relationship with him. Her father, Polonius disagrees on her relationship with him. Hamlet of course did not take the break up easily. Hamlet lashed out to Ophelia when the queen was spying on him. The Queen assumes that his madness was driven by his love for Ophelia. All these confusion of his mental state led the arrival of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. More and more people are getting involved in this matter due to Hamlet’s procrastination. Without his realization he stands out, the harder it gets to avenge his father, since all eyes are on him. He did not account this matter when he decided to put on an antic disposition.
2.“I, his sole son, do this same villain send,/To heaven./Oh, this is hire and salary, not revenge”(3.3, 76-79)
ReplyDelete“Up, sword, and know thou a more horrid hent:/When he is drunk asleep, or in his rage,/or in th’incestuous pleasure of his bed,/At game a-swearing, or about some act/That has no relish of salvation in’t”(3.3,88-89)
In this scene Hamlet had a perfect opportunity to kill Claudius, which Hamlet let it slipped away. Claudius was praying in a kneeling position. There was a sense of hesitation in Hamlet’s words. He was not sure about killing Claudius when he said, “do this same villain send.” It is as if Hamlet is comparing himself to Claudius. Would he be the same villain as Claudius would be after he killed the late King Hamlet? His hesitation in this situation may have stopped his actions. During this Elizabethan time, people embraced the Christian believes whole-heartedly. The concept of sin and purgatory may have confused him. Christians do believe in the existence of purgatory, where sinners spend time repaying their sins before they are allowed to go to Heaven. If he kills Claudius when he is praying, his soul would go to heaven. It would not be fair to kill his father’s villain and send him to heaven, while the villain sent his father to purgatory. He told himself he would kill Claudius at his most sinful state. Thus he stops and walks away. Ironically, Claudius did not pray, still making him a sinful man. Hamlet could have killed him at the moment and send him to purgatory. Every opportunity given to him, Hamlet seems to find reasons not to do it and decides that a better time would come up soon. Here he was seen committing his third act of procrastination. With every opportunity he neglects, the more problem spurs afterwards. Right after this scene, Polonius spies on Hamlet behind the curtain. Hamlet lashed out his rage to the queen to the point of aggression, which Polonius then called for help. Recklessly Hamlet kills the old man thinking it was Claudius. All of this misunderstanding could have been avoided if Hamlet killed Claudius in the earlier scene. Polonius’ death is the first domino to fall in the line of unfortunate deaths.
3.“My words fly up, my thoughts remain below. Words without thoughts never to heaven go”(3.3,97-98)
The characters in Hamlet seem to have the tendency to procrastinate. Right after the play performed by the actors, Claudius seems to be very nervous. He sensed that someone knew about his dirty deed, so he decided to pray for forgiveness. When he was left alone, he thinks that he is so sinful that even prayers will not help. He thought about confessing his murder, however he is still enjoying his prizes. He could not let go the things that actually made him murder his own brother. At the end of the scene he decided not to pray. These characters in the play seems to find reasons to not do what they are suppose to do, to justify themselves and to buy more time. Claudius procrastination led to more problems for him. If he confessed right after the performance, Hamlet would not accidentally kill Polonius, and that incident would not lead to Ophelia’s suicide. Then Laertes and him would not have planned to kill Hamlet, which backed fire taking Laertes, Gertrude, and his own lives at the end of the play.
4.“Our sovereign process, which imports at full/ By letters congruing to that effect/ The present death of Hamlet. Do it, England;/ For like the hectic in my blood rages,/And thou must cure me. Till I know ‘tis done/ Howe’er my haps, my joy were ne’er begun/”(4.3,63-68)
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Claudius decided send Hamlet to England so he can secretly have Hamlet killed by the English king. He thinks if he had Hamlet killed in Elsinore it would upset the queen, so by sending him away and make it as if it was an accident was the best plan. Claudius himself did not want to do the dirty job, so he gives the task to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to do it for him. As the King of Denmark he can have Hamlet trialed, since he killed Polonius. However he decided that it would break Gertrude’s heart and the public if he did so. Claudius didn’t expect that Hamlet would tricked Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to their deaths and returned to Elsinore. Claudius decided to postpone Hamlet’s creating more problems for himself. He caused the death of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern since they were killed instead of Hamlet. Hamlet came back, which is a threat to him, since he knew that Claudius killed the late king Hamlet. Now that Hamlet is back he needs to plan another way to kill Hamlet, which at the end back fired causing his own death.
5.“How came he dead? I’ll not be juggled with./To hell, allegiance! Vows, to the blackest devil!/Conscience and grace, to the profoundest pit!/I dare damnation./To this point I stand/That both the worlds I give to negligence./Let come what comes, only I’ll be revenged/Most thoroughly for my father.” (4.5,129-135)
Shakespeare purposely throws in a character, who is the exact opposite of Hamlet. Laertes is Hamlet foil character when it come dealing with problems. A foil character is a character who contrasts with another character in term of qualities and personality. Hamlet and Laertes both are in the same situation, where both their fathers were murdered and have the urge for revenge. However each one deals with the situation differently. Laertes is more spontaneous and reckless, while Hamlet is more reserve and careful in a situation. When his father Polonius died, he came marching to the castle with an army of rebels demanding answers and recklessly threatening the king. There is a huge contrast between the two. Hamlet is more of a thinker while Laertes is more doer. Due to his nature of over thinking Hamlet will most likely to procrastinate than Laertes. Audience at this point should have realized that both characters in some ways parallel to each other despite their reaction upon situations. Though different approach both end up having the similar fate. Hamlet’s procrastination led him to his own grave, while Laertes’ downfall was his recklessness. Shakespeare is pointing out that too careful or too reckless are both fatal. Having it all planned out and put it into action with a calm attitude will guarantee success. Laertes’ death can be rooted back to Hamlet. If Hamlet killed Claudius in scene 3.3, then Laertes would have no motive to kill Hamlet, thus his death could have been prevented. Less unfortunate life is spared in from Hamlet’s procrastination.
Quotations:
ReplyDelete1. “O that this too too sullied flesh would melt,/ Thaw and resolve itself into a dew,/ Or that the Everlasting had not fix’d/ His canon ’gainst self-slaughter. O God! God!/ How weary, stale, flat, and unprofitable/ Seem to me all the uses of this world!” (1.2.129-134)
This quote is the first soliloquy from Hamlet immediately after the coronation of the new king Claudius and the marriage of Claudius and Gertrude. It shows that Hamlet does not want to exist in the world because he feels that there is no point to live in a corrupted world where everyone would only celebrate the coronation of Claudius while the rightful King passed away recently. Hamlet is still very depressed from the death of King Hamlet at this time, and what makes him more saddened is that his mother’s quick remarriage to his uncle after his father’s death. Hamlet is very fond of his father and knows that King Hamlet is very loving husband to his mother, and yet his mother seems to have moved on really quick and even marries his uncle, which he sees that as incestuous and makes him wanting to end his life to get rid of the pain and sorrow he is feeling. However, Hamlet lives in a Catholic society which believes that everyone would receive the judgement from God and get rewards or punishment for what people did in their lives, so Hamlet knows that committing suicide is seen as a disrespect of life and violates the Ten Commandments from God, and he would be punished by God after death if he commits that sin. This is the major reason that holds Hamlet back from committing suicide even though he wants to die.
2. “To be, or not to be, that is the question:/ Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer/ The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,/ Or to take arms against a sea of troubles/ And by opposing end them. To die – to sleep,/ No more; and by a sleep to say we end/ The heart-ache and the thousand natural shocks/ The flesh is heir to: ’tis a consummation/ Devoutly to be wish’d. To die, to sleep;/ To sleep, perchance to dream – ay, there’s the rub:/ For in that sleep of death what dreams may come,/ When we have shuffled off this mortal coil,/ Must give us pause – there’s the respect/ That makes calamity of so long life.” (3.1.56-69)
This quote is spoken by Hamlet in a soliloquy while Claudius and Polonius are hiding and trying to find out if Hamlet is acting crazy or not and if Hamlet gets crazy because of Ophelia. This quote shows how Hamlet is struggling if he should continue living or he should kill himself because he now finds out that Claudius is the murderer of his father and yet he could not do anything about it and cannot take revenge for his father, which makes him even more frustrated with himself and makes him think that there is no use for him to live in the world. Even though Hamlet shows that he wants to die, he is uncertain about the state of after death, and his cowardice that is another reason that stops Hamlet from committing suicide. This quote demonstrates that Hamlet thinks there is no meaning to exist in the world and also shows that Hamlet is a very cautious and coward person as he worries too much about things which holds him back and procrastinate when he wants to do certain things, such as killing Claudius to get revenge for King Hamlet and committing suicide instead of letting his misery and frustration to control his actions.
3. “And so ’a goes to heaven;/ And so am I reveng’d. That would be scann’d:/ A villain kills my father, and for that/ I, his sole son, do this same villain send/ To heaven./ Why, this is hire and salary, not revenge./ ’A took my father grossly, full of bread,/ With all his crimes broad blown, as flush as May;/ And how his audit stands who knows save heaven?/ But in our circumstance and course of thought/ ’Tis heavy with him. And am I then reveng’d,/ To take him in the purging of his soul,/ When he is fit and season’d for his passage?/ No.” (3.3.74-87)
ReplyDeleteThis quote is spoken by Hamlet when he sees Claudius confessing his sin of killing King Hamlet, while he has a perfect timing to kill Claudius. However, Hamlet still did not get his revenge, which shows that he is a coward who is scared to kill a person, even though that person is proved to be the murderer of his father and he swore to have his revenge. Hamlet loves his father a lot and swears that he would take revenge for his father when King Hamlet’s ghost appeared to him and told him about that he is murdered by Claudius. However, he did not take action immediately and thinks that the ghost might deceive him at the beginning, but now Hamlet even hears Claudius admitting to his crime of murdering the rightful king for the throne and the queen, and he still does not kill Claudius while he could have killed Claudius easily while he was praying and unaware of Hamlet’s presence. It could also be that Hamlet really wants to destroy Claudius completely by killing him and sending him to hell, instead of killing him when he is having a confession which God. When one confesses his/her sins to God and begs for forgiveness, God will always forgive our misconduct. Therefore killing Claudius at that time would give Claudius a path to go to heaven since he just washed away his sins because he is repenting for what he has done and asking for the forgiveness from God. In this case, it means that at this point in the play, Hamlet still believes that heaven and hell exist, and that is what gives him the motive to continue existing at the same time.
4. “Alexander/ died, Alexander was buried, Alexander returneth to/ dust, the dust is earth, of earth we make loam, and why/ of that loam whereto he was converted might they not/ stop a beer-barrel?/ Imperious Caesar, died and turn’d to clay,/ Might stop a hole to keep the wind away./ O that that earth which kept the world in awe/ Should patch a wall t’expel the winter’s flaw.” (5.1.152-200)
Hamlet said this to Horatio after he sees Yorick’s skull because Hamlet realizes that maybe through all the struggles he has gone through, which is all abandoned because of the concept of heaven and hell, life might just be completely meaningless and everyone would turn into dust after their deaths. Even people who possessed great power, wealth and fame in their lifetimes will all eventually die and turn into dust, with nothing about them left in the world. This new idea of afterlife leads Hamlet to think that life is not such a big deal anymore, and it does not matter if he kills himself since there would not be any judgement from God; he will just turn into nothing before the time that his life actually ends, which Hamlet sees that as a good thing since he does not want to live through all the sorrows and pain anymore. If everyone would just have the same endings no matter what they do in their lives, achieving the state of death earlier or later does not really make too much differences. This quote is significant in letting the audiences know that Hamlet’s point of view is now changed because Hamlet does not fear about death since there is no meaning to his existence anymore and there might not even have any consequences for whatever things he does in his lifetime.
5. “If it be now, ’tis not to come; if it/ be not to come, it will now; if it be not now, yet it will/ come. The readiness is all. Since no man, of aught he/ leaves, knows aught, what is’t to leave betimes? Let be.” (5.2.205-208)
ReplyDeleteThis quote is spoken by Hamlet to Horatio when Horatio tells Hamlet not to play the fencing match with Laertes because Laertes is known to be a good fencer, and Horatio is worried that Hamlet would be killed during the match. However, Hamlet declines Horatio’s suggestion because if he is going to be killed at this point of his life, he cannot do anything to escape from it, and if he is still going to live for quite a while, he would not die in the fencing match. Hamlet accepts the challenge and plays the fencing match with Laertes because he knows that Laertes is a skilled fencer and he could lose to Laertes and die in the match. Hamlet always wants to end his life, however he is afraid that he would be sentenced to hell because of suicide, but if he plays the fencing match with Laertes and dies, that obviously would not be considered as committing suicide since he would still try his best to play. Even though Hamlet thinks that maybe heaven and hell do not exist, but he knows that it is an uncertainty, no one would know what happens after death. Therefore, the fencing match is a good way to get himself killed and end his life. If he wins the match and does not die, then maybe it is his destiny that he should not be dead at that time, so there is nothing for him to worry about in competing with Laertes. This is even a good thing to Hamlet because it helps him to make the choice that he has been struggling with throughout that play that if he should live or he should die.
(sorry, my intro paragraph didn't show up so I reposted it at the bottom)
ReplyDeleteAshley Chiang (1/3)
ReplyDeleteHamlet contains many dark themes that are explored throughout the play. These dark themes match directly with the fact that Hamlet is a tragedy. Thus, in this play, Hamlet is our tragic hero. Every tragic hero has a tragic flaw (hamartia) that leads to his downfall. Procrastination is Hamlet’s tragic flaw, which is the main idea Shakespeare is trying to make with this theme. From the moment Hamlet knew that his uncle murdered his father, the King of Denmark, Hamlet swore to avenge him but never produced any results of revenge until the end of the play. If Hamlet had taken a different, swifter path for his revenge, then it most likely would have not resulted in his own death as well. Shakespeare draws parallels about Hamlet’s procrastination by comparing Hamlet with Laertes. Laertes was reckless and aggressive after learning about his father’s death, confronting all whom were involved, whereas Hamlet was secretive about his retribution and putting on acts of craziness to hide his true intentions. Shakespeare explores this theme in the play by drawing parallels and creating situations to highlight the fact that procrastination is Hamlet’s tragic flaw.
“But come, here, as before, never so help you mercy, how strange or odd some’er I bear myself – As I perchance hereafter shall think meet to put an antic disposition on –“
(1. 5. 176 – 180)
Right after learning that his uncle, Claudius murdered his father, Hamlet swears to avenge him. Once that happens, Hamlet tells Horatio not to speak a word of this night and what has happened. Hamlet forces Horatio to promise not to say anything because he is going to put on an “antic disposition”, meaning that he is going to act crazy in front of everyone. It is suggested that Hamlet is doing this to figure out whom he can trust and to scare those whom he can’t. Unlike most courses of revenge that would immediately result in a plan of execution, Hamlet has decided to “act crazy” first. This idea first suggests Hamlet’s procrastination. He is enraged after learning about his father’s murder but does not develop a plan of murder to avenge him; Instead Hamlet wants to develop an underhanded way of figuring out his trust in others first. Shakespeare first introduces the idea of procrastination within Hamlet through this quote, by showing his first plan of action is to put on an “antic disposition”, rather than murdering Claudius as soon as possible. It shows that the theme of procrastination develops at the beginning of the play, despite just being suggested. It eventually expands and grows into a more intricate theme in the play.
Hamlet – The Meaning of Existence
ReplyDeleteThroughout the play Hamlet from William Shakespeare, Hamlet thinks that his existence is meaningless and reveals that he wants to commit suicide in his first soliloquy because he loves his father so much that he cannot accept the fact that he has passed away. To contribute to his depressed mood, his mother has remarried to his uncle in less than two months after the death of his father. Therefore, he feels very disappointed in his mother and thinks that the whole world is corrupted because people around him are celebrating the marriage of his mother and his uncle as well as the coronation of his uncle instead of mourning for the rightful king. Despite Hamlet is feeling that he cannot take the miseries in his life anymore and that he wants to end his pain by committing suicide, he is held back by knowing that committing suicide means committing a very serious sin that would bring him to hell after his death. So we exist, according to Hamlet, only to avoid the unknown state after death and the possibility of going to hell if he commits suicide. However, towards the end of the play, when Hamlet looks at how the gravedigger throws people’s skulls around, he suddenly realizes that no matter how much fame, wealth, or power people possessed in their lives, they would still be turned into dust eventually after their deaths. Since Hamlet never finds a meaning of existence in the play that he is comfortable with showing his desire for dying. However, the scene of Hamlet seeing the skulls and knowing about how life is temporary and that we turn into nothing after death changes his mind about suicide. He realizes he does not have to obey the laws of God. However, no one can prove if one will go to heaven or hell after death, or just turn into dust. This causes Hamlet to continue to struggle with if he should make his decision to commit suicide or not. As Hamlet is a cautious person who would do things in a safe way, he comes up with a “solution”; that he could very easily get himself killed, ending his life without committing suicide. If he gets killed, it is a way to help him end his life so he does not have to live in a world that causes him a lot of pain and he does not violate the laws of God by killing himself. Ultimately, regarding the meaning of our existence, Shakespeare suggests that our existence is temporary and there is not really any meaning to exist in the world. Shakespeare introduces the idea that people would just turn into dust after their deaths instead of receiving a judgement from God and that our own souls would go to heaven or hell, which is a very controversial idea in the Catholic-based community he was living in. Although Shakespeare has this thought, he could not be sure if his concept is right or not, therefore he portrays this through Hamlet in a play, and says how people are cowards who do not dare to face what will happen after death.
Ashley Chiang (2/3)
ReplyDelete“I’ll have these players play something like the murder of my father before mine uncle. I’ll observe his looks; I’ll tent him to the quick. If ‘a do blench, I know my course… The play’s the thing wherein I’ll catch the conscience of the king.”
(2. 2. 581 – 585 and 591 – 592)
At the time this quote is spoken, it has been an entire act since Hamlet discovered that his father was murdered by his uncle Claudius. Since then, he has produced no means of revenge. Hamlet has only “acted crazy” to Polonius, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, who are all spies for the King. In this quote, Hamlet is talking about putting on a play that is exactly like his father’s murder in front of King Claudius to see if he flinches or shows any sort of emotion during the production. If he does so, then he must be guilty and Hamlet will finally enact his revenge. This quote refers to the theme of procrastination because Hamlet has already had enough time to think of an idea on how to avenge his father, but he still has not done so. Now, during this quote, Hamlet is trying to extend his belief in Claudius’ sins. Through his procrastination, it appears that Hamlet is questioning his only reason to kill Claudius, which happens to be his dead father’s ghost. So, to be sure, Hamlet has thought of this play to see Claudius’ reaction. Shakespeare showcases the first example of procrastination being made here by Hamlet. Much time has passed, yet Hamlet has not yet avenged his father. With his new plan of putting on a play, Hamlet’s procrastination has grown by delaying the murder for more proof on Claudius’ guilt.
“And so ‘a goes to heaven; and so am I reveng’d. That would be scann’d: A villain kills my father, and for that I, his sole son, do the same villain send to heaven. Why, this is hire and salary, not revenge.”
(3. 3. 74 – 79)
Hamlet has finally come across the most opportune moment to kill Claudius – while he is praying in the chapel. Hamlet even has his sword above his head but he stops himself. In the quote shown, Hamlet talks about how if he kills Claudius while he is praying, then he will immediately go to heaven; Hamlet would rather him suffer in lifelong purgatory instead. Once again, Hamlet delays his revenge, putting off the murder of his treacherous uncle, because he wants the cruellest death for him. The first setback Hamlet created may have understandable as Hamlet would have felt reluctance in murdering his uncle; however, this is the second time and the audience is beginning to see the intended procrastination on behalf of Hamlet. Hamlet has been given the most favourable situation to murder Claudius, but still does not kill him. Hamlet reasons with himself (and the audience) by insisting that Claudius will only go to heaven if Hamlet murders him while he’s praying. Hamlet feels that Claudius deserves the most carefully-plotted and vengeful death. Hamlet’s procrastination has developed into a theme by act three and is expanded as the play continues. This quote shows that Hamlet has delayed himself another time, showing his procrastination.
ashley chiang (3/3)
ReplyDelete“Do you not come your tardy son to chide, that, laps’d in time and passion, lets go by th’important acting of dread command? O say.”
(3. 4. 107 – 110)
The ghost of Hamlet’s father makes a second appearance in the play while Hamlet is confronting his mother about her sins for remarrying her brother-in-law with such haste. Hamlet can see the ghost and communicate with him whilst Gertrude cannot see anything and thinks Hamlet has gone crazy. When Hamlet sees his father, he is immediately humbled and asks (in the quote shown) if his father has come to reprimand him for being delayed on avenging his death. Throughout the play, Hamlet never questioned himself or his procrastination. However, once he sees his father’s ghost, he is meek and apologizes for not conducting his revenge sooner. This shows that Hamlet is aware of his procrastination and knows that it is wrong to be doing so, but still does it. It is the tragic flaw that he has and cannot control it. At this point in the play, his procrastination has grown so much that Hamlet is no longer controlling the events of the play. If Hamlet had executed his revenge as soon as he could, then it would not have led to this down-spiral of events, eventually resulting in his death. As his procrastination is brought up again in this quote, Shakespeare is trying to convey the fact that procrastination as Hamlet’s tragic flaw has developed.
“But I am very sorry, good Horatio, that to Laertes I forgot myself; For the image of my cause I see the portraiture of his. I’ll court his favours. But sure the bravery of his grief did put me into a tow-ring passion.”
(5. 2. 75 – 80)
In the final act of the play, Hamlet has finally seen the parallel between him and Laertes. In this quote, it shows Hamlet talking to Horatio and telling him about the similarity he sees between him and Laertes. Hamlet regrets how he treated Laertes after his sister and father’s death, but at the same time, is annoyed by Laertes’ ostentation way of receiving attention about it. Unlike Hamlet who was reserved and secretive about his grief, Laertes was loud with his grief and reckless with his revenge. Laertes serves as Hamlet’s character foil, meaning that Laertes possesses characteristics that contrast with Hamlet’s, which allows the parallel between the two characters to grow. The audience can now see how another person would act after a father’s murder, realizing now that Hamlet’s scheme is unorthodox. Despite being aware of his belated revenge through his father, Hamlet thinks that his covert method of seeking revenge was much more effective compared to Laertes’ boastful version. Hamlet has not realized the error in his ways and is still confident in his own actions, thinking that his plan was better. Following this quote, Hamlet will soon realize his procrastination eventually led to his own downfall and resulted in six more deaths than needed (Gertrude, Laertes, Polonius, Ophelia, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern). His procrastination ended up being his tragic flaw, which resulted in him becoming a tragic hero.
Alan - Procrastination - 1
ReplyDeleteIn the revenge tragedy Hamlet, Shakespeare consistently demonstrates Hamlet's procrastination of his revenge to kill King Claudius. Shakespeare illustrates scenes of Hamlet's plotting for revenge and making excuses to stall his revenge which simply show Hamlet's cowardice and his inability to take firm action. As a result, Hamlet reflects upon himself every once in awhile in regards to why he cannot kill the King out of revenge. In an overall summary, Hamlet prolongs his plan for revenge and never actually conducts a formal plan but improvises in the final scene. This contributes to the development of the themes of death and madness. As the plot continually develops, the intensity of Hamlet's soliloquies and the consequences of his procrastination gradually increase. Hamlet's feigned madness gradually evolves as he stalls his revenge to the point where it is arguable whether Hamlet is actually in madness. This madness leads to the eventual death of Ophelia, an innocent bystander who also succumbed to madness caused by Hamlet's irrational and rash acting. Given this, Shakespeare conveys the message that one needs focus, a strong will and determination to conduct any task, or there will gradually be greater anguish and consequences brought about not only to the individual but also those around him/her.
Hamlet Theme Assignment: D. Lies
ReplyDeleteBy; Davide A. Chiarella
Throughout the entirety of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” numerous characters turn to underhanded and manipulative methods to achieve their goals. Characters such as Polonius, Gertrude, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, and especially King Claudius weave intricate webs of lies and dishonesty, centering on one prominent theme sewn into the fabric of the plot: deception. The story of Hamlet is greatly based on mistrust and the idea of finding truth beneath the many lies, and Shakespeare employs this theme in the hopes of communicating that no good can ever come from lying. In multiple instances, the characters are driven to dishonest actions by their ambitions, aspirations, and beliefs, but as the tale unfolds, each character is, in turn, forced to face their just punishment and balance the universal scale of right and wrong. These deceptive acts grow outward from King Hamlet’s wrongful death and the false story presented by Claudius, and as the plot unfolds, so too do the lies develop into thicker obstacles for all. Many characters’ lives end with a poisoned death, beginning first with the poison of lies. The Greek philosopher Plato once said, “False words are not only evil in themselves, but they infect the soul with evil," and few literary works exemplify this theme more effectively than “Hamlet.”
QUOTES #1: HAMLET:
O villain, villain, smiling, damned villain!
My tables,—meet it is I set it down,
That one may smile, and smile, and be a villain;
At least I'm sure it may be so in Denmark:
(1.5.106-109)
KING CLAUDIUS;
[Aside] O, 'tis too true!
How smart a lash that speech doth give my conscience!
The harlot's cheek, beautied with plastering art,
Is not more ugly to the thing that helps it
Than is my deed to my most painted word:
O heavy burthen!
(3.1.49-54)
- The theme of deception is a deeply woven aspect in the play, thus making it rather difficult to accurately capture in one quotation. The above two quotes bring focus to the central lie that sets all those that follow into motion – the killing of King Hamlet by his brother Claudius. The first of the two quotes is spoken by young Hamlet after learning from the ghost of his father that it was indeed Claudius that was responsible for his death. This is the first true instance in the play where the audience learns of any lies or deception happening ‘behind the scenes’ (no pun intended) and this is Hamlet’s response and view of Claudius. We learn also, beginning with this quote and continuing as the plot progresses, how Hamlet views dishonesty in general and how he loathes those who are not truthful, seeking above all truth. There is, therefore, a direct tie to the theme of deception and essentially commences the development of this theme. Referring to the same crime, the second quote, spoken by King Claudius later on in the play, further exemplifies this theme and confirms the claims of his secretive murder for the audience. In this quote, he compares himself to a Harlot and how a harlot covers her face with makeup – this idea is a strong, prevalent aspect to the play as well as this theme because it also deals with Gertrude’s pseudo demeanor and Hamlet’s views on all the women in his life. To Hamlet, women seem to represent exactly what he wishes to counter – dishonesty and mistrust.
Alan - Procrastination - 2
ReplyDeleteThe following quotations help demonstrate Hamlet's procrastination including his plans, reflections, excuses and the consequences of procrastinating.
“How strange or odd some’er I bear myself--/As I perchance hereafter shall think meet/ To put an antic disposition on--…” (1.5.178-180)
After hearing about King Claudius' betrayal from the ghost, Hamlet decides to feign madness in order to disguise his potentially absurd actions. This demonstrates that Hamlet is a very cautious person since he takes meticulous measures to perform his revenge. However, his idea is merely a form of stalling because it's extremely time consuming to develop and spread his message that he is mad. Unlike Laertes who suddenly storms into the King's palace with a crowd and weapon in hand, Hamlet decides to slowly stall time clearly showing his lack of determination. Hence, Hamlet effectively demonstrates how he already plans in advance to procrastinate his revenge.
Hamlet stalls his revenge by creating excuses for himself, even when given perfect opportunities to conduct it. He questions himself when he has an excellent opportunity to kill the King whether he is, "then reveng'd, / To take him in the purging of his soul,/ When he is fit and season'd for his passage?/ No. / Up, sword, and know thou a more horrid hent:/ When he is drunk asleep, or in his rage, / Or in th'incestous pleasure of his bed, / At game a-swearing, or about some act/ That has no relish of salvation in't" (3.3.84-92). Hamlet demonstrates in this reference that he lacks the will and focus to conduct his revenge. He simply creates excuses so that he may continue to procrastinate his revenge. Hamlet lacks the necessary determination to kill the King and covers it up with excuses. Hamlet continues to mask himself, with his antic disposition and excuses. This shows his cowardice and weak inner will to do what he desires to accomplish.
“Hamlet, this deed, for thine especial safety--/Which we do tender, as we dearly grieve/ For that which thou hast done—must send thee hence/ With fiery quickness. Therefore prepare thyself./ The bark is ready, and the wind at help,/ Th’associates tend, and everything is bent/For England.”(4.3.38-44)
This reference demonstrates a consequence of Hamlet's antic disposition. Evidently, Hamlet has caused a fair amount of trouble, yet he hasn't been able to accomplish his objective of killing the King. As a result, Hamlet is to be sent to England. Given this, it is apparent that Hamlet will continue to procrastinate his revenge and being sent to England is a fairly minor consequence of his rashness. Hamlet's stalling of completing his objective leads to consequences for him and anguish for his family and people around him.
Alan - Procrastination - 3
ReplyDeleteAfter seeing Fortinbras' army marching across Denmark towards Poland, Hamlet makes a soliloquy commenting on ,"How stand I then, / That have a father kill'd, a mother stain'd, / Excitements of my reason and my blood, / And let all sleep, while to my shame I see/ The imminent death of twenty thousand men / That, for a fantasy and trick of fame,/ Go to their graves like beds, fight for a plot/ Whereon the numbers cannot try the cause, / Which is not tomb enough and continent / To hide the slain? O, from this time forth/ My thoughts be bloody or be nothing worth." (4.5.56-66). In this reference, Hamlet reflects and recognizes that he lacks determination to conduct his revenge. He has the strength to conduct his revenge, but not the will. He contrasts himself with Fortinbras' army, how they lack the strength to accomplish their goal but they have such a strong will that they're willing to die for it. This contrasts demonstrates that one of the root causes of Hamlet's procrastination is that he lacks the will to conduct his revenge. This reference demonstrates that for one to accomplish a difficult challenge, neither will alone, nor strength alone, is sufficient.
Hamlet's procrastination allows him to maintain his antic disposition. A result of this feigned madness is that he drives Ophelia into genuine madness which lead to her eventual death. While attending her funeral, Hamlet suddenly proclaims that, "I lov'd Ophelia. Forty thousand brothers/ Could not with all their quantity of love/ Make up my sum. What wilt thou do for her?" (5.1.255-257). As shown in this reference, the audience struggles to determine whether Hamlet has truly become mad or whether he continues to feign madness. The situation allows many ambiguous perspectives but it can be agreed that the fault lies in Hamlet's prolonged antic disposition. This reference demonstrates how dire the consequences of Hamlet's procrastination are. Hamlet's procrastination causes many problems for others, as serious as death and the pain of having lost a loved one. By contrasting the consequences in this reference with those in Act 4 Scene 3 Lines 38-44 (third quote), it can be noticed that the severity and negative impact of Hamlet's actions increase over time.
Madness - Hamlet Theme Analysis
ReplyDelete(Part 1/3)
One of the central themes in Hamlet is madness. Many of the characters suffer from different forms of it throughout the play. After the suspicious circumstances surrounding his father’s death, the young prince Hamlet devises a plan to feign madness in order to find those who are truly loyal to him. However, as the play progresses, it becomes increasingly difficult for us to tell whether Hamlet simply putting on an ‘antic disposition’, or if he is actually losing his sanity. Even up to this day, it is unknown whether Shakespeare wrote for Hamlet to be mad or to only seem like it. Laertes exhibits a different kind of madness in the play, one driven by anger and revenge. His sister, Ophelia, succumbs to true madness near the end of the play after her father’s death at the hands of her ex-boyfriend. Although there are many types of madness displayed, the protagonist of the play is Hamlet, thus, Shakespeare chooses to display his form the most. The following quotes examine Hamlet’s madness throughout the play.
Quote 1
“Here, as before, never, so help your mercy,
How strange or odd some’er I bear myse
As I perchance hereafter shall think meet
To put an antic disposition on-“ – 1.5, 177-180
In this quote, Hamlet clearly speaks to Horatio about his plan to put on an ‘antic disposition’. This is when the reader is first made aware of his plans. This scene is very important because it puts the plot of the play into motion. From this scene on, Hamlet feigns madness in front of the King and his subjects, and his actions eventually affect the other characters of the play.
QUOTE #2: Polonius:
ReplyDeleteAt such a time I'll loose my daughter to him:
Be you and I behind an arras then;
Mark the encounter:
(2.2.162-164)
- This quote represents the theme perfectly as it provides the audience with a deep insight into the King and Polonius’ scheming and sly plotting. They attempt to deceive Hamlet by sending Ophelia as a bait of sorts with the intention of secretly listening from a concealed location, thus attempting to obtain what they desire through trickery and dishonest means. Polonius seems rather fond of this method of spying and eventually is killed because of it – this is a prime representation of how Shakespeare wishes to show his audience that deceptive actions will bear unsavory consequence. Additionally, Polonius constantly forces the innocent Ophelia to be the tool of his and the King’s reconnaissance, thus building the initial lies to much larger proportions.
QUOTES #3: HAMLET:
You were sent for; and there is a kind of confession in your looks
which your modesties have not craft enough to colour:
I know the good king and queen have sent for you.
(2.2.274-277)
HAMLET:
Why, look you now, how unworthy a thing you make of
me! You would play upon me; you would seem to know
my stops; you would pluck out the heart of my
mystery; you would sound me from my lowest note to
the top of my compass: and there is much music,
excellent voice, in this little organ; yet cannot
you make it speak. 'Sblood, do you think I am
easier to be played on than a pipe? Call me what
instrument you will, though you can fret me, yet you
cannot play upon me.
(3.2.348-356)
- Throughout the entire play, few quotations exemplify the theme of deception and distrust better than the remarks made by Hamlet toward his ‘former’ friends Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. Both of the above quotations refer to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern’s utter betrayal of Hamlet’s trust, opting instead to follow the commands of the King and Queen to spy on Hamlet in most secret fashion. The false act Rosencrantz and Guildenstern put on in front of Hamlet is a blatant lie and relates back to the ideas from the king’s quote about the harlot wearing makeup – all in perfect representation of the theme. Both relinquished their morals and their once concern for Hamlet in favour of the King and Queen, which, too, proved to be their own undoing also. Paying back trickery with trickery, Hamlet gives Rosencrantz and Guildenstern a dose of their own medicine as they traveled to England, slipping them a fake letter to the King of England ordering their execution. At this point, we see the prime truth-fighter, Hamlet, utilize deception also, and again reinforce Shakespeare’s intention to prove to his audience that no lie is a good lie and that such an underhanded, evil deed will not go unpunished.
(Part 2/3)
ReplyDeleteQuote 2
When Polonius learns of Hamlet’s feelings toward Ophelia, he forbids her from communicating with her. Hamlet starts acting in a crazed fashion towards her. He sends her love letters, and he shows up at her door, behaving strangely. This is shown in the following passage:
My lord, as I was sewing in my closet,
Lord Hamlet, with his doublet all unbraced;
No hat upon his head; his stockings foul'd,
Ungarter'd, and down-gyved to his ancle;
Pale as his shirt; his knees knocking each other;
And with a look so piteous in purport
As if he had been loosed out of hell
To speak of horrors,—he comes before me. (2.1, 77-84)
Ophelia speaks of how she was truly frightened by Hamlet when he appeared at her door like this. It is difficult for the audience to distinguish if this madness is real or not. Just one scene earlier, Polonius had forbid Ophelia from speaking with Hamlet. His crazy behavior could have been caused out of love, or the lack of it, that Ophelia showed for him. He could have been feeling sad and rejected and that may be the reason for his appearance. However, it is also entirely possible that Hamlet was only faking the part. He knew that Ophelia would tell Polonius, who in turn would tell the King, and he would use this passage of information to his advantage.
Quote 3
Polonius brings his concerns to the King and Queen’s attention, but they are interrupted by Hamlet himself. As Polonius speaks with Hamlet, he notes his disrespectful behavior and says the following line: “Though this be madness, yet there is method in’t.” – 2.2, 203-204. This further reinforces that Hamlet’s madness is all carefully orchestrated. However, a few lines later, he is not so convinced that the madness is fake: “How pregnant sometimes his replies are – a happiness that often madness hits on, which reason and sanity could not so prosperously be delivered of.” – 2.2, 206-209. This either shows that Hamlet is very convincing in his act, or that he is slowly starting to lose his sanity. Once again, we are given an ambiguous example of madness.
(Part 3/3)
ReplyDeleteQuote 4
“I am but mad north-north-west. When the wind is southerly, I know a hawk from a handsaw.” 2.2, 368-369.
This is further evidence that Hamlet’s madness is feigned. When Hamlet is talking with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, he tells them that he is only mad sometimes; he has not lost all his senses. Hamlet reveals this because he wants them to know he is aware that they were sent to spy on him. This also tells the audience that Hamlet has not gone off the deep end.
Quote 5
After the play put on for Claudius, Hamlet confronts his mother. After a long discussion about her actions, he tells her to lie to Claudius. He asks her to tell him that “I essentially am not in madness, But mad in craft.” (3.4, 189-190) Though this tells the audience that Hamlet is still sane, in the following scene where the King inquires about Hamlet, the Queen replies: “Mad as the sea and wind when both contend which is the mightier. In his lawless fit, behind the arras hearing something stir, whips out his rapier cries ‘a rat, a rat,’ and in this brainish apprehension kills the unseen good old man.” (4.1,7-12)
We do not know whether the Queen is lying to protect her son, or if she truly believes her son has gone mad. Shakespeare continues to toy with the audience, making them wonder whether he is truly crazy or not.
QUOTE#4: HAMLET
ReplyDelete[…] Where's your father?
OPHELIA
At home, my lord.
HAMLET
Let the doors be shut upon him, that he may play the
fool no where but in's own house. Farewell.
(3.1.130-134)
- Having already lost any potential faith in Polonius, Hamlet is not surprised in this scene to figure out that Polonius is using Ophelia as bait in the hopes that the source of Hamlet’s madness will be revealed. Similar to previous examples provided involving quotes from Polonius, we see here that yet again Polonius is manipulating his daughter Ophelia and forcing her to lie to Hamlet on his behalf, placing her in an uncomfortable situation and staining her innocence. It is this conversation in the play that Hamlet learns that he is incabable even trusting the woman he loves. This quote also efficiently exemplifies the great extent that Claudius and Polonius are willing to go to in their deceptions and how many more lies must be told to cover the truth of the first. Shakespeare presents this vicious cycle to ensure his message about deception is clear: it can only result in bad.
QUOTE#5: LAERTES
I am justly kill'd with mine own treachery.
(5.2.301)
- This final quote, spoken by Laertes toward the very end of this tragedy, is one of the most effective ways for Shakespeare to communicate his thematic message. Laertes, a tragically misguided character throughout, is the first to come to a full realization that these deceptive acts will lead to nothing but death, his “treachery” being the poison he wished to secretly infect Hamlet with in an unfair duel. Furthermore, this “treachery,” referring to the poison, can also be interpreted as all the many lies and deceptive acts, thus all the characters in the final act succumb to it eventually, from the King and Queen to Hamlet to Laertes. Each character suffered the consequences of their “treachery” and paid the ultimate price. This is Shakespeare’s final message about deception and lies: in the end, no one can escape their inevitable fate that they bring upon themselves by acting untruthfully and exchanging trustworthiness for success.
BAM.
- Davide A. Chiarella
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete(part 1)
ReplyDeleteThe meaning of existence is an evident and important theme throughout Hamlet. From start to finish, Prince Hamlet is portrayed as a very philosophical character as the events occurring around him cause him to question the meaning and value of life. This is evident through his behavior as he is constantly contemplating suicide as well as the afterlife. Shakespeare expresses an overlying message that perhaps the grandiose feeling that life must have a higher meaning- transcending the physical reality of the world- is not justified or must at the very least be questioned. The characters in Hamlet suffer through many harsh circumstances which cause them to deal with life and death situations. Hamlet comes to question the mysterious unknown of death and whether there really is anything after this life we live. Hamlet is obsessed with death and what comes next and whether it even has meaning or not. This thought process contemplates whether it is even worth living and brings suicidal thoughts. Shakespeare’s thematic message is that in regards to life and the meaning of existence, there is no way for us to know what happens after death unless we actually die. Since we don’t know what comes next, it is possible that there is no higher power or order to the universe and when we die we are simply gone. If, in fact, there is no more to life than the physical existence then ideas such as honor, morality and the ideas of good and evil are just human creations. They have no real meaning other than that which we assign to them. In this play, Shakespeare- rather than commenting on the meaning of existence- chooses to pose the question if life even has meaning at all and if then in fact spiritual and emotional decisions are irrelevant.
"Die two months ago, and not forgotten yet? Then there’s hope a great man’s memory may outlive his life half a year But, by 'r Lady, he must build churches then, or else shall he suffer not thinking on." Act 3, Scene 2, 18-22
This quote shows the basis of why Hamlet is asking these questions about existence in the first place. Hamlet is being sarcastic to show how ridiculous the circumstance is that he is enduring. The circumstance in question is having his beloved father who died barely two months ago seem to be nearly forgotten while he has been replaced in his position as king and as husband to the queen in great haste. He also comments how to be remembered one must build a church to be remembered; one must make a physical imprint on this world to be remembered. This circumstance has made him take a good look at how quickly a life can be virtually erased from the earth not only physically, but in the minds of those around it and therefore only physical things like a church will preserve your memory after death. This furthers the idea that Hamlet is obsessed with the physical and believes that there is a possibility that there is nothing more to existence than the physical.
(part 2)
ReplyDelete“What a piece of work is man! How noble in reason! how infinite in faculties! in form and moving, how express and admirable! in action how like an angel! in apprehension, how like a god! the beauty of the world! the paragon of animals! And yet, to me, what is this quintessence of dust?” (2, 2, 299-304)
In this quote Hamlet is speaking to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern and describes humanity. Hamlet describes humanity in an exaggeratedly grand way, and then suddenly he has an anticlimactic reversal saying that humanity is nothing more than the “quintessence of dust”. What Hamlet is trying to say through this is that humankind- no matter how profound, sophisticated and noble- is in the end simply physical matter. This statement is important because it is the first time we see how Hamlet is obsessed with the physical aspect of life. This fascination leads him to question if there really is more to life than physical existence. This shows that this idea is established early on in the play.
“Alexander died, Alexander was buried, Alexander returneth into dust; the dust is earth; of
earth we make loam; and why of that loam, whereto he was converted, might they not stop a beer-barrel? Imperious Caesar, dead and turn'd to clay, Might stop a hole to keep the wind away: O, that that earth, which kept the world in awe, Should patch a wall to expel the winter flaw!” (5, 1, 209-216)
“(Hamlet) A man may fish with the worm that hath eat of a king, and eat of the fish that hath fed of that worm. (Claudius) What dost thou mean by this? (Hamlet) Nothing but to show you how a king may go a progress through the guts of a beggar.” (4, 3, 30-34)
After Hamlet sees the skull of the court jester, Yorick, which he knew as a child, he begins to go on a philosophical tangent where he once again becomes obsessed with the physicality of death. This quote explains how even the greatest man can be reduced to something as trivial as the mud that plugs a gap in a wall to keep the wind out. He once again states that every human being comes from dust and eventually returns to dust. This is a comment that only a person seriously contemplating existence would make and this evokes contemplation in the audience. The same point is also made in Hamlet’s interaction with Claudius where he describes how a king can go through the guts of a beggar which develops Hamlet’s view of existence. Both these examples show how this is not an offhand remark by Hamlet, but rather these statements are manifestations of his fascination and bewilderment with death.
(part 3)
ReplyDelete“To sleep, perchance to dream—ay, there's the rub: For in that sleep of death what dreams may come, When we have shuffled off this mortal coil, Must give us pause—there's the respect That makes calamity of so long life.” Act 3, Scene 1, 64-68
In this quote, Hamlet proposes a reason why human’s greatest instinct is to preserve one’s life. It is because we can never know what comes next in life therefore no matter what preparations we make for death we will always fear it. Hamlet is saying that even a man who has faith in the existence of heaven and lives a virtuous life will still show fear at the end of life. Although the afterlife is explained by Christian faith, everyone is still scared by death because there is evidence of what happens next. This once again opens the possibility that there is simply nothing after death. This part of Hamlet’s soliloquy gives the logical reason why death is feared as it is possibly the end of one’s existence.
“Why then 'tis none to you; for there is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so” Act 2, Scene 2, 245-246
Although in this context, Hamlet is referring to a place as good or bad in a literal sense, it is clear that he means for the denotative meaning to be considered. This quote entertains the thought that there no good or bad. This relativist mentality goes against the God fearing society contradicting its fundamental beliefs. Christian faith believes that there are some actions that are good and there are some actions that are inherently bad (sins). Hamlet’s disregard for these set ideas suggest that he is entertaining the idea that these ideas of good and bad are simply just thoughts in our heads that really amount to nothing real and concrete. This idea shows that Hamlet is constantly thinking of the existence of life as his thoughts come through even in an offhanded remark such as the quote above.
Theme: Lies
ReplyDeletePart 1 of 2
One thought, one word, one statement, all have the potential of being a lie. How is it though that we can distinguish from what is false and what is true? The answer is simple, time; in time all lies will lead to the truth. When a person lies, they tend to provide a lot of information about it because they are not only trying to make their lie credible to you, but also to themselves. This extensive information becomes difficult to remember, and thus, the truth will prevail. William Shakespeare demonstrates the thematic concept of lies within Hamlet. The theme is used to place emphasis on the concept that the truth always triumphs over a lie. This is demonstrated as several characters within the play lie to society, lie to a friend, lie to a family member and even lie to their self. Shakespeare organized Hamlet in such a way that majority of the lies are stated through the beginning of the play and then exposed as the plot progresses. The meaning of the play in reference to the theme is that no lie will ever overcome the truth.
“Though yet of Hamlet our dear brother’s death/The memory be green, and that it us befitted/To bear our hearts in grief and our whole kingdom/To be contracted in one brow of woe,/Yet so far hath discretion fought with nature/That we with wisest sorrow think on him/Together with remembrance of ourselves” (1.2.1-7).
King Claudius manipulates the society into believing that he is mourning over the loss of his brother, while instead he is rejoicing over the power that he has gained. Claudius explains to the civilians that although the death of his “dear brother” occurred recently, the time of grief has passed and it is now time to move on and be happy as he and Gertrude, celebrate their wedding. Claudius’ cunning personality is expressed by his specific choice of words. For example, he describes the sorrow that he experiences for the loss of his brother as wise. Through this choice of words, he explains that he is demonstrating sorrow in the smallest possible way. Claudius lied to society about grieving over his brother’s death. His lie is exposed as the play progresses and the ghost of King Hamlet explains to his son Hamlet, the details of his death as a murder performed by Claudius. Although Claudius lied to several civilians, the truth quickly prevailed and his true personality was revealed.
“You were sent for, and/ there is a kind of confession in your looks which your/ modesties have not craft enough to color. I know the/ good king and queen have sent for you.”(2.2.274-277)
The concept of lies is continually demonstrated through the actions of friends. It is often understood that true friends are always there when needed and able to decipher one’s feelings solely based on their physical emotions and actions. It is evident that Hamlet’s friends, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are not his true friends. They are told to visit Hamlet by his mother and uncle, who are concerned about Hamlet’s recent behaviour. Hamlet automatically questions the presence of his friends and quickly sees through their lies. Although Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are consistent in their lie that they solely came to visit Hamlet, he is able to quickly discover the truth. Shakespeare demonstrates that a lie can be spoken by anyone, including someone close to you. However, no matter the situation, the truth will always find a way to become exposed, whether is happens naturally or synthetically is dependant on those involved in the situation. Hamlet uses his knowledge to decipher whether Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are telling the truth or a lie, instead of letting the lie become exposed naturally.
Part 2 of 2
ReplyDelete“And in part him, but,” you may say, “not well./But, if ’t be he I mean, he’s very wild./Addicted so and so.—” And there put on him/What forgeries you please. Marry, none so rank/As may dishonor him. Take heed of that./But, sir, such wanton, wild, and usual slips/As are companions noted and most known/To youth and liberty” (2.1.17-24).
Shakespeare continues to demonstrate how those who are close to you are often those who lie the most you. He demonstrates this through the relationship of Polonius and Laertes. Polonius is characterized as protective and loving but also manipulative and sneaky. This is demonstrated as Polonius gives Laertes his blessing to return to France, but later gives orders to Reynaldo to spy on Laertes. Polonius clearly lied to Laertes about having his blessing to leave for France, seeing that he does not trust him. He then finds himself having to send his servant to spy on his son by making lies about his behaviour and reflecting on the reactions of those who know Laertes. Polonius’ lie about Laertes having his father’s blessing becomes aware to the reader through Reynaldo’s secret task. Their relationship is portrayed as weak since Polonius cannot tell his own son his truthful opinion on his departure. This demonstrates Shakespeare’s emphasis how those who are close to you, such as your own blood related family, can deceit you.
“And for his death no wind of blame shall breathe,/But even his mother shall uncharge the practice/And call it accident”(4.7.66-68).
The thematic concept of lies is also demonstrated through King Claudius’ relationship to Hamlet. Seeing that Hamlet has the knowledge and capability of exposing King Claudius, he is willing to do anything to kill him and ensure the security of his throne and power. Claudius devises a plan to kill Hamlet; however, in his plan everyone would believe that his death was accidental. Claudius, having lied about how he became King, is also willing to lie about the cause of Hamlet’s planned death. His lie is then exposed in Act 5 as Gertrude is poisoned by the drink that was reserved for Hamlet. Gertrude exposes Claudius’ plan by stating, “No, no, the drink, the drink!—O my dear Hamlet!/The drink, the drink! I am poisoned.”(5.2.305-306). Claudius’ plan was destined to fail because it was based on a lie. If the truth always prevails, the plan had no chance for success from the moment it was thought. Claudius demonstrate how after one lie is told, another must be used to cover it up, and the cycle continues. The vicious cycle ends when the truth prevails and all lies are exposed.
“As I perchance hereafter shall think meet/To put an antic disposition on” (1.5.179-180).
The emphasis placed on the concept of lies is demonstrated mainly though Hamlet. In order to plan the revenge on Claudius for killing his father, he decides to put on an ‘antic disposition’. This madness is not who Hamlet truly is. Hamlet feels so passionately about his plan that he becomes caught up in the state of madness and loses the connection between who he truly is and the act of the antic disposition; he begins to live a lie. This extreme lie becomes exposed in Act 3, when he tells his mother, Gertrude to make it clear to Claudius that he is not actually mad, “Make you to ravel all this matter out:/That I essentially am not in madness/But mad in craft.“ (3.4.187-190). The task of taking revenge over Claudius causes Hamlet to, in a sense, lose his sanity. Shakespeare demonstrates the most serious lie through the main character by expressing the possibility of lying to oneself. Ultimate greatness is found in the truth and through the lack of truth within the plot of Hamlet, the characters find themselves suffering the most extreme consequence, death.
PART 2
ReplyDelete“Why, she would hang on him as if increase of appetite had grown by what it fed on; and yet within a month- Let me not think on’t- Frailty, thy name is women- A little month, or ere those shoes were old with which she follow’d my poor father’s body, like Niobe, all tears-why, she- Oh God, a beast that wants discourse of reason would have mourn’d longer- married with my uncle, my father’s brother- but no more like my father than I to Hercules. Within a month, ere yet the salt of most unrighteous tears had left the flushing in her gallad eyes, she married- O most wicked speed. (1.2.143-156). After Gertrude remarried to Claudius, Hamlet was angered at his mother’s quick remarriage. Though King Hamlet was everything to Gertrude, after he died, Gertrude was quick to remarry, and eventually forgets about him. This contributes to the theme of how life can be so easily forgotten after death; even if King Hamlet was dear to Gertrude, even he is a very important person in her life, he was still forgotten.
“What piece of work is a man, how noble in reason, how infinite in faculties, in form and moving how express and admirable, in action how like an angel, in apprehension how like a god: the beauty of the world, the paragon of animals- and yet, to me, what is this quintessence of dust? Man delights not me.”(2.2.299-304).In this quote, Hamlet praises mankind for being a dominant species, full of intelligence and conscience, and yet, when we die, we turn to dust, we are reduced to the lowest on earth, dirt and dust. But Hamlet despises what kind of human beings we had become (due to the problems he had to deal with recently), saying that “men do not interest him”.
Hamlet
ReplyDeleteThe Meaning of Existence PART 1
In Hamlet, Shakespeare focuses on the protagonist of the play, Hamlet, and his continuous search for answers. Hamlet is trapped in the theocratic society of Denmark with a unified belief, thus making it impossible for him to have any exoteric perspective on the decisions that he makes or the events that take place. Shakespeare uses the character of Hamlet to show his journey to find the meaning of his own existence. Through these tribulations and confrontations, he is forced to realize there is another viewpoint to life rather than the monotonous outlook the society possesses. Through the progression of the story, Hamlet’s character transforms into an existential thinker. He is the living proof of a person who discovers the true meaning of his life through his personal experiences and revelations that he faces. From the death of his father to his final fencing match with Laertes, Hamlet is aware that the consequences he faces are his choices and reflect what he deemed to be correct and wrong. Shakespeare illustrates Hamlet’s choices lead him to become an existential character. Existentialism stresses the individual's unique position as an autonomous cause accountable for the authenticity of his or her choices, resulting in the appropriate outcomes. Shakespeare reveals the message that one’s final destination in his journey not only depends on divine intervention, however also in the decisions and choices that one decides to make in their life. Instead of depending on religious aspects of his life, he doesn’t take them into consideration and even wishes that they didn’t exist so that he can do what his emotions are pressuring him to do instead of listening to his logical thinking and social conditioning from society. Shakespeare brings an alternate understanding of life to the audience of England through Hamlet’s story and the reoccurring theme of the alternate meaning of existence.
Quote #1: “O that this too too sullied flesh would melt/thaw and resolve itself into a dew/or that the Everlasting had not fix’d/his canon ‘gainst self-slaughter. O God! God!/How weary, stale, flat and unprofitable/seem to me all the uses of this world!” (I.ii.129-134)
In the above quote, Hamlet reveals his true feelings towards the recent occurrences in his life. In his first soliloquy, he describes his suicidal thoughts to the audience. Shakespeare shows that Hamlet is holding his personal emotions back as suicide is seen as a morally wrong act. If it were up to him, he would take his own life, and it is this thought that displays he is not depending on his own decisions, rather on the society’s perspective of the sin that he wants to commit. Hamlet’s personal thoughts rebel against society. Shakespeare shows how Hamlet has no free expression in his life, as he is pressured to follow what is considered to be correct by his religion. He disregards his conscious feelings and adheres to the logical thinking that the society forces upon him. Though it is a drastic example, it indicates Hamlet’s desire to make his own choices and accept the consequences that they may foretell.
Part (1/2)
ReplyDeleteHamlets predominant theme of revenge manifests itself in probably one of the most important characters in Shakespearian writing. For Hamlet, it evolves around the impulse he has to kill Claudius. What’s different about Hamlet that not all other characters have is his patience in going through with the murder. A lot of the other characters act blindly out of emotion; anger and sadness so to speak. Hamlets revenge, however, is much more complex because it is guided by his rationality, rather than his emotions. It even contains some moral and religious aspects, and of course, a great deal of responsibility, where of course he agreed to carry a vow to exact vengeance for his father’s demise. Upon recognizing that the cause of his father’s death was Claudius, he remained composed and did not immediately want to put Claudius to the sword, but rather verified the ghost’s credibility. He even hosts a modified play to test Claudius’ conscience.
Overall, Shakespeare’s thematic “message” in regards to the theme of revenge is that, ironically, revenge can lead to terrible consequences not from the act itself, but by delaying. For instance: Hamlet considers killing Claudius while praying. He does not though, because he believes his soul will rise to heaven. As a result, Polonius is slain, Ophelia is slain, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are slain, Laertes is slain, Gertrude is slain, and most unfortunately, Hamlet himself is slain.
At the same time, the play suggests that revenge should not be carried out impulsively without some rational consideration. For example, after discovering the death of Polonius and Ophelia, Laertes swears to avenge his fallen family. However, in the middle of commotion and blinded by anger, he is easily manipulated by Claudius. This ultimately leads to his own downfall when he is killed by his own poisoned blade.
Its interesting to note that this was in fact Shakespeare intention; to highlight the diligence of Hamlet, inserting factors into the play that call attention to his procrastination.
-HAMLET-
[Haste me to know ’t, that I, with wings as swift
As meditation or the thoughts of love,
May sweep to my revenge.
(1.5.29)]
It is ironic that Hamlet mentions the swiftness of his actions, as fast as a person falls in love. He at first is blinded by anger too, but somewhere along the line, decides to linger and lie in wait for an opening, even though several occasions have exposed themselves. As he waits for the Ghost to progress his story and name a murderer, all he can do is desire a vengeance, regardless of the individual. However as we know, when it is revealed to Hamlet that the killer is Claudius, he poses differently to the situation.
Part 1 : Steve Suh
ReplyDeleteIn William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet, the main protagonist suffered from a tendency to procrastinate. This procrastination is eventually revealed to ne the tragic flaw in Hamlet’s character. The presence of procrastination in the play serves as a way to show what kinds of devastating effects it can lead to. This procrastination is the reason for the several unfortunate events that happen throughout the play. The death of some of the characters that are close to Hamlet is just an example of what his procrastination can lead to. In the play Hamlet also continuously puts off murdering King Claudius which happens throughout the entire course of the play. This also eventually leads to Hamlet’s own death.
To put an antic disposition on - / That you, at such time seeing me, never shall, / With arms encumber’d thus, or this head – shake, … (1.5.180 – 184)
In act 1 scene 5 Hamlet meets his father (as a ghost) and is informed about how Hamlet’s father was murdered by Claudius. This resulted in Claudius becoming the new King of Denmark. After Hamlet was informed of this, he vows to get revenge on King Claudius by murdering him. Hamlet decided that he will put on an antic disposition (making himself look crazy) while he tries to accomplish his revenge plot against King Claudius. But truth is, by Hamlet putting on an antic disposition it only hinders him further in obtaining his goals. Throughout the play Hamlet is mentioned to show signs of craziness around the castle and to the people around him. In act 3 scene 4 Polonius was slain by Hamlet because Polonius was spying on Hamlet due to the fact that Hamlet was acting crazy. Later on in act 4 scene 3 King Claudius makes the decision to ship Hamlet away to England because of the murder of Polonius and King Claudius was worried about Hamlet’s craziness. It can be seen that Hamlet’s procrastination is at fault for making somewhat of an excuse to use his antic disposition to waste time. This antic disposition that spawned from Hamlet’s procrastination led to Polonius’ death, which would have not happened if Hamlet did not act crazy in the first place. Plus because of this antic disposition, Hamlet was shipped away to England for quite some time which led to Hamlet wasting even more time for his revenge plot. Hamlet’s antic disposition causes more harm than good for him.
Part(2/2)
ReplyDelete-HAMLET-
[May be the devil, and the devil hath power
T' assume a pleasing shape. Yea, and perhaps
Out of my weakness and my melancholy,
As he is very potent with such spirits,
Abuses me to damn me. I’ll have grounds
More relative than this. The play’s the thing
Wherein I’ll catch the conscience of the king.
(2.2.561)]
This quote contains a very important argument within the play: whether or not Hamlet’s madness is faked, or if he actually adapted insanity and is crazed. He implies the devil is trying to trick him, while he lies in his weakened melancholy state. Though it does suggest his care of the delicate plot for revenge, it also shows that he is truly weakened and crazed, as he insinuates he is prone to hallucinations.
-LAERTES-
[To cut his throat i' th' church.
(4.7.123)]
Ironically, this quote is almost the opposite of Hamlet’s mentality. Hamlet chooses not to kill Claudius in a holy and sacred place; Laertes chooses to do otherwise. Not only does this illustrate Laertes thirst for vengeance taking over his religious, moral, and ethical judgment, but it further enhances the foil he is intended to be towards Hamlet- rather than being patient, act now. It is seen now that Laertes does not have a strong will.
-HAMLET-
[Why yet I live to say “This thing’s to do,”
Sith I have cause and will and strength and means…
…To hide the slain? Oh, from this time forth,
My thoughts be bloody, or be nothing worth!
(4.4.43)]
As Hamlet observes Fortinbra’s army, he contemplates to himself the reason as why he himself does not kill but procrastinates, and a whole army will go out to fight to the death over a small piece of land worth almost nothing. This is considered a critical point in the play where Hamlet decides to stop waiting and desires an immediate thirst for revenge.
-HAMLET-
[I could do it easily now. He’s praying now. And now I’ll do it…
…The king’s trying to cure himself with prayer, but all he’s doing is keeping himself alive a little longer.
(3.3.74)]
As stated previously, Hamlet’s decision not to kill Claudius was purposely religious. He does not want to kill Claudius immediately, for his soul might go straight to heaven; instead, he will kill Claudius while he lies in the midst of sin. Another interesting thing to note is that if Hamlet was to have overheard the confession by Claudius while he was praying (since Hamlet had only entered after Claudius’ prayer), one can assume that Hamlet would have in fact killed Claudius on the spot, for there is no further need to question the validity of the Ghosts confession. He is as well oblivious to the fact that Claudius’ soul cannot rise to heaven, as his repentance is illegitimate: if he was truly sorry for what he had done, he would give up his throne and all he has unrightfully taken.
With that being said, can it be argued that Hamlet really is procrastinating? Or is he doing what he needs to do to set things right and avenge his father?
Part 2 : Steve Suh
ReplyDeleteTo be, or not to be, that is the question: /whether ‘tis nobler in the mind to suffer/ The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,/ Or to take arms against a sea of troubles/ And by opposing end them. To die - - to sleep,/ … The fair Ophelia! Nymph, in thy orisons/ Be all my sins remember’d.
(3.1.56 – 90)
This is just one of the few soliloquies that Hamlet mentions in the play. There is no doubt that throughout the play Hamlet is characterized as a very deep and psychological person. He constantly asks questions about the meaning of life and corruption in society. He also questions if there really is a higher power out there that determines fate. In this soliloquy Hamlet is discussing about the topic of life and suicide. He asks himself if it is better to live or to just end his life. He also mentions what would happen to a person when they die. This soliloquy (and the other ones which Hamlet addresses) is just another example of how Hamlet’s procrastination is present and shown in his character. In all of Hamlet’s soliloquies he keeps on addressing on several different topics about how he sees life in general. In this regard Hamlet thinks way too much and as a result it hinders his progress for his revenge plot against King Claudius. You would think that for a person that can think this much would already have done something about his own situation. I decided to select this soliloquy because I felt that it best showed how much Hamlet really thinks, this soliloquy is a prime example of how much Hamlet contemplates about in his own thoughts. Over thinking and his lack of action makes Hamlet’s plan to murder King Claudius move at a snail’s pace. In (2.2.534 – 592) Hamlet has a soliloquy about how he has a plan to see if King Claudius truly did murder King Hamlet or not. The plan ends up as a success and the results ended with Hamlet knowing for sure that King Claudius truly did murder Hamlet’s father. So what is stopping Hamlet from killing Kind Claudius now? He already knows that he performed the murder. Why does Hamlet have more soliloquies after this one later on during the course of the play? In (4.4.31 – 66) Hamlet has another soliloquy about him making up his mind to actually perform the murder when he could have done so anytime earlier. It is because of Hamlet’s procrastination that he does not go forth and murder King Claudius right away. This over thinking on Hamlet’s part to murder King Claudius results in the deaths of some of his loved ones. (His mother and Ophelia) If only Hamlet’s procrastination did not make him to think so much and take his time to murder King Claudius, the death of innocent people could have been avoided.
PART 3
ReplyDeleteQuote #4:
“O from this time forth/my thoughts be bloody or be nothing worth.” (IV.iv.65-66)
After Hamlet witnesses Fortinbras’ passion for revenge, Hamlet’s character becomes aggressive and determined. He is ready to seek revenge on Claudius and stops idealizing, and is ready to put his plan into action. Instead of trusting what he thinks is the right thing to do, he begins to realize that his own decisions and choices are what are going to take him farther in his quest for vengeance. He finally understands the importance of making your own decisions and basing your choices on your personal view on what is right and wrong instead of depending on what is universally seen as correct. He disregards the religious perspective that used to force him to control his emotion, and is ready to listen to what he wants. This is Shakespeare’s method of demonstrating another perspective to his audience instead of the accepted one that everyone feels pressured into following. He shows how Hamlet is successful in taking his revenge - however his procrastination leads to his downfall. If he had consistently followed his emotions, he would have been able to seek revenge and perhaps survive. Shakespeare illustrates that Hamlet’s character finally understands that there are more paths than just one to the desired destination. By making his own and personal choices, he is able to discover his personal meaning of existence and understand his purpose in life rather than focusing on what his meaning of life is pressured to be.
Quote #5:
“To what base uses we may return, Horatio! Why, may/not imagination trace the noble dust of Alexander till ‘a/find it stopping a bung-hole?
...No, faith, not a jot, but to follow him thither with/modesty enough, and likelihood to lead it. Alexander/died, Alexander was buried, Alexander returneth to dust, the dust of this earth, of earth we make loam, an why/of that loam whereto he was converted might they not/stop a beer barrel?
Imperious Caesar, dead and turn’d to clay,/might stop a hole to keep the wing away./O that that earth which kept the world in awe/should patch a wall t’expel the winter’s flaw.” (V.i.187-189, 191-200)
The final quote is Hamlet’s realization of the truth of the world. No matter how rich someone is, or how classy they are, or even the power they posses, everyone ends the same way, and withers to dust. No dust is finer than the other – from a physical perspective, they all become equal. Hamlet accepts these truths of the world and realizes that no matter what is right or wrong or whoever is seen as good or evil, they all end up in the same place, and in the same state. This proves Shakespeare’s message to follow what your emotions and personal experiences tell you to do rather can conforming into the social conditions that are expected of a citizen. Through individual and personal choices, one’s final destination can be fulfilled instead of listening to other’s perspectives. It is futile to follow the accepted understanding of life – find your own meaning to life by making your own decisions. There is no reason for someone’s perspective or judgment to hold you back from your personal journey. It doesn’t matter what you choose, in the end, you are both ending up at the same place. Shakespeare’s thematic message is confirmed in this scene when Hamlet finally finds his meaning of existence and Shakespeare has successfully proven that society’s preferences are not the only right choices, in fact it is relative to the personal journey that everyone may go through.
Part 3 : Steve Suh
ReplyDeleteTo take him in the purging of his soul,/ When he is fit and season'd for his passage? /No!/
Up, sword; and know thou a more horrid hent:/ When he is drunk asleep, or in his rage,/
Or in the incestuous pleasure of his bed; /At gaming, swearing, or about some act /That has no relish of salvation in't; /Then trip him, that his heels may kick at heaven, /And that his soul may be as damn'd and black / As hell, whereto it goes. My mother stays: /This physic but prolongs thy sickly days. (3.3.87 – 96)
This is the point in the play after Hamlet performed his plan to see if King Claudius murdered King Hamlet or not. The plan ended up as a success. With this information in tow, Hamlet finally makes the decision to go along with his revenge plot against Claudius in reasurrence that he was the culprit for his father’s death. After all the thinking and planning mentioned in the previous scenes for murdering King Claudius, Hamlet finds himself in a perfect position to kill him in this scene. But hamlet does not. Instead, he draws back his sword and gives an explanation why he will not slay Claudius while he is praying with his back turned to Hamlet. (In the quote mentioned above, Hamlet states that if King Claudius was to be murdered now, then he would just go to heaven with his sins cleared) This Action on Hamlet’s part seems very peculiar because he was so determined to kill King Claudius. This “reason” for not wanting to murder King Claudius is just another excuse for Hamlet, as it is right now Hamlet looks like he is all talk. This entire situation is a perfect example of Hamlet’s procrastination in effect. Even after all this talk Hamlet still waits and delays his execution of his plan to murder King Claudius. This result in a series of unfortunate events that could have been all avoided if Hamlet just killed King Claudius. In the next scene right after this one, Hamlet unintentionally murders Polonius and that resulted into Ophelia snapping and ending up mad, and eventually dead. In act 4 scene 7 King Claudius is still alive and manipulates Laertes to help him murder Hamlet. (But even this results into the deaths of Hamlet, Laertes, and King Claudius at the end of the play). All of these devastating events could have all been prevented if only Hamlet did not let his procrastination get the better of him.
Part 4 : Steve Suh
ReplyDeleteThere, on the pendent boughs her coronet weeds /Clambering to hang, an envious sliver broke; /When down her weedy trophies and herself /Fell in the weeping brook. Her clothes spread wide; /And, mermaid-like, awhile they bore her up: / Which time she chanted snatches of old tunes; / As one incapable of her own distress, /Or like a creature native and indued / Unto that element: but long it could not be /Till that her garments, heavy with their drink, /Pull'd the poor wretch from her melodious lay /To muddy death.
(4.7.172 – 183)
Even though Hamlet is the one suffering from a tendency to procrastinate, this does not mean that this character flaw only affects him in a negative way. Hamlet’s procrastination starts to show signs of negative effects towards other people around him also. Ophelia is a great example of how this procrastination resulted in her death. In (3.3.87 – 96) Hamlet did not murder King Claudius. As a result Polonius (King Claudius man adviser) is still spying on the King’s requests to keep a close eye on Hamlet. (Since Hamlet was putting on an antic disposition) Polonius ends up getting slain by Hamlet as a result, and this unfortunate event finally tips Ophelia over the edge. Ophelia ends up in a state of madness due to her father’s death. The Queen in this quote is informing Laertes and King Claudius of Ophelia’s death in the river. The death of Ophelia and Polonius contributes as a factor for Laertes to help King Claudius to get revenge on Hamlet later on near the end of the play. Hamlet might be the person that procrastinates in the play, but this tragic flaw that is built into his character results in so many negative results that not only affect him, but for others as well. If Hamlet just went through with his plan in the beginning without so much thinking and antic disposition, (which can be said that both of these factors spawned from Hamlet’s procrastination) then he could have gotten rid of King Claudius in no time. Also another reason why procrastination is a tragic flaw for Hamlet (besides the fact that it results into his own death) is that the two people he loved the most (Queen Gertrude and Ophelia) were killed as an unfortunate result.
Part 5 : Steve Suh
ReplyDeleteO, I die, Horatio;/The potent poison quite o'er-crows my spirit: /I cannot live to hear the news from England; /But I do prophesy the election lights /On Fortinbras: he has my dying voice; /So tell him, with the occurrents, more and less, /Which have solicited. The rest is silence. (346 – 351)
This quote comes from the last scene of the play. The devastation and havoc that Hamlet’s procrastination is shown blatantly in this final scene after all of the drama is finished and the dust settles. Hamlet’s revenge plot does resolve at this point in the play. Hamlet was successful in murdering King Claudius for what he had done to King Hamlet, but at what cost? Along the entire course of the play Hamlet’s procrastination for executing his revenge plot resulted in the deaths of many. Polonius, Ophelia, Queen Gertrude, and Laertes were all unfortunate victims to Hamlet’s procrastination. In the quote mentioned above we can all see that even Hamlet could not escape his procrastination even to the very end, since it was the tragic flaw in his character that resulted in his own untimely death. The thematic message of the play that Shakespeare is trying to get across in this last scene about procrastination is evident. Even though it would seem that when a person procrastinates it looks like it is their own problem. But in reality we must think of the bigger picture instead, which is that it can affect any one of us directly or indirectly. Even King Claudius shows signs of procrastination at a certain points throughout the play. In (4.3. 58 – 68) “And, England, if my love thou hold'st at aught--/As my great power thereof may give thee sense, /Since yet thy cicatrice looks raw and red /After the Danish sword, and thy free awe / Pays homage to us--thou mayst not coldly set / Our sovereign process; which imports at full, / By letters congruing to that effect, /The present death of Hamlet. Do it, England;
/For like the hectic in my blood he rages, /And thou must cure me: till I know 'tis done, /Howe'er my haps, my joys were ne'er begun. King Claudius is characterized as a man that is manipulative and extremely crafty. Why would he send Hamlet to another country to be killed when he could do it himself? (The way King Claudius is characterized in the play, this should be no problem for him) King Claudius even goes as far as to create another plan to kill Hamlet by having him drink a “chalice for the nonce, whereon but sipping, /If he by chance escape your venom'd stuck, /Our purpose may hold there.” (4.7.160 – 162) This plan results in the death of Queen Gertrude because she drinks the chalice without knowing that is was poisoned. This unfortunate even happened because King Claudius also procrastinated just like Hamlet. If only King Claudius took matters into his own hands to kill Hamlet, another innocent person would not have died.
Mr. Saraccini, every time I post them, one of the 3 keep disappearing, I'm so confused..
ReplyDeleteIdunnno how to use thisssssssssssss
ReplyDeleteTopic: Revenge (1/3)
ReplyDeleteIn Hamlet, Shakespeare unleashes a revenge plot in which the young Prince Hamlet targets the current King, his uncle Claudius, with hopes to avenge his father’s murder. He faces and contemplates many dilemmas, concluding that the death of his uncle is fit retribution. As a result, Hamlet attempts to act upon his vengeful notions. On the other hand, the King and Laertes scheme against Hamlet; the King due to the threat Hamlet poses to his position as well as the chaos he has caused within the kingdom, and Laertes, because of Hamlet’s role in the death of his father Polonius and sister Ophelia. All of the characters’ motives for revenge support the theme that revenge involves a difficult process which reveals the inner nature and true personality of the character seeking vengeance. Shakespeare demonstrates the agony and struggles associated with the plotting of revenge through the fear of the potential consequences, juxtaposed with the self-assurance that revenge is crucial. The intricacy of revenge is further challenging due to the need of determination, courage, and the ability to plan strategically. This leads some characters to acknowledge newly developed or discovered personal attributes, and others to be further developed by Shakespeare.
#1) “…I’ll have these players / Play something like the murder of my father / Before mine uncle. I’ll observe his looks. / I’ll tent him to the quick. If he do blench, / I know my course.” (2.2.581-585)
Careful planning of the plot is the fundamental step towards revenge. It would be difficult to prepare acts of vengeance without picturing it in advance. In order to achieve a satisfying and self-fulfilling result, Hamlet plans his first step in his quest for revenge. He orders the actors visiting the kingdom to put on a performance that reenacts Claudius’ murder of King Hamlet. He hopes to establish the guilt of Claudius through this play because its success will direct his route and persuade him to continue on his journey towards revenge. This quote shows Hamlet’s attention to detail and his precision in serious matters such as vengeance. His sincerity and focus towards the plot shows that he has developed a strong motive which is determined to pursue.
but u can check out my blog cuz thats where my informal essay thing is:D cuz i actually dunnno how to use this
ReplyDelete(2/3)
ReplyDelete#2) “…If his occulted guilt / Do not itself unkennel in one speech, / It is a damned ghost that we have seen, / And my imaginations are as foul / As Vulcan’s stithy. Give him heedful note. / For I mine eyes will rivet to his face, / And after we will both our judgments join / In censure of his seeming.” (3.2.79-85)
Revenge is initiated by an act that affects someone personally, causing the victim to deem harsh consequences towards the initiator. Hamlet was told of Claudius’ actions by the ghost of his father’s spirit, a doubtful source of information. Nevertheless, he continues to scheme.
This quote takes place just before the performance by the actors. It reveals Hamlet’s doubt towards the credibility of the ghost. His planning and progression with the murder allowed readers to assume that he truly believed the ghost’s words, but in fact, he was doubtful of the ghost’s existence all along. Hamlet is so confident in the effectiveness of his plan that he believes if Claudius’ guilt is invisible, the ghost will be blamed for the failure. Without the reassurance that revenge is essential, a plot of vengeance cannot progress.
#3) “And so have I a noble father lost, / A sister driven into desperate terms, / Whose worth, if praises may go back again, / Stood challenger on mount of all the age / For her perfections. But my revenge will come.” (4.7.25-29)
For a scheme of revenge to advance, it must have one primary factor- the force and incentive to get payback. Hamlet is not the only character in the play scheming; Laertes also has a potent drive for revenge against Hamlet, the person most linked to Polonius’ death and Ophelia’s madness. Laertes’ love for his family is revealed through this quote as he describes his father as the most loyal, and his sister as the perfect person. With bitterness and despise, he affirms that he will get his revenge. Furthermore, Laertes clearly shows his strong will and passion as he says, “I’m lost in it, my lord. But let him come. / It warms the very sickness in my heart / That I shall live and tell him to his teeth / “Thou diddest thou.” (4.7.54-57). From this quote, it is shown that nothing will stop Laertes from getting revenge and reveals to the readers that he is a passionate and determined man, not just an obedient son as seen before in the play. Revenge would be impossible without the motivation and force such as that of Laertes.
(3/3)
ReplyDelete#4) “…Now, whether it be / Bestial oblivion, or some craven scruple / Of thinking too precisely on th' event— / A thought which, quartered, hath but one part wisdom / And ever three parts coward—I do not know / Why yet I live to say “This thing’s to do,” / Sith I have cause and will and strength and means / To do ’t.” (4.4.39-46)
Acts of revenge are often petty and harmless but in “Hamlet”, the characters are involved with much more complicated and serious issues involving crimes such as murder. Hamlet’s plan to murder his uncle, the King, is challenging in many aspects physically, mentally and emotionally. The stress and anxiety that the revenge plot creates makes it more difficult for Hamlet to carry it out, causing the murder to be continuously delayed. In this quote, Hamlet critically assesses his progress and finally realizes that he is the one to blame for the hindrance. He understands that he is fully capable of performing the murder, but does not do so due to his cowardliness and animal-like thoughtlessness. Reflecting on his revenge has allowed Hamlet to discover these new personal attributes. His lack of confidence makes readers question Hamlet’s internal strength and whether or not he will finally perform the murder.
#5) “…Oh, for two special reasons /.../ The queen his mother / Lives almost by his looks, and for myself— / My virtue or my plague, be it either which— / She’s so conjunctive to my life and soul, / That, as the star moves not but in his sphere, / I could not but by her. The other motive / Why to a public count I might not go, / Is the great love the general gender bear him, / Who, dipping all his faults in their affection, / Would, like the spring that turneth wood to stone, / Convert his gyves to graces—so that my arrows, / Too slightly timbered for so loud a wind, / Would have reverted to my bow again, / And not where I had aimed them.” (4.7.9-24)
The complexity of revenge grows as the need to consider the aftermath and consequences of the plan is introduced. King Claudius wants to get revenge on Hamlet for the threat he poses to his position and the disorder in the kingdom caused by his acts of madness. Previously, the King had shown his manipulative manner, selfishness and guilt in different circumstances. In this quote however, he discusses with Laertes that he could not seek revenge on Hamlet and punish him for his behaviour for two reasons; one because of the Queen who cherishes her son and the other because of the general public who admire Hamlet and would go against the King if he was to be punished. The King’s love for the Queen is reemphasized as he describes how he doesn’t want to hurt her by punishing her son. This further reveals another aspect of the King’s personality to be quite fearful and discouraged. He understands that because the people of Denmark admire Hamlet, the King would be the one criticized if Hamlet is disciplined. His inability to take direct action against Hamlet shows that he is in fact worried of the consequences he may have to face.
check out ma blogggggggggggggggggggg:
ReplyDeletehttp://mmmikah.blogspot.com/2011/11/yeah-revenge-sucks.html
wow ive always wanted to have a blog:D
William Tsang
ReplyDeletePart 1/3
At one point or another, revenge is a course of action that one may choose to pursue. Whether motivated by anger or motivated by someone, an inkling of vengeance may seep through. Allowing this inkling to spread is not without its consequences. In William Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet, this idea is planted in the minds of three main characters. Shakespeare allows his characters to take revenge on those who have wronged them. Hamlet, Laertes, and Claudius all set out with the goal to take revenge by killing another person; however, more are hurt than any of them ever intended to. In Hamlet, revenge is like a double-edged sword; one can exact their revenge but it is not without inflicting harm on others around them.
The effects of Hamlet’s revenge are first to be examined. After seeing his father’s ghost, Hamlet’s course of action means for him to simply kill Claudius and get his revenge, yet more than just Claudius is harmed. When Polonius hides behind the arras to spy on Queen Gertrude and Hamlet, he responds to the queen’s cry of help and reveals his position. In an instant, Hamlet thrusts his rapier into the arras. The queen immediately asks him:
[Queen]: O me, what hast thou done?
[Hamlet]: Nay, I know not.
Is it the king?
Lifts up the arras and discovers Polonius, dead.
[Queen]: O what a rash and bloody deed this is! (3.4.25-27)
By the hands of Hamlet, Polonius is slain. Hamlet does not set out to kill Polonius; it is not until he lifts the arras that he realizes that King Claudius is not behind it. Polonius is killed simply because Hamlet was under the intention that he was killing Claudius. As Queen Gertrude states, this sudden attack is a rash decision, one made in the spur of the moment. Hamlet is blinded by the rage for Claudius and does not think through the consequences of his actions. In trying to exact his revenge on King Claudius, Hamlet unintentionally kills Polonius.
William Tsang
ReplyDeletePart 2/3
One of the immediate repercussions that come with Polonius’ murder is the mental state of Ophelia. Having being forced to leave Hamlet and then later shunned by him, Ophelia is in a fragile state. This fragility is then shattered by news of her father’s death. In her unstable state, she sings: “And will ‘a not come again?/ And will ‘a not come again?/ No, no, he is dead,/ Go to thy death-bed,/He never will come again.” (4.5.186-190). The fact that she is perceived as mad and singing about her father’s death means that Hamlet’s accidental killing of Polonius has sent shockwaves that resonate to Ophelia. Although Hamlet was angered by Ophelia, his intention was never to drive her to madness and her eventual suicide. What starts out as an attempt to kill Claudius leads his once-lover to her watery grave.
A father slain and a daughter drowned, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are the next pair of characters to be caught in Hamlet and Claudius’ crossfire. Unlike the repercussions of Ophelia’s death, Hamlet knows of the dangers that present Rosencrantz and Guildenstern’s persistent meddling. After revealing to Horatio that he sent a letter to the King of England which indicates Rosencrantz and Guildenstern should be killed, he says to Horatio that: “’Tis dangerous when the baser nature comes/ Between the pass and fell incensed points/ Of mighty opposites.”(5.2.60-62). What Hamlet says here is that it is dangerous for people to come between a fight between “mighty opposites”, Claudius and himself. This unwanted interference ultimately leads to their death because Hamlet cannot exact his revenge if he is constantly hounded by the king’s pawns. In an attempt to finish his revenge on Claudius, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are killed.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWilliam Tsang
ReplyDeletePart 3/3
Like Hamlet, Laertes’ revenge also ends up hurting much more than his intended target. Laertes receives help from King Claudius to avenge his father, Polonius. To accomplish this, King Claudius poisons Hamlet’s chalice and the tip of Laertes’ rapier. Queen Gertrude offers a drink from the chalice to Hamlet, who refuses. Instead, the queen herself takes a drink from the envenomed chalice. As the effects take place:
[Queen]: No, no, the drink, the drink! O my dear Hamlet!
The drink, the drink! I am poison’d. [Dies
[Laertes]: …Thy mother’s poison’d.
I can no more. The king – the king’s to blame. (5.2.303-304,313-314)
Laertes’ revenge is mostly orchestrated by Claudius. Of course, the chalice was never intended for the queen. Claudius intended the chalice to be for Hamlet when he tires from the fight. In trying to kill Hamlet, Claudius instead sends his beloved wife to the grave. This goes to show that even the most thought out plans can go awry, killing those closest to one’s heart.
Queen Gertrude is the first character to get caught up in Laertes’ revenge on Hamlet. The second is also quite an unlikely target; it is Laertes himself. During the scuffle between himself and Hamlet, their rapiers are exchanged. Hamlet gains possession of the envenomed rapier and wounds Laertes, effectively poisoning him with his own poison. As the poison sets in, Laertes comes to a realization: “The treacherous instrument is in [Hamlet’s] hand,/ unbated and envenom’d. The foul practice/ Hath turn’d itself on me. Lo, here I lie,/ Never to rise again.” (5.2.310-313). It is here that Laertes realizes that in following Claudius’ plan, he has gotten himself killed. Much like a double edged sword, or in this case a double edged rapier, Laertes gets his revenge on Hamlet, but ultimately, he meets his end with the very same sword.
MADNESS- PART 1
ReplyDeleteThe topic of madness is developed by William Shakespeare into a more complex theme with the play, Hamlet, given that it is both real and feigned. Hamlet's antic disposition complicates the play. Shakespeare confuses his audience and leaves the play’s atmosphere as uncertain and doubtful. The sheer ambiguity of Hamlet’s mental state and irregular behavior leaves a debate: does Hamlet truly go "mad" or is it all an act? Shakespeare’s thematic message with regards to madness, given the way he develops the topic in the play, is that there are different ways to show, portray, or achieve madness. Several characters in this play help portray Shakespeare’s theme for madness. Hamlet achieved his madness after seeing his father’s ghost, who told him that King Claudius was the one who murdered King Hamlet. King Claudius stumbled to madness due to his violent behavior and power hunger because he murdered King Hamlet, and now he has to get rid of Hamlet in order to keep all his power and wealth. Ophelia's clear drop into madness cracks under the strain of Hamlet's abuse and the death of her father, Polonius. Shakespeare uses the theme, madness, to help elaborate on what he thinks is the meaning of life and how one’s mind works. Shakespeare describes how the consequences of disguising oneself are so complex that it gradually influences reality, ultimately establishing itself on the personality of the character. Instead of showing that when one becomes mad, one will be treated differently and without respect, Shakespeare immediately tells his audience that Hamlet is putting on an antic disposition.
1. OPHELIA
My lord, as I was sewing in my closet,
Lord Hamlet, with his doublet all unbraced;
No hat upon his head; his stockings foul'd,
Ungarter'd, and down-gyved to his ancle;
Pale as his shirt; his knees knocking each other;
And with a look so piteous in purport
As if he had been loosed out of hell
To speak of horrors,—he comes before me.
LORD POLONIUS
Mad for thy love?
OPHELIA
My lord, I do not know;
But truly, I do fear it.
LORD POLONIUS
What said he?
OPHELIA
He took me by the wrist and held me hard;
Then goes he to the length of all his arm;
And, with his other hand thus o'er his brow,
He falls to such perusal of my face
As he would draw it. Long stay'd he so;
At last, a little shaking of mine arm
And thrice his head thus waving up and down,
He raised a sigh so piteous and profound
As it did seem to shatter all his bulk
And end his being: that done, he lets me go:
And, with his head over his shoulder turn'd,
He seem'd to find his way without his eyes;
For out o' doors he went without their helps,
And, to the last, bended their light on me. (2.1.1)
Ophelia is truly terrified by Hamlet's messy appearance and disturbing behavior in this passage (2.1.1). Since Polonius has forced Ophelia to stop seeing Hamlet and to reject his letters, he is convinced that Hamlet is "mad for [Ophelia's] love" (1.2.8). Hamlet is shown as an extremely stressed character in this moment because he is feeling rejected and betrayed by Ophelia. Taking into consideration of Hamlet's plans to antic disposition, Hamlet acts and looks identical to one who is mad. At this part of the play, the debate of whether Hamlet is truly mad or whether it is all an act comes up. This confuses the audiences because some argue that at this point, Hamlet knows that Ophelia will report his behavior to her father, Polonius, who will then share the information with King Claudius. Others would argue that Hamlet is purposely playing the role of a mad lover. This can be the consequence of Hamlet disguising to be mad, which ultimately influences reality.
MADNESS- PART 2
ReplyDelete2.How strange or odd soe'er I bear myself,
As I perchance hereafter shall think meet
To put an antic disposition on
(1.5.58)
This quote takes place after the ghost tells Hamlet that King Claudius has murdered his father. Hamlet begins to plan his revenge and warns Horatio that he will put on an antic disposition. Hamlet's "antic disposition" is very persuasive. Audiences and readers come to a conclusion, that Hamlet's sanity is absolutely ambiguous. Shakespeare notifies his audiences that Hamlet is putting on an antic disposition, which is a strange way to plan for revenge, from the beginning of the play, so the audiences can debate on whether Hamlet has truly gone mad or if he is only putting on an act. This quote foreshadows Hamlet slowly letting his antic disposition sink in to reality, and becoming part of his true self. If Hamlet were thought of as truly mad, then his entrances and his exits could suggest no meaning, except the lesson to avoid madness.
3. I have heard of your paintings well enough
God hath given you one face,
and you make yourselves another: you jig,
you amble, and you lisp,
you nick-name God's creatures, and
make your wantonness your ignorance. (III.i.144-48)
Hamlet’s thoughts and feelings towards women are tainted due to the marriage of King Claudius and Queen Gertrude. Hamlet feels that it is unacceptable for his mother to remarry his uncle after such a short period of time following the death of his father, King Hamlet. Hamlet’s hatred towards women is shown through his conversations with Ophelia, who has rejected his love. Based on the letters and gifts Hamlet gave his once-cherished Ophelia, it is obvious that Hamlet once did love Ophelia, and most likely felt those feelings of sweet devotion that his father felt for his mother. However, because Hamlet did not want to be like his father, who cannot get revenge on his disloyal wife, and that all the love in him has truly vanished; Hamlet turns all his hatred towards Ophelia and destroys her with cruelty. This action creates ambiguity of whether Hamlet is actually mad or not. Shakespeare uses Ophelia to further challenge Hamlet’s insanity. Some argue that Hamlet has actually gone mad because if he truly loved Ophelia, he would not be as cruel. Some argue that Hamlet is just putting on an act to let King Claudius and Queen Gertrude know that what they have done is morally wrong and improper.
MADNESS- PART 3
ReplyDelete4. Hamlet: Lady, shall I lie in your lap?
Lying down at Ophelia's feet.
Ophelia: No, my lord.
Hamlet: I mean, my head upon your lap?
Ophelia: Ay, my lord.
Hamlet: Do you think I meant country matters?
Ophelia: I think nothing, my lord.
Hamlet: That's a fair thought to lie between maids' legs. (III.ii.111-20)
Hamlet is unable to control his own thoughts and feelings. This demonstrates his madness because he hates Ophelia one moment and desires to engage in sexual intimacy with her the next even though he is not expressing his love for Ophelia. Although he does not, this time, speak with her with cruelty, he is once again heartlessly mistreating her with humiliating and disrespectful behavior. Hamlet obviously is using Ophelia to further his facade of insanity -- his actions are clearly for the benefit of old Polonius, who already believes that Hamlet has gone mad for want of Ophelia's love.
5. O, that this too too solid flesh would melt
Thaw and resolve itself into a dew!
Or that the Everlasting had not fix'd
His canon 'gainst self-slaughter! O God! God!
How weary, stale, flat and unprofitable,
Seem to me all the uses of this world!
(1.2.5)
Hamlet desires for his "flesh" to "melt" and dissolve into "dew" in this quote. This shows his grief over his father's death and his mother's remarriage to his uncle, King Claudius. Hamlet's thoughts here show mental and emotional instability. He wishes to commit suicide but realizes he cannot because of his religion and faith. Although this scene occurred before Hamlet decides to put on his antic disposition, it demonstrates that Hamlet thinks negatively and is possible to have mental disorder. Shakespeare shapes Hamlet as a depressed, miserable character, which allows his audiences to believe that Hamlet has the potential to become truly mad as a consequence of disguising himself as insane.
Diego Varela
ReplyDeleteMadness
Part 1
There is a state of mind, when one loses all rational thought and reason, and is replaced by raw emotion or insanity. This is madness. In Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the theme of madness is present throughout the entire play, and in many of its characters. For example, Hamlet, after seeing a ghost of his deceased father, (which already arouses suspicion of madness in the first place) vows to avenge his father by acting mad. As the play progresses, it becomes difficult to tell whether Hamlet is acting mad, or if he actually has gone mad. Would a rational man, upon hearing an eavesdropper behind a curtain, draw his sword and stab whoever was without knowing who it was? Ophelia goes mad with grief after she hears of her father’s death, brought on by Hamlet himself. She later commits suicide in a pond. Laertes, after hearing this as well, goes mad with rage as well, vowing revenge to all who were involved. This brings up as key point Shakespeare is trying to make about madness: that it is easy to fall into, and extremely difficult to get out off. Once one has fallen to madness, it not only affects him or her, but everyone around them as well. Everything, everyone, is connected, and every choice affects everyone else. In Hamlets case, his madness affects Claudius, which leads him to make corrupt choices, like sending Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to basically spy on him, eventually leading to their deaths. He affects his mother, forcing her to contemplate about the choices she made, forcing her to feel his pain. He affects Ophelia, sending her into madness by killing her father, and commits suicide later on. Ophelia, in turn, affects Laertes, who, upon seeing her in this state, solidifies his plans on revenge. Quotes that reinforce the idea that madness is easy to fall into and affects everyone can be found throughout the play.
“To hell, allegiance! Vows to the blackest devil! Conscience and grace, to the profoundest pit! I dare damnation.”(4.5.130-132) Laertes learns of his father’s murder, and storms into the palace, walks up to the face of the King, and yells at him, demanding answers. In those times, such an act of disrespect towards the King could easily land you a trip to the gallows, but Laertes, in his rage-induced madness cares not. Laertes is presented as a caring, loving son and brother, very smart, but all of that is undone by a single act of madness. This plunges Laertes into madness as well, leading to the eventual deaths of himself, Hamlet, the King, and the Queen.
“My lord, as I was sewing in my closet, Lord Hamlet, with his doublet all unbraced, no hat upon his head, his stockings fouled, ungartered and down-gyved to his ankle, pale as his shirt, his knees knocking each other, and with a look so piteous in purport as if he had been loosed out of hell to speak of horrors, he comes before me.”(2.1.77-84) This is the first moment we hear of Hamlet being mad, but is this an act, or legitimate? Ophelia had just rejected Hamlet, and this might have sent Hamlet over the edge. If he wasn’t mad before, this must be the moment that the madness really gets to him.
Diego Varela
ReplyDeleteMadness
Part 2
“Frailty, thy name is woman” (1.2.146) This quote is a great example of madness. Hamlet is disgusted at his mother’s quick remarriage, and now has a negative attitude and mindset towards all women. His inability to think rationally at this moment or at any other part of the play proves his madness. This view on women he has eventually leads to his confrontation on Ophelia and his mother, and in both situations he acted harsh, rash, and insensitive. His rant at Ophelia was a big part in her descent to madness and death, which led to an even more enraged Laertes, leading up to both their deaths.
“Go to, ill have no more on it, it hath made me mad. I say we will have no mo marriage. Those that are married already-all but one- shall live; the rest shall keep as they are.”(3.1.146-149) in this conversation with Ophelia, Hamlet lets out most of the rage building up inside him, and in his rage-fuelled madness, makes a bold statement: no more marriages. He wants to get rid of all marriages because of one experience with a girl. He also makes a death threat against the King, no doubt. But Hamlet once again fails to think rationally and wants to make an irrational decision based on one experience. This rant at Ophelia set her on the path to madness, and in turn set off a chain of events leading to the death of Hamlet, Laertes, the King, Queen, and herself.
“Your sisters drowned, Laertes” (4.7.164) Ophelia killed herself, and madness is to blame. Ophelia had gone mad with grief and maybe guilt after Hamlet ranted at her and upon hearing that he killed her father, albeit in an act of madness. Hearing this, Laertes goes mad with grief and anger. He was so in grief that he asked the grave keeper to pile dirt over him on top of Ophelia’s grave. Her death also increased his fury at Hamlet, who is to blame. This leads up to a final confrontation between the two, leading to both their deaths.
Part 1
ReplyDeleteOne of the most noticeable themes that can be found throughout the duration of Hamlet is the theme of corruption. The lies and deceitful intentions introduced in the beginning of the play evolve into espionage and murderous, unethical plots as Shakespeare uses these characters and their unscrupulous actions to build upon the underlying theme of corruption and send his audience a message. Through this play Shakespeare is able to indirectly express his opinions on how it seems that corruption has managed to embedded itself so deeply into society that acting in a underhanded manner is our natural and instinctive reaction. Through the characters in this play Shakespeare shows just how willingly and naturally people turn to using corrupt methods to accomplish their goals, but also places empathizes on the fact that in doing so we create chaos and disunity under which no one prospers. The theme of corruption is first introduced into the play when we learn that King Claudius is responsible for the death of his brother -the prior King- and has now taken to the throne and married the queen. This corruption then spreads throughout the kingdom, as Shakespeare suggest that it has in society, as more people begin to lie, spy, and make secret plans. The Kingdom continues on this corrupt path as the characters begin to plot each other’s death and concludes with all the main characters dying as a result of their dishonourable intentions as Shakespeare tries to show that acting in a corrupt, manipulative manner is detrimental to society and will ultimately backfire on those who act in such a way.
1st Quote: Hamlet
“ Fie on’t, ah fie, ‘tis an unweeded garden/That grows to seed; things rank and gross in nature/Posses it merely.” (1.2.135-137)
This quote is important because introduces the topic of corruption. Here Shakespeare compares life, society, and the corruption within them to an “unweeded garden”. In these lines spoken by Hamlet, Shakespeare voices his first thoughts on the matter by saying that corruption has found its way into society and now like a weed is rapidly spreading and turning everyone’s morals gross and repulsive. At this point in the play we are not yet aware what act planted the first seed of corruption into the Kingdom of Denmark, only that the King married his late brothers wife very quickly after his brothers death, and that his concern towards Hamlet appears to be falsely genuine. By including these lines Shakespeare is hinting that though the kingdom that was once full of flowers is being taken over wild, and ugly weeds.
2nd quote: Ghost
“ Thus was I, sleeping, by a brother’s hand/Of life, of crown, of queen at once dispatach’d/Cut off even in the blossoms of my sin” (1.5.74-76)
These lines are important, as is the whole description of King Hamlet’s death because they show us where the corruption in the kingdom originate. This is the first seed in the garden from which all the other weeds sprouted and it is from here that Shakespeare begins to develop the theme. From these lines and the others spoken by the ghost in this scene we learn that Claudius seduced his wife and then murdered King Hamlet. Upon hearing about this nefarious act, Hamlet himself begins to develop corrupt habits as he starts to think about getting revenge for his father by murdering the current king. Thus Shakespeare’s idea that corruption is contagious and spreads swiftly is here developed.
Part 2
ReplyDelete3rd quote: Polonius
“ My Lord, do as you please,/But if you hold it fit, after the play/Let his queen-mother all alone entreat him/To show his grief, let her be round with him,/And I’ll b plac’d, so please you, in the ear/Of all their conference.” (3.1. 180-185)
Here we see that Shakespeare has taken the theme of corruption to a new level. What began with malevolent thoughts and intentions has now grown to include spying on one another and secret plans to manipulate the truth out of someone- in this cause that someone being Hamlet. We must also recognize that the corrupt behaviour instigated by Claudius has now been picked up by Hamlet, Polonius, the Queen, and Ophelia who earlier in this scene, aware of her father’s intentions, approached Hamlet so that Polonius and the King, who were hidden, could eavesdrop on their conversation. This is just one example of the multiple plans made by characters through out play to trick one another into revealing information. These plans are an important development of the theme because not only do they reinforce Shakespeare’s message that corrupt actions lead to more corruption, but also shows that as this unethical behavior spreads, the severity of it increases. The corruption in the play has now developed from baleful thoughts to dishonourable actions.
4th quote: Laertes and Claudius
“ I will do’t/
And for that purpose, I’ll anoint my sword/. . ./With this contagion, that if I gall him slightly,/It may be death.” (4.7.139-148)
“Let’s further think of this,/. . ./And that he calls for drink, I’ll have prepar’d him/A chalice for the nonce, whereon but sipping,/If he by chance escape your venom’d struck,/Our purpose may hold there.” (4.7.148-162)
By this point in the play almost every character has been touched by the hands of corruption and logical, moral thinking have become scarce. Claudius is planning to kill his son in law (Hamlet) and Laertes a friend of sorts to Hamlet plans to help. Hamlet has sent his two friends Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to their death, and the corruption within the castle appears to have caused Ophelia to commit suicide. This quote is significant because it shows just how much corruption has become a part of Denmark’s society as Laertes and Claudius can so calmly plot the death of a man they both know and feel no wrong in doing so. This relates to Shakespeare’s thematic message that corruption is so much a part of society that people don’t even recognize it because it is so natural and common a thing.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletePart 3
ReplyDelete5th quote: Laertes
“Hamlet, thou art slain./No medicine in the world can do thee good;/In thee there is not half an hour’s life./The treacherous instrument is in thy hand,/Unbated and envenom’d. The foul practice/Hath turn’d itself on me. Lo, here I lie,/Never to rise again. Thy mother’s poison’d/I can no more. The King- the king’s to blame.” (5.2.307-314)
These lines are extremely critical for understanding the second half of Shakespeare’s thematic message. From these we see the result and the consequences of implementing corrupt, immoral actions to obtain our goals. Claudius planted corruption in the Kingdom when he killed his brother for his power and his wife, and watered the garden throughout the play by spying, and planning Hamlet’s death. Hamlet was corrupted upon hearing how his father really died and went from being a sad boy who lost his father to a murderer, desperate for revenge by the end. Laertes, the Queen, and Ophelia all allowed themselves to be warped by the corruption surrounding them. Laertes by planning Hamlet’s death in revenge for killing his father, the Queen by marrying Claudius and participating in the Kings spying on Hamlet, and Ophelia by rejecting Hamlet and allowing her father to use her to fulfill his immoral plans. All of these characters subsided to corruption and contribute to the chaos and disunity in the play. Shakespeare uses these characters to show his audience, that in trying to achieve our goals through immoral actions we only create havoc and dysfunction in society.
6th quote: Horatio
“And let me speak to th’yet unknowing world/How these things came about. So shall you hear/Of carnal, bloody, and unnatural acts,/Of accidental judgements, casual slaughters,/Of deaths put on by cunning and forc’d cause,/And, in this upshot, purposes mistook/Fall’n on th’inventors’ heads.” (5.2.372-378)
I am including this sixth quote in my analysis because I feel in these lines Shakespeare is speaking through Horatio to conclude some the themes found in the play. This quote in relation to corruption speaks of the immoral acts such as the killings both planned and casual and the crooked unprincipled thinking that causes “accidental judgements” to develop. These lines outline all of the shameful acts committed during the play due to the contagious corruption plaguing the kingdom of Denmark and adds to the second half of Shakespeare’s thematic message. Through this play Shakespeare is not only trying to show that corruption has deep roots in our society, but also that it only causes more trouble and ultimately comes back to punish those who were not strong enough to resist subjecting to it in the first place. The corrupt behaviour of the characters in Hamlet “Fall’n on th’inventors’ heads” is seen in the play by the death of all the characters that failed to resist corruption: Hamlet, Claudius, Gertrude, Laertes, Polonius, Rosencrantz, Guildenstern, and Ophelia.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWilliam Shakespeare’s revenge-filled and tragic Hamlet is known to be the most understandable plays in English literature. The characters within it are relatable people, even with today’s generation. One noticeable theme within Shakespeare’s Hamlet is procrastination. Essentially, when faced with important tasks and decisions in his life, Hamlet chose to put them off, or procrastinate, which would lead him to severe consequences such as his death. What Shakespeare is saying in this play regarding procrastination is that it can never lead to positive results. With various examples from Hamlet’s actions, procrastination is proven to take a negative toll on his life. Beginning with first procrastinating killing Claudius in the chapel and ending with his death, Hamlet’s life was filled with procrastination, which he has only himself to place the blame on. Ultimately, the procrastination that Hamlet has demonstrated throughout the play expresses his lack of commitment and how cowardly he truly is; nothing good can come from procrastination in this world.
ReplyDelete1. “When he is fit and season’d for his passage? No. Up, sword, and know thou a more horrid hent...” [3.3.84-88]
At this very moment in Hamlet’s life, he is in the position in which he must avenge his father’s death that Claudius, his uncle, caused. Hamlet finds Claudius in prayer, asking for forgiveness, and is in motion to kill his uncle. However, Hamlet chooses to procrastinate this act for a time where Claudius is in a suffering state. Because of Hamlet’s procrastination in this particular moment, he had just triggered the deaths of almost every person that he cares about. He believed that it was the king behind the curtain when he was speaking to his mother, but it was in fact Polonius, whose death caused Ophelia’s insanity and Laertes’ need for revenge, and so on. If only Hamlet had chosen to kill the king at that very moment, his act of madness would come to an end and he would have completed the task of revenge as requested by his father. This shows how Hamlet had a lack of commitment to his father’s wishes and how he lacks respect, or piety, for his father.
2. “Get thee to a nunnery, farewell. Of if thou wilt needs marry, marry a fool; for wise men know well enough what monsters you make of them. To a nunnery, go – and quickly too.” [3.1.137-140]
In this moment, Hamlet is telling Ophelia, daughter of Polonius, of how he never loved her and to go to a nunnery to remain chaste. Hamlet is in denial of his true feelings for her, and is more or less procrastinating telling her how he feels. Although this is an act out of his madness that he has been told to portray, Hamlet somehow seems to believe the words that he is saying. Hamlet is showing how he can have no true commitment with Ophelia, and is afraid to tell her his true feelings, thinking that it could ruin his entire revenge plot. With this in Ophelia’s mind, she begins to lose faith in Hamlet and, later on, everyone else around her.
3. “To be, or not to be, that is the question...[3.1.56-90]
Hamlet’s most famous soliloquy is essentially about his contemplation between continuing to live his life or to end it with suicide. However, it can also be interpreted that because of all of his contemplation about life in general and how philosophical he is about this subject, he is in fact procrastinating his task of revenge. He is putting aside killing the king and pondering on the...(1/2)
Part 1:
ReplyDeleteThe corruption in Hamlet is the result of the tangled web of woven lies and the betrayal that takes place in Denmark. William Shakespeare puts these two concepts together to show that one is nothing without the other. Shakespeare’s message about corruption is that, corruption is like an infectious and complicated disease. Once the disease starts to spread, it cannot be stopped. With symptoms like lies and betrayal, corruption takes over the individual and controls their mind, until they are driven to madness or succumb to death. Shakespeare shows that corruption causes tension and crumbles relationships, due to the trust that corruption has taken away. Shakespeare shows this theme of corruption through several of the characters; especially Claudius who believes that he can get away with murder because of the corrupt state that Denmark is in. To contrast this, Shakespeare shows Hamlet as the victim of corruption. This is shown when Hamlet compares Denmark to an “un-weeded garden” that he cannot talk freely about, as well as the fact that he is betrayed and lied to by every friend he has, except Horatio.
Shakespeare uses the death of King Hamlet and the marriage between Claudius and Gertrude as the “starting point” of the corruption that occurs in Denmark. This is because King Hamlet was murdered by his own brother Claudius who then marries his now widowed wife. “With mirth in funeral and with dirge in marriage/In equal scale weighing delight and dole/Taken to wife. Nor have we herein barr’d/Your better wisdoms, which have freely gone/with this affair along” (1.2.12-15) This quotation is to show how manipulative Claudius is, to keep up with the corruption he is causing. He persuades his audience into believing that it is completely natural to be marrying his dead brother’s wife. This contrasts the reality, where this marriage is corrupt and incestuous; which will create a lot of tension between Hamlet and his mother as well as Claudius. “My crown, mine own ambition, and my queen/May one be pardon’d and retain th’offence?/In the corrupted currents of this world/Offence’s gildd hand may shove by justice/And of’t ‘tis seen the wicked prize itself/Buys out the law” (3.3.55-60). This quotation shows that Claudius is very aware of the corruption he has caused, and is using it to his own advantage. He realizes that because he has the title of being king (the crown), his ambition and being married to the queen, he can be pardoned of his actions. Corruption has fully taken over Claudius completely and has now become a contagious disease that will infect everyone around him.
The first relationship that is strained and crumbling, is the relationship Hamlet has Claudius. The fact that he cannot trust his own family shows just how corruption is starting to infect Hamlet. “For your intent/In going back to school in Wittenberg/It is most retrograde to our desire/and we beseech you bend you to remain/Here in the cheer and comfort of our eye/Our chiefest courtier, cousin, and our son” (1.2.112-117). This quotation shows the tension that is being created between Hamlet and Claudius. Claudius denies Hamlet of his desire to go back to school, right after granting Laertes of the same desire. Claudius tries to flatter Hamlet and states that the reason he is not allowing Hamlet to leave, is because he wants his new son to be in his presence, as if he genuinely wants to spend time with Hamlet. In reality however, Claudius just wants to protect himself by keeping Hamlet close, that way he can prevent Hamlet from finding out about the corrupted murder of his father.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletePart 2:
ReplyDeleteClaudius appears to be the reason to why all of Hamlet’s relationships are being strained and are deteriorating. This is further proven as Claudius instigates the tension between Hamlet and his mother. “Next, your son gone, and he most violent author/Of his own just remove; the people muddied/Thick and unwholesome in their thoughts and whispers” (4.5.79-82) Claudius manipulates Gertrude into believing that Hamlet has left Denmark, after all that has happened, on his own accord. This causes Gertrude to believe that the reason that the citizens of Denmark are suspicious of the royal family is all Hamlet’s fault. This also causes her to think that Hamlet has betrayed her, and has left her in such a vulnerable state, as she is now dealing with Ophelia and Laertes. In reality, Claudius’ corrupted mind has forced him to believe that the only way to end this is if Hamlet is shipped off to England and is executed. Again, Claudius takes advantage of his power which will enable him to be pardoned of his decision and action. The fact that Claudius is lying within his own marriage, shows that corruption has ruined everyone individually, and their relationships with others, including his own relationship with his wife.
Hamlet starts to realize just how corrupt Denmark has become, when he finds out that his very own best friends, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, have betrayed his trust to help Claudius. “Anything but to th’ purpose. You were sent for, and/there is a kind of confession in your looks, which your/modesties have not craft enough to colour. I know the/ good king and queen have sent for you” (2.2.274-277) Hamlet is calling his two supposed friends out, even though he knows that they will not give him a straight, honest answer. After pushing the subject however, Guildenstern replies with, “My lord, we were sent for” (2.2.287). This shows that Claudius has strained this friendship, after infecting both Rosencrantz and Guildenstern with his corrupt ways. However this fails to work to the extent he wants since the two are not as corrupt as he is, and have a difficult time masking their true intentions, and tell Hamlet the truth.
The infectious disease of corruption has taken over Hamlet as he put on an act of antic disposition towards Ophelia, causing tension between them. Hamlet’s once pure affection for innocent Ophelia has turned corrupt as he finds out that she is denying him because of her controlling father’s wishes.
[Hamlet] “...But now the time gives it proof. I did love you once” (3.2.114-115)
[Ophelia] “Indeed, my lord, you made me believe so” (3.2.116)
[Hamlet] “You should not have believed me; for virtue cannot so inoculate our old stock but we shall relish of it. I love you not” (3.2.117-119)
This conversation between the two show that the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia has crumbled. This is because Hamlet, thanks to his mother, has categorized all women as being weak. And it is also because Ophelia has succumbed to her father’s demands of not pursuing a relationship with Hamlet. This corrupts innocent Ophelia, since she has been forced to be a part of Claudius’ plan in preventing Hamlet from finding out the truth. Polonius, her own father, does not even consider Ophelia’s feelings; because his mind is corrupted into thinking that the protection of his family’s name is the only thing that is important.
It is apparent that through the play of Hamlet, corruption is a complicated and consistent theme that is hard to control, just like a disease without a cure. It destroys all relationship one has, including the understanding of their identity, as their mind and heart are changed for the worse. Notably, all the characters that were infected with this contagious disease died, as it is the end result of corruption.
(2/2)...thought that he should just end his own life. Hamlet is taking no action and is demonstrating how he has no commitment to his expectations. It can also be seen that he is too afraid to complete such a task that he would rather end his own life than to kill another being.
ReplyDelete4. “The play’s the thing wherein I’ll catch the conscience of the king” [2.2.591-592]
Hamlet is planning on how he can know for a fact that Claudius did kill his brother, King Hamlet. Hamlet displays his lack of faith in the ghost of his father, and that he does not believe that his uncle killed his father without proof. Because of this belief, Hamlet is procrastinating killing his uncle as demanded by his father’s spirit. He needs proof before he acts on the request for revenge. Hamlet might have convinced himself that he does not want to kill his uncle until he has proof that Claudius is responsible for his father’s murder, but in reality Hamlet is a coward and is trying to procrastinate this task as long as possible.
5. “As I perchance hereafter shall think meet to put an antic disposition on – that you, at such time seeing me, never shall...” [1.5.179-181]
Hamlet believes that in order to conceal his plot for revenge against Claudius, his uncle, he must put on an act of madness, or an antic disposition. Although, this antic disposition that Hamlet performs is in fact an act of procrastination. He becomes so focused on convincing those around him that he has lost his mid that he is venturing further away from his goal in killing his uncle. This act of madness achieves nothing in regards to the revenge plot, and results in the death of many loved ones, including Ophelia (who suffered her own madness). It again shows how cowardly Hamlet is about the subject; he believes that he needs something to “cover up” what he is doing instead of flat out completing the task at hand.
Shakespeare’s message on madness is that it can strike you at any point on any situation. Madness struck Hamlet when his father died from his uncle’s hands and his mother remarrying his uncle. It seems that Shakespeare puts madness in most of his stories because, it is the only impact of reality that the character gets when he/she starts to drift off into fantasy.
ReplyDeleteHamlet: Quote 1
O, that this too too solid flesh would melt. Thaw and resolve itself into a dew! Or that the Everlasting had not fix'd. His canon 'gainst self-slaughter! O God! God! How weary, stale, flat and unprofitable, seem to me all the uses of this world! (1.2.129-134)
In the beginning of the play, Hamlet is stressed. Here when hamlet says his "flesh" to "melt" and dissolve into "dew" points out his anger over his father's death and his mother remarry to his uncle. Hamlet's thoughts here are suicidal and point out some mental and emotionally instability. We also know from his earlier conversation with Gertrude and Claudius that he's been in a gloomy mood.
Hamlet: Quote 2
I am but mad north-north-west: when the wind is southerly I know a hawk from a handsaw.
Hamlet discovers that his two best friends Rosencrantz and Guildenstern have been spying on him by King Claudius. Hamlet also admits the he is acting like a mad man but he also know his boundaries to his acts.
Hamlet: Quote 3
How strange or odd soe’er I bear myself, as I perchance hereafter shall think meet to put an antic disposition on.
So the ghost explains to hamlet what happens to his father and hamlet decides to assassinate King Claudius. Also in the play Hamlet warns his friends that he was going to act like a madman. Hamlet gets so caught up in his plans of assassination to his uncle and his act of a madman that he actually starts acting like a madman.
Hamlet: Quote 4
The spirit that I have seen, May be the devil: and the devil hath power to assume a pleasing shape; yea, and perhaps. Out of my weakness and my melancholy, as he is very potent with such spirits, Abuses me to damn me.
In this quote Hamlet believes that the ghost is the devil and that he is being tempted to do the ghost/devil’s evil works. Also in this scene Hamlet is very vulnerable because, he has lots of anger towards his uncle for killing his father and lots of sorrow for his fathers death.
Polonius: Quote 5
He knew me not at first; he said I was a fishmonger: he is far gone, far gone: and truly in my youth I suffered much extremity for love; very near this.
Polonius believes that he is too much in love with his daughter Ophelia. In the quote Hamlet calls Polonius a fishmonger. So now Polonius thinks that Hamlet is going mad and that’s what Hamlets plan was all about, was to make people think that he was going mad.
Corruption - Alison Mo (Part 1)
ReplyDeleteIn William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, corruption is a central theme. Shakespeare develops this into the more specific theme of the Corruption of Relationships. He depicts the change in numerous character relationships throughout the play, each of which ends in similar fashion. It is with this effective parallelism that Shakespeare conveys his thematic message in regards to Corruption in Relationship. He tells us that relationships corrupt when within them reside the selfish habits of deceiving, pursuing power, and exploiting the other’s emotions. These relationships end in the loss of trust, mutual respect, and love.
Quote 1:
Act 4, Scene 5, Lines 48-55
“Tomorrow is Saint Valentine’s day,/All in the morning betime,/ And I a maid at your window, /To be your Valentine./ Then up he rose, and donn’d his clo’es,/ And dupp’d the chamber door,/ Let in the maid that out a maid/ Never departed more.”
Act 4, Scene 5, Lines 58-66
“By Gis and by Saint Charity,/ Alack and fie for shame,/ Young men will do’t if they come to’t –/ By cock, they are to blame./ Quoth she, ‘Before you tumbled me,/ You promis’d me to wed.’/ He answers ‘So would I a done, by yonder sun’/ And thou hadst not come to my bed.’”
Analysis:
This quote spoken by Ophelia at the peak of her own madness, is in response to her romantic relationship with Hamlet. Ophelia reveals that Hamlet promised to wed her before he had taken her virginity. However, to this point he still had not married her. From this quote we know that the two were sexually active. She was naïve and says “I do not know, my lord, what I should think.” (Act 1, Scene 3, Line 104) in response to Polonius asking her if she believes Hamlet’s “tenders” or romantic gestures (Act 1, Scene 3, Line 103). Therefore, from her naïve involvement with Hamlet during which he seduced her with a broken promise of marriage, one can see that Hamlet exploited her emotions to benefit him. The result of this selfish act is a corrupted relationship that is specifically void of love.
Quote 2:
Act 3, Scene 4, Line 53-55
“...I am still possess’d/ Of those effects for which I did the murder –/ My crown, mine own ambition, and my queen.”
Analysis:
Spoken by King Claudius, this quote is a confession by the King. He exposes the three most selfish reasons for which he committed the heinous act of murder on his own brother. Claudius was driven by his pursuit for power to be king (“my crown”) and for a selfish romantic relationship with his brother’s wife (“my queen”). The result is once again corrupted relationships. The King’s relationship with Hamlet becomes one of hate and murderous plots against one another from the King’s poisoning Hamlet’s cup in Act 5, Scene 2 to Hamlet killing the King with his own poison in line 319, “Drink off this potion.” Even to the King’s death, Hamlet is bitter from the murder of his father that resulted from Claudius’ pursuit of power. He calls him an “incestuous, murd’rous, damned Dane” (Act 5, Scene 2, Line 18) before killing him. The relationship between the King and Hamlet ends with a very evident loss of mutual respect for each other. This is due to the King’s selfish deeds which did indeed, corrupted his relationship with Hamlet.
Corruption - Alison Mo (Part 2)
ReplyDeleteQuote 3:
Act 2, Scene 2, Lines 279-284
“That, you must teach me. But let me conjure you, by the/ Rights of our fellowship, by the consonancy of our/ Youth, by the obligation of our ever-preserved love, and/ By what more dear a better proposer can charge you/ Withal, be even and direct with me whether you were/ sent for or no.”
Act 2, Scene 2, Line 288
“My lord, we were sent for.”
Analysis:
Hamlet asks Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, with their loving friendship in mind, to admit that they were sent for by the King and Queen to spy on him (Lines 279-284). At last, Guildenstern admits to it (Line 288). Rosencrantz and Guildenstern have compromised their loyal friendship with Hamlet by deceiving him. In consequence, their relationship begins to corrupt and eventually, having lost trust in them, Hamlet orders their deaths through a forged King’s letter (Act 5, Scene 2). The relationship, unable to bear the strain of deceit, corrupts because of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern’s choice to foster that selfish habit.
Quote 4:
Act 4, Scene 7, Lines 110-126
“Not that I think you did not love your father,/ But that I know love is begun by time,/ And that I see, in passages of proof,/ Time qualifies the spark and fire of it./ There lives within the very flame of love/ A kind of wick or snuff that will abate it;/ And nothing is at a like goodness still,/ For goodness, growing to a pleurisy,/ Dies in his own too-much. That we would do,/ We should do when we should: for this ‘would’ changes/ And hath abatements and delays as many as there are tongues, are hands, are accidents,/ And then this ‘should’ is like a spendthrift sigh/ That hurts by easing. But to the quick of th’ulcer:/ Hamlet comes back; what would you undertake/ To show yourself in deed your father’s son/ More than in words?”
Act 5, Scene 2, Line 314
“The king–the king’s to blame.”
Act 5 Scene 2, Lines 320-324
“He is justly serv’d. It is a poison temper’d by himself./ Exchange forgiveness with me, noble Hamlet./ Mine and my father’s death come not upon thee,/ Nor thine on me.”
Analysis:
The first quote is spoken by King Claudius to Laertes. The King, like Hamlet to Ophelia, selfishly exploits Laertes’ emotions to suit his own needs. At this time in the play, Laertes has set a goal on killing Hamlet to avenge his father. The King stirs Laertes up with the thought of his father and makes the feat of Hamlet’s murder appear to be a token of his love for Polonius. The King too, wanted Hamlet dead as he was aware of his murder. In following Shakespeare’s pattern of corruption in relationships, this relationship also corrupts as a result of the selfish act of exploiting the other. Earlier, Laertes respected the King’s authority, answering “Ay, my lord,” when asked by the King, “Will you be rul’d by me?” (Act 4, Scene 7, Line 59). However, Laertes later realizes that the King has used him and that the king is to blame for the Queen’s death, Hamlet’s death, and Laertes’ death (Act 5, Scene 2, Line 314). When the King dies, Laertes turns against him, apologizing to Hamlet and saying that it was a deserved death. At this moment, it is clear that the King’s exploitation of Laertes’ emotions in the end, leads to the loss of Laertes’ respect for him. Once again, Shakespeare depicts the corruption that resulted from exploiting the other and ended with the loss of respect.
Corruption - Alison Mo (Part 3)
ReplyDeleteQuote 5:
Act 3, Scene 4, Lines 88-91
“O Hamlet, speak no more./ Thou turn’st my eyes into my very soul,/ And there I see such black and grained spots/ As will not leave their tinct.”
Act 3, Scene 4, Lines 94-96
“O speak to me no more./ These words like daggers enter in my ears./ No more, sweet Hamlet.”
Analysis:
The King, as quoted in Act 3, Scene 4, Line 53-55, says, “...I am still possess’d/ Of those effects for which I did the murder –/ My crown, mine own ambition, and my queen.” He admits to the queen being one of the reasons he murdered King Hamlet. From any perspective this act and reasoning is seen as wrong: regicide, fratricide, and pursuing a married man’s wife. In King Cladius’ selfish pursuit of Queen Gertrude, the relationship is doomed for corruption from the beginning. The end however, is what Shakespeare yet again emphasizes. When Hamlet confronts Gertrude with what he considers an incestuous relationship with Claudius, she finally gives in. It is when Hamlet shows Gertrude the pictures of Claudius and King Hamlet that she realizes the error of her ways (Act 3, Scene 4, Lines 99-91, 94-96) and begs Hamlet to stop as she cannot take the guilt. She later does as Hamlet instructs and tells the King that Hamlet is “Mad as the sea and wind when both contend/ Which is mightier.” (Act 4, Scene 1, Lines 7-8). At this point, Gertrude has realized that she truly loves King Hamlet. The act of continuing to mislead the King is significant in proving the loss of love that is taking place in her relationship with King Claudius. Finally in Act 5, Scene 2, Lines 303-304 the love between them has been completely lost when Gertrude announces, “No, no, the drink, the drink! O my dear Hamlet!/ The drink, the drink! I am poison’d.” She realizes then that the King had intended to kill her son whom she loves (“my dear Hamlet”). Much like many relationships in the play, the one between Gertrude and Claudius is corrupted from the beginning as it is the product of Claudius committing a selfish murder to pursue power and love of his own. Subsequently, his ensuing romantic relationship with Gertrude ends ironically in the loss of her love for him.
Topic: Procrastination (Part 2)
ReplyDeleteIn the play Hamlet, Hamlet used the players to prove that Claudius is truly his father’s murderer by telling them to reenact how his father died. “I’ll have grounds/ More relative than this. The play’s the thing/ wherein I’ll catch the conscience of the king” (2. 2. 590-592). This quote shows procrastination because although Hamlet found out that the one that killed his father was Claudius, he does not get his revenge right away or confront him in any way. Instead, he comes up with a plan to prove that Claudius is really his father’s murderer. This is procrastination because instead of making a plan to kill Claudius, he decides to test it out first. The inaction by Prince Hamlet leads the audience to believe that the longer he prolongs his plan, the more unlikely it is for him to go through with it. Someone irrational like Laertes in this situation would have killed Claudius without making plans to test it out first.
There was a moment where Prince Hamlet could of killed Claudius right there and then but he still didn’t do it. “ And so’a goes to heaven;/ And so am I reveng’d. That would be scann’d:/ A villian kills my father, and for that/ I, his sole son, do this same villian send/ To heaven” (3. 3. 74-78). Hamlet, in this quote, is showing procrastination because Hamlet was going to kill Claudius while he was praying. He ended up not doing so because he was thinking that if he did kill Claudius, Claudius would end up going to heaven since he just repented all his sins. At this moment, Prince Hamlet could of ended Claudius’ life but he chose to do it later. Claudius in this scene was not truly repenting so if Hamlet did kill Claudius, Claudius would most likely not go to heaven but Hamlet gave himself an excuse. This prolongs Claudius’ death and Hamlet’s initial plan to kill him. This refers to Shakespeare’s thematic message, which are the consequences of inaction. In contrast, Laertes would have killed Claudius right there and then due to his irrational behaviour. This also leads to Shakespeare’s reference to the Elizabethan era where it is a “God fearing” society. The delay of killing Claudius is because of Hamlet’s fear of God and the afterlife as shown in previous Hamlet soliloquies.
CORRUPTION (1/2)
ReplyDeleteCorruption can be defined as the destruction, ruining or the spoiling of a society or community. In William Shakespeare’s tragedy, Hamlet, there are many events that illustrate corruption as a fundamental theme. The progression of corruption develops throughout the play, leading to the deaths of many characters. The state of Denmark begins to deteriorate when King Hamlet is murdered. This is the first act of violence that leads the play on the road to self-destruction. Shakespeare takes the main causes of corruption in our society, such as selfishness and greed, and incorporates them though the characters’ thoughts and actions. Lies, madness, and revenge each play an important role in the development of a single unified theme. Hamlet’s decision to avenge his father represents humankind’s own struggle with corruption. Shakespeare combines these multiple aspects throughout the play to communicate to his audience how quickly corruption can spread.
In Hamlet’s first soliloquy, his character is very suicidal and is in a hateful state towards women as a result of his anger towards his mother and her quick remarriage. He is very suspicious about the world and the people in it. Hamlet expresses, “Tis an unweeded garden / that grows to seed. Things rank and gross in nature / posses it merely.” (1.2.135-137) Hamlet feels the world is corrupt and that nobody cares to clean it up. It introduces the theme of corruption, which is illustrated through the image of decay and describes the world itself is decaying. Although Hamlet accepts weeds as a natural part of life, he feels that the weeds have grown out of control and now possess nature entirely. Weeds can be interpreted as the evil in this world, which create a destructive environment that does not help to foster our community. If a garden remains unweeded, the weed will grow, spread, and steal the nutrition of other plants. This can be compared to our society, where the garden represents our world and the weed portrays a bad person who cause harm to others. Unless the weeds are taken out, it is very difficult to reach a peaceful world. This shows how easily corruption can spread from one person to another and affect a whole community in a negative way.
Moreover, the Ghost of King Hamlet speaks to his son and warns Prince Hamlet that his death is not what Claudius claimed it to be. The Ghost introduces the darkness of evil prevalent in Denmark when he says, “A serpent stung me. So the whole ear of Denmark / is by a forged process of my death / rankly abus’d – but know, thou noble youth, / the serpent that did sting thy father’s life / now wears his crown.” (1.5.36-40) Shakespeare uses a serpent to symbolize it as the deadly poison that causes the corruption in the city. Once bitten by a serpent, the poison can make the body decay, which is compared to how corruption makes the state of Denmark rotten. Claudius lies about King Hamlet’s death of being bitten by a poisonous snake. Ironically, Claudius is the snake that ends up poisoning and corrupting the people of Denmark. Also, we see a reference to the Garden of Eden. Claudius represents the snake that killed King Hamlet, which illustrates the connection to how the snake had tricked Eve into falling for the temptation of eating the apple. Shakespeare uses this analogy to enhance the reoccurring theme of corruption.
Topic: Procrastination (Part 3)
ReplyDeleteA moment where Prince Hamlet realizes himself that he has been procrastinating his revenge is when he meets the army. “But greatly to find quarrel in a straw/ When honour’s at the stake. How stand I then,/ That have a father kill’d, a mother stain’d/ Excitements of my reason an my blood,/ And let all sleep, while to my shame I see” (4. 5. 55-59). In this scene, Hamlet finds out that the army is fighting for a land that is worth almost nothing. He is ashamed because he cannot even kill the one that murdered his own father. Hamlet’s wondering why he has putting off this revenge for such a long time. At this situation, Hamlet realizes what he has to do but he still is not going to confront Claudius. The only thing he is telling himself to do is to be more violent and aggressive. He’s frustrated and ashamed of himself because he knows he has to kill Claudius but he’s been procrastinating all this time. Shakespeare shows that although Hamlet realizes that he is procrastinating, he continue to not do much, which will eventually lead to nothing being done.
At the graveyard, although Hamlet had a chance to confront and kill Claudius, he still lets him go after knowing that he’s delayed it for so long. “ I prithee take thy fingers from throat ,/ For though I am not splenative and rash,/ Yet have I in me something dangerous,/ Which let thy wiseness fear” (5. 1 244-247). This quote is spoken by Hamlet to the king and Laertes and he is anger-filled because he just found out that Ophelia died. Although he is full of anger, he contains that anger and lets Claudius go once again. He’s telling them that he is dangerous and this was the perfect moment to prove it but he again delays his revenge. In comparison, once Laertes saw Hamlet, he jumped on him and was about to kill him until the attendants separated them. Both of these actions would have ended terribly so Shakespeare is trying to show his audience to have a balance between the both.
CORRUPTION (2/2)
ReplyDeleteFurthermore, the Ghost explains to Hamlet, how Claudius murdered his father and that he wants Hamlet to avenge his death. The Ghost explains, “Upon my secure hour thy uncle stole / with juice of curses hebenon in a vial, / and in the porches of my ears did pour / the leperous distilment, whose effect / holds such an enmity with blood of man.” (1.5.61-65) King Hamlet is physically corrupted; his body is destroyed in the act of the murder. This illustrates the effect of Claudius’ action on the community in Denmark. The death of King Hamlet leads to the corruption of Denmark and leads to Prince Hamlet’s madness and urge to avenge his father. Firstly, King Hamlet dies because of Claudius’ greed to take over the throne and to marry Gertrude. When Prince Hamlet finds out the truth to his father’s death, he seeks revenge and plots to kill Claudius. During his mission to avenge his father, many other characters die due to Hamlet’s madness and Claudius’ manipulation. This illustrates a chain effect of how corruption can quickly expand.
Halfway through the play, we find that Claudius has instructed Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to spy on Hamlet about his change in behaviour. However, Hamlet becomes suspicious of his friends and questions them. He soon realizes that they have betrayed his loyalty. Hamlet states, “Anything but to th’ purpose. You were sent for, and / there is a kind of confession in your looks, which your / modesties have not craft enough to colour. I know the / good king and queen have sent for you.” (2.2.274-278) Later on, Claudius orders Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to take Hamlet to England with a message for him to be executed. Claudius corrupts these two characters which reveals how Claudius is the main cause of broken trust and dishonesty. Although they were good friends of Hamlet in the past, they are now his enemy as they decide to betray him and lead him to his doom. Nevertheless, Hamlet learns of their plan to betray him and quickly saves himself by creating a new letter instructing the executions of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. When they arrive to England, they are put to death instead of Hamlet. As a result, Claudius corrupts many characters in the play for his own personal greed, which also leads him to his own destruction. Corruption becomes more apparent as the play progresses and the theme of how easily corruption can spread is further developed.
Near the end of the play, Claudius plans a duel between Laertes and Hamlet, but only Laertes’ sword will have poison on the tip. Laertes plans to kill Hamlet so that he can avenge his father, which causes corruption to grow. Laertes says, “And for that purpose I’ll anoint my sword. / I bought an unaction of a mountebank, / so mortal, that but dip a knife in it, / where it draws blood, no cataplasm so rare.” (4.7.140-143) This cunning ploy to 'accidentally' kill Hamlet causes the development of corruption. Claudius manipulates Laertes to kill Hamlet and Claudius has ensured Hamlet's death by having Hamlet drink poisoned wine after scoring the first hit. Hamlet refuses the wine; however, Gertrude drinks from the cup and dies. Hamlet and Laertes have also wounded each other with the same poisonous sword. Consequently, Hamlet, Laertes, and Gertrude all died from the same poison and in the end, their bodies have been corrupted. Therefore, one evil act leads to many more unfortunate deeds that result in an overall negative outcome to everyone. Throughout the whole play, Shakespeare successfully demonstrates his message of how easily corruption can spread and ruin the lives of many.
The Meaning of Existence
ReplyDeleteBy Joanne Mau
Part 1
Intro: Why do we live and why do we die? In Shakespeare’s brilliantly written play, Hamlet, the theme of existence reoccurs gradually from beginning to end. Shakespeare develops his plot and characters through the meaning of existence, eventually revealing what he believes to be the true meaning of existence. At the beginning of the play, Shakespeare uses young Prince Hamlet, the protagonist, to present the first statement directed to the idea of life and death. Hamlet is seen throughout the play to struggle with the real meaning of existence. The first encounter with the audience and Hamlet’s first soliloquy helps develop the idea that to live is to suffer. The idea that “to live is to suffer” expands into a more specific message; that life becomes meaningless when living is just a form of suffering. This is a significant message in the play because it becomes the basis for why Hamlet is eager to avenge his father’s death and make his mother suffer from guilt. Hamlet’s character is seen to be distressed about life very often in the play. He believes that life is just another form of suffering, that life is meaningless and that he wishes he could just commit suicide. Though death sounds like a good option at the time, Hamlet is too scared to commit suicide because he knows it is a sin to do so. This further deepens the theme of life. The main theme finalizes into the idea that life is another form of suffering and it makes living meaningless, but death can never be the solution to all this suffering. Eventually by the near-end of this play, Hamlet realizes how life is better than death even if life is equal to suffering. The reality that he comes to is that death is worse than living because you do not know what comes after death. There is a potential that life after death will be even worse.
Quote #1:
http://public.iwork.com/document/?a=p1367420327&d=Hamlet_Theme_Assignment_58__Meaning_of_Life_(Quote__35_1).pages
At the beginning of the play, Hamlet is portrayed as a character who is very negative about the idea of living. This is due to his disgust in the marriage of his mother, Gertrude, and his uncle, King Claudius, not long after his father’s death. Shakespeare uses Hamlet’s character to deliver the first idea of life and death. Hamlet expresses his disgust in his mother’s quick remarriage; that Hamlet speaks of as incestuous. He is shown to express how upset and angry he is by the death of his father and the incestuous marriage of his mother and his uncle. This is the first characteristic of suffering in life that Hamlet goes through. After going through this experience of what he feels is suffering, he goes on to express how he wishes he could just die. “O that this too too sullied flesh would melt, thaw and resolve itself into a dew.” (1.2.129-130) He goes on to say “How weary, stale, flat, and unprofitable seem to me all the uses of this world!” (1.2.133-134) to show how living is equivalent to suffering; which makes life meaningless. This becomes a way that Shakespeare utilizes Hamlet’s character to express the first layer of his message. Through Hamlet’s character, we see him experience the “baby stages” of what Shakespeare believes is life.
Hey Sir just one comment.... there is no way of underlining the words so we cannot be 100% clear whether or not we are referring to Hamlet the actor or Hamlet the play... just thought I should let you know :)
ReplyDeletePART 1
Ryan D’Souza
Mr. Sarracini
2011-11-10
Hamlet Theme Assignment
A: Introductory Paragraph
Many people say “honesty is the best policy” is one of the best rules/principles to live by. In the play Hamlet written by William Shakespeare the theme of lies is one that occurs/shows up throughout. By the constant appearance of this theme William Shakespeare constantly hints to the audience that lying will take you nowhere in life. Lying will only dig you an enormous hole that is impossible to climb out. In the end the lies that you have told will be figured out, anger and hurt many people around you and eventually lead to your downfall; however in the case of Hamlet your death.
B: Quotations/Quotation Analysis
1. Why, even in that was heaven ordinant.
I had my father’s signet in my purse,
Which was the model of that Danish seal,
Folded the writ up in the form of th’other,
Suscrib’d it, gave’t th’impression, plac’d it safely,
The changeling never known. Now the next day
Was our sea-fight, and what to this was sequent
Thou knowest already. (5.2.48-55)
This quote occurs after Hamlet had discovered that Rosencrantz and Guildenstern were carrying a letter stating a death warrant and discloses his actions to Horatio. Furious with this new uncovered secret, while on the ship headed for England, Hamlet changed his name to the names of his unintelligent old companions. To relate this back to the main idea/message William Shakespeare is trying to covey, one can clearly see that due to the fact that Rosencrantz and Guildenstern lied directly to the unstable character being Hamlet, they themselves brought the wrath and revenge plot of Hamlet upon themselves determining their faith and ending their appearance in the tragic play of Hamlet.
PART 2
ReplyDelete2. Here as before, never, so help you mercy,
How strange or odd soe’er I bear myself-
As I perchance, hereafter shall think meet
To put an antic disposition on-
That you, at such times seeing me, never shall,
With arms encumber'd thus, or this head-shake,
Or by pronouncing of some doubtful phrase,
As 'Well, well, we know'; or 'We could, an if we would';
Or 'If we list to speak'; or 'There be, an if they might';
Or such ambiguous giving out, to note
That you know aught of me-this is not to do,
So grace and mercy at your most need help you. (1.5.177-189)
Hamlet informs the audience in his first soliloquy that he will be putting on an act that will make him appear like a lunatic. Hamlet’s lunacy is an act of lies, developed to draw attention away from any suspicious actions or activities he might commit as he attempts to gather evidence against Claudius to prove his is guilty of murdering King Hamlet. Hamlet’s well thought out plan demolishes many strong relationships he had with the people who were once dear to him. For example Hamlet’s relationship with Ophelia was shattered as Hamlet began being extremely rude and obnoxious towards her. In the end the lie of Hamlet actually being crazy catches up with him, and angers Laertes to the point where he take Hamlet’s life by poisoning the tip of his sword and uses it in a duel with Hamlet.
3. Inquire me first what Danskers are in Paris;
And how, and who, what means, and where they keep,
What company, at what expense; and finding
By this encompassment and drift of question
That they do know my son, come you more nearer
Than your particular demands will touch it:
Take you, as 'twere, some distant knowledge of him;
As thus, 'I know his father and his friends,
And in part him: ' do you mark this, Reynaldo? (2.1.7-15)
In this quote the audience is getting a firsthand glimpse at how sneaky Polonius can be. Polonius is sending out Reynaldo to essentially spy on his son Laertes, who prior to this seen he said he trusted. He is telling Reynaldo to go to Paris and see whether or not the rumours he had heard about his son is true. For example to find out whether or not his son is drabbing. This then stirs up a new question that if Polonius has to be so sneaky to go behind his son’s back, how could someone like this be trusted with such an important job of being the king’s adviser? Polonius was very lucky that his son Laertes did not find out about this foul action or else there would have been more drama in this play. If Laertes did eventually discover that his father is a lying, dishonest man the relationship between the two grown men would never be the same, and Laertes would have had a different reaction towards the death of his father.
PART 3
ReplyDelete4. Seems, madam? Nay, it is. I know not ‘seems.’
‘Tis not alone my inky cloak, good mother,
Nor windy suspiration of forc’d breath,
No, nor the fruitful river in the eye,
Nor the dejected haviour of the visage,
Together with all forms, moods, shapes of grief,
That can denote me truly. These indeed seem,
For they are action that a man might play;
But I have that within which passes show,
These but the trappings and the suits of woe. (1.2.76-86)
In this quote the audience can clearly see that Hamlet is a person who believes in honesty and absolutely hates liars. He says that his black clothing cannot possibly describe the true feeling he feels inside. The emotion of grief over his father’s death is far more intense than what appears to the outside world. He also implies in this quote that the love that Gertrude and Claudius have is totally fake, that they only got married to keep an image for the country. One can see that even the accusation of the court being a lie is enough to anger the emotionally unstable Hamlet. This one scene ruins the relationship between Hamlet and his mother for the entire remainder of the play. This proves Shakespeare’s message that lying will only ruin the relationships you have with those people dear to you.
5. HAMLET: ... Where’s your father?
OPHELIA: At home, my lord. (3.1.130, 131)
In this quote the audience can clearly see that Ophelia is lying straight to Hamlet’s face, who as we all know at this time is putting on his antic disposition. This quote occurs after Polonius devises a plan with Claudius to use Ophelia as bait to try and see why Hamlet’s behaviour has suddenly changed. Shakespeare’s use of dramatic irony in this situation is ingenious because it only builds to the tension and drama occurring on stage. The fact that Ophelia lied straight to Hamlet’s face shows that she cannot be trusted. If she truly loved Hamlet she would have refused her father’s demand and told Hamlet what was going on. Due to the fact that she did not refuse, Hamlet has no choice but to attack Ophelia with harsh words to punish her for her action; because of this one can conclude that this is one of the many reasons why Ophelia because a lunatic later on in the play. This relates to Shakespeare’s message of honesty because the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia was destroyed when she chose to obey her father.
One theme that Shakespeare tries to present in the play Hamlet was procrastination. This theme appears frequently throughout the play and Shakespeare develops it by the use of comparison of action versus inaction. The characters Shakespeare used to show this comparison is Hamlet and Laertes. In the play, Hamlet is characterized as a rational and well-planned person while Laertes is thought of as irrational. The results of both the character’s behaviour identifies Shakespeare’s thematic message. Hamlet shows procrastination by the constant delay in his revenge towards his father’s murderer, which also is his uncle, Claudius. Shakespeare’s thematic message with regards to the topic is that when one plans too much, they eventually end up not getting the task done. Conversely, when one is too irrational, they end up not getting the task done the best way possible. Shakespeare’s use of procrastination also ties in with the era of that time, which it the Elizabethan era. Since the England Shakespeare lived and wrote in was a “God fearing” society, the reluctance of Hamlet’s revenge is because he know its morally wrong and he’s afraid of what God will do to him if he did kill Claudius. The reason why Shakespeare chose to use the theme of procrastination in Hamlet is because he wanted to create the message that without a balance between action and inaction, too much of either one will end up as an undesirable result.
ReplyDeleteThe first time that Hamlet displays procrastination is when he decides to put on an antic disposition. This was after he found out that Claudius was his father’s murderer. “ How strange or odd some’er I bear myself-/ A I perchance hereafter shall think meet/ To put an antic disposition on-/ That you, at such time seeing me, never shall,/ with arms encumber’d thus, or this head-shake,/ or by prouncing of some doubtful phrase” (1. 5. 178-183). Hamlet is shown to be procrastinating because he knows that he has to kill Claudius but he decides to put everyone off guard first before taking action. Although, he was frustrated with anger after finding out that Claudius was actually his father’s murderer, he decides to put it off and not kill him yet. Shakespeare uses antic disposition to show procrastination because no one knows if you are faking mad or truly mad. By using this method, Claudius will not be suspicious and Hamlet can get his revenge. This shows that Hamlet is a very rational being but it does not mean he can get the job done. In contrast, when Laertes found out that Hamlet killed his father, Polonius, he instantly wanted to kill him.
The last post by me is my part 1
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThe Meaning of Existence CONT'D
ReplyDeleteBy Joanne Mau
Part 3
(Reposted due to disappearing post)
Quote #4:
http://public.iwork.com/document/?d=Hamlet_Theme_Assignment_58__Meaning_of_Life_(Quote__35_4).pages&a=p1367420327
At this point, Shakespeare wants to develop this idea of why life is better than death even if life is meaningless and is equivalent to suffering. In the play, Hamlet is seen to be distressed with the option of death. Though Hamlet speaks of how he wishes he could just die rather than live in this life of suffering, he realizes that he can never go through with the option of death. The first reason is that he knows that the act of committing suicide is a sin. “Or that the Everlasting had not fix’d His canon 'gainst self-slaughter. O God! God!” (1.2.131-132) His distress with the idea of death is not only evident through his words, but also through his actions in the middle of the play. When he gets the chance to murder King Claudius and avenge his father’s death while King Claudius is praying in the chapel, he quickly pulls away from committing the murder. The reason of this is because Hamlet realizes that he does not know what happens after death. If he kills King Claudius while he is praying, will he be sending King Claudius straight to heaven? What will his life be like after death? Hamlet eventually realizes that it is better to live than to die because the reality is that he does not know what life is like after death. If living is equal to suffering, and life after death is unknowable, it is better to live.
The Meaning of Existence CONT'D
ReplyDeleteBy Joanne Mau
Part 4 (Last of all parts)
(Reposted due to disappearing post)
Quote #5:
http://public.iwork.com/document/?d=Hamlet_Theme_Assignment_58__Meaning_of_Life_(Quote__35_5__38__6).pages&a=p1367420327
By the near end of this play, the main theme finalizes as Shakespeare shows Hamlet realizing the reality of death and why life is better than death. In Act 5 Scene 1, Hamlet is at the graveyard watching the gravedigger digging a grave and throwing away the skull of Yorick. After witnessing this act, Hamlet realizes that life after death can be even worse than life. Yorick, the King’s jester, is dead but even after his death, his life after death is not any better; if anything, worse because his skull is being thrown away like garbage. He talks about how Yorick was a very funny guy and that through his death, his jokes have disappeared along with his pranks and songs that kept everyone laughing. After his death, he does not make anyone smile or laugh anymore. Hamlet questions about whether Yorick is sad about this unfortunate event. “Where be your gibes now? Your gambols? Your songs? Your flashes of merriment that were wont to set the table on a roar? Not one now to mock your own grinning? Quite chapfallen?” (5.1.173-177) He goes on to talk about Alexander the Great. He talks about how Alexander the Great was buried, and turned to dust, dust to dirt, and dirt to mud used to stop up holes. (5.1.192-196)Then he questions about Julius Caesar. When he died, he was turned to clay and the clay might have even been used to patch up a wall. He feels that it is scary to think that somebody who used to rule the world could now be used to patch up a wall. This encounter with the gravedigger and the skull makes Hamlet realize that though life is meaningless and equal to suffering, death should never be the solution. The reality is that you will never know what comes after death and life after death can be even worse.
Terence Li
ReplyDeleteRevenge: Part 1
The concept of revenge is abstract and can be interpreted in many ways. In the wake of losing a father, the act of revenge seems compelling, honourable, and justified in the eyes of the avenger. Facing deprivation of family and a lack of purpose in life, revenge becomes a personal vocation and a duty for Hamlet because he feels Claudius must suffer for mercilessly murdering his Father, incestuously coveting his mother, and cunningly robbing him of the throne. As for Laertes, his rash and impulsive decisions lead him to think that revenge is the only viable option in order to right his father’s death, and sister’s madness. Contrastingly, Shakespeare portrays the act of revenge as unprofitable and self-destructive, through the deterioration of the morals and sanity self-inflicted by the characters seeking vengeance. The escalation of hatred in revenge destroys relationships, puts innocent lives at risk, and develops internal conflicts within the characters, ultimately leading to the death of the initiators. Shakespeare demonstrates that the malignant act of revenge, successful or not, can only lead to negative consequences in society and in the self.
1) Ghost : “Ay, that incestuous, that adulterate beast, with witchcraft of his wit, with traitorous gifts... won to his shameful lust the will of my most seeming –virtuous queen...Let not thy royal bed of Denmark be a couch for luxury and damned incest” (1.5.42-84)
Hamlet: “The time is out of joint. O cursed spite, that I was born to set it right.” (1.5.196)
Prior to the encounter with the ghost, Hamlet had lost all hope in mankind, and had become depressed. The only factor preventing him from committing suicide is his God-fearing mentality. However, once Hamlet hears the news of his father’s death from the ghost, he is motivated and determined to exact revenge on Claudius. The ghost craftily uses its cacophonous tone to compel Hamlet into avenging his dead father, with absolutely no proof concerning the validity of his anecdote. Disgusted and overflowing with rage, Hamlet’s vulnerable character is easily exhorted by the ghost resulting in Hamlet’s vow to seek vengeance. The ghost provides a sense of duty and purpose in life for Hamlet, something which he was previously lacking, when it says, “Let not thy royal bed of Denmark be a couch to luxury or damned incest”. Although seeming justified and purposeful, revenge brings out only adverse consequences in the end. This desire of revenge can be considered where the root of all mischief begins in the play. The chain effect of revenge is seen when Hamlet decides to feign madness, leading to the subsequent negative effects such as the murder of Polonius, and separation from Ophelia and Gertrude. The ghost is the starting point that ignites Hamlet’s self-destruction because in accepting vengeance, it leads to his madness, ultimately ruining his life in the process.
Terence Li
ReplyDeleteRevenge : Part 2
2) Hamlet: “I did love you once...You should not have believed me; for virtue cannot so inoculate our old stock but we shall relish of it. I loved you not.
Ophelia: “O, what a noble mind is here o’erthrown! The courtier’s, soldier’s, scholar’s. Eye, tongue, sword, Th’expectancy and rose of the fair state, The glass of fashion and the mould of form, Th’observ’d of all observers, quite, quite down! And I, of ladies most deject and wretched, that suck’d the honey of his music vows, now see that noble and most sovereign reason like sweet bells jangled out of tune and harsh,” (3.1.150-154)
Hamlet: “I lov’d Ophelia. Forty thousand brothers could not with all their quantity of love make up my sum.” (5.1.255-257)
A disastrous outcome that stems from revenge is the evident destruction of relationships, truly prominent in the one between Hamlet and Ophelia. A once loving and pure relationship between the two has been tainted by the indirect and insidious nature of revenge. In this passage, it is clear that Hamlet has fully committed himself to putting on an antic disposition in order to sift through the loyal and trustworthy from the evil and deceiving. However, this antic disposition makes Hamlet’s temperament very ambiguous, and Ophelia, stunned, concludes that the noble mind of Hamlet is “o’erthrown,” and “out of tune.” Thus, revenge leads to the separation of relationships because Ophelia seems reluctant to deal with this madness and Hamlet finds it hard to trust others – the key to a healthy relationship. Furthermore, if it were not for revenge, the advice given to Ophelia by her father and brother would have been only cautionary. Hamlet, however, helps to solidify Polonius and Laertes’ fears of him by changing his love for Ophelia continually. As a result, Hamlet inconspicuously causes his own downfall when feigning madness. The idea of revenge not only creates confusion, but also tension and complications in relationships.
Topic: Madness
ReplyDeletePart 1
In the play Hamlet, the theme of madness is demonstrated and played out throughout the events of the story. Other topics such as revenge, deceit, and corruption are also present, however, they all link back to the theme of madness. Shakespeare conveys the theme of madness through several characters, namely Hamlet and Ophelia, and their actions. From the beginning of the story, Hamlet’s plan to take revenge on King Claudius by making other people believe that he has gone mad sets the tone early on by creating an atmosphere where this mental instability dictates almost all the events that are to unfold . The theme of madness is furthermore developed as it slowly spread to everyone around Hamlet, as can be seen in Ophelia literally becoming mad when her father, Polonius, dies. Hamlet’s madness weakens his family’s and friend’s relationships which ultimately lead to the tragic conclusion of the story. The theme of madness in the story is brought out through the actions of the characters throughout the play. As the story unfolds, the situation begins to worsen along with the mental state of each of the main characters. It almost appears near the end of the story that each of the characters are fixed to the tragic outcome of the story because of what we expect of them in their maddened state of mind. And with the tragic deaths at the end of the play, Shakespeare is almost certainly trying to show his audience the result of allowing madness rule your thoughts.
Quotations
1) “Here, as before, never, so help you mercy, how strange or odd some’er I bear myself – as I perchance hereafter shall think meet to put an antic disposition on- that you, such time seeing me, never shall…” (1.5.177)
After he finished talking with the ghost, Hamlet decides to listen to the ghost and plan a revenge on his uncle, King Claudius. His plan was to act crazy around people to make them reckless. Hamlet begins his “antic disposition” to act crazy, so others will pay less attention to him. This allows Hamlet to more freely investigate and confirm his father’s murder as well as plot his revenge. Hamlet’s decision of acting crazy in his plot for revenge sets the play on its path in pursuing the theme of madness by setting the atmosphere of the play into a more chaotic one early on. Both his apparent mental state, as well as his seemingly unpredictable behaviour, continuously affect all the characters either directly and indirectly throughout the rest of the play. This in turn drives the thoughts and actions of all the characters in later parts of the play as well.
2) “My lord, as I was sewing in my closet, Lord Hamlet, with his doublet all unbrac’d, No hat upon his head, his stockings foul’d/ He took me by the write and help me hard. Then goes he to the length of all his arm, and with his other hand thus o’er his brow…and to the last bended their light on me.” (2.1 line 75-100)
After Ophelia’s encounter with Hamlet, she goes seek for her father to tell him that something is not right with Hamlet. She is very obviously shaken and disturbed by Hamlet’s erratic behaviour and as a result, she and her father believe that Hamlet has gone mad.
This all links back to the theme of madness. As Hamlet is seemingly going mad, the characters around him are being affected by his unpredictable behaviour. His original intent to feign madness in order to be able to plot his revenge without falling under suspicion ultimately becomes the device which drives people around him into an unstable mental state. In the case of Ophelia, she is deeply disturbed by Hamlet’s actions, resulting in her mental instability. This sets the stage for events that will occur later on in the story.
Terence Li
ReplyDeleteRevenge: Part 3
3) Laertes: “How came he dead? I’ll not be juggled with./ To hell, allegiance! Vows to the blackest devil! / Conscience and grace, to the profoundest pit!/ I dare damnation. To this point I stand, / that both the worlds I give to negligence/ Let come what comes, only I’ll be reveng’d/ Most thoroughly for my father.” (4.5.129-135)
King Claudius: “Not that I think you did not love your father, / But that I know love is begun by time,/ And that I see, in passages of proof,/ Time qualifies the spark and fire of it... what would you undertake to show yourself in deed your father’s son more than in words?”
Laertes: “To cut his throat i’th’church.” (4.7.110-113,124-126)
The inevitably negative effects that branch from revenge are further emphasized by Shakespeare when, in the heated discussion between Hamlet and Gertrude, Hamlet kills the innocent life of Polonius. The effects of Hamlet’s madness do not end here, but rather further sprouts more uncontrollable events when Laertes returns to Denmark. In light of his father’s murder, Laertes has become merciless and driven to retaliate and to exact revenge. Laertes’ caring and sophisticated character transforms into one that is hasty and impulsive shown with his use of harsh imagery of the devil and hell, and unrelenting tone. Laertes curses the king for the murder when he says, “conscience and grace, to the profoundest pit!” He “dares damnation” and gives “negligence” to the thought of heaven or hell proving that the God and natural laws he once feared, are no longer factors in his decision making. It is manifest that revenge is causing Laertes to neglect his morals and God-fearing, religious mentality because he will do anything to avenge his father. He further strengthens this blasphemy when he is willing “to cut [Hamlet’s] throat i’th’church.” Already angered, Claudius tempts and challenges Laertes even more when he cunningly says, “[n]ot that I think you did not love your father, but I know love is begun by time, and I see in passages of proof.” Claudius is able to divert Laertes’ hatred towards Hamlet because he says that if Laertes really loved his father he would prove it. Laertes’ blind rage becomes impulsive and defensive, thus forcing him into vengeance. The destruction and chain effects involved in revenge are evident when Hamlet’s revenge leads to Laertes’ revenge, causing him to neglect his morals and to lose his personality. Shakespeare suggests a domino effect in revenge that ceases to stop until everyone is compensated or dead.
Part 2
ReplyDelete3) “O, that this too too solid flesh would melt
Thaw and resolve itself into a dew!
Or that the Everlasting had not fix'd
His canon 'gainst self-slaughter! O God! God!
How weary, stale, flat and unprofitable,
Seem to me all the uses of this world! …O God, a beast that wants discourse of reason would have mourn’d longer – married with my uncle, My father’s brother/ She married – O most wicked speed…But break, my heart, for I must hold my tongue.”(1.2 129-159)
Hamlet starts becoming mentally unstable after finding out about his mother’s remarriage to his uncle not so long after the death of his father. Hamlet is obviously distraught in this quote, and expresses that he’d wish his flesh would melt into a dew from the anguish that he’s enduring at the moment. His discomfort with the situation and his anguish over his father’s death leaves him mentally vulnerable and unstable.
Hamlet expresses his frustration towards his father’s untimely death and his mother’s hasty remarriage to his uncle, the new king. This quote sets the mood of the play by establishing early on the main character’s unstable mental state. This discomfort that Hamlet feels, along with the knowledge of who murdered his father, eventually drives him to plot revenge against his uncle and results in the madness that is causes the tragedy at the end of the story.
4) Horatio warns Hamlet that the ghost is an evil spirit tempting Hamlet into suicidal madness. “What if it tempt you toward the flood, my lord, or to the dreadful summit of the cliff/ Which might deprive your sovereignty of reason and draw you into madness?” (1.4 line 69-78)
Horatio and Marcellus brought Hamlet to see the ghost. As the ghost appeared infront of them, it beckons Hamlet to follow it. Horatio tries to warn Hamlet to not follow the ghost because it might be just his own hallucination. However, Hamlet ignores his warning and follows the ghost. Horatio’s warning foreshadows that Hamlet will later on in the play will end up becoming mad because of his encounter with the ghost. At this point of the play, a hint of madness is present. It is slowly building up to the madness that will be clearly stated later on in the play. It links to the quote
“The spirit that I have seen
May be the devil: and the devil hath power
To assume a pleasing shape; yea, and perhaps
Out of my weakness and my melancholy,
As he is very potent with such spirits,
Abuses me to damn me:” (2.2 585-590)
Throughout the play the ghost’s presence is noticed by hamlet, but it is only at the first sighting of the ghost that others are aware of its presence. In the scene later on in the play where hamlet is conversing with the ghost while in the presence of his mother, only hamlet is able to see the ghost, and so the queen believes that by that point that Hamlet has truly gone mad. This whole relationship that Hamlet has with this mysterious spirit possibly is intended to show that Hamlet becoming is truly descending into insanity. In the quote presented above, even Hamlet begins to suspect that the ghost might be the devil that is luring him into killing King Claudius. Hamlet’s dismissal of his own insanity by continuing his plan shows that even though he is aware of the possibility that he is being misguided, in his closed off maddened state, he only wants his revenge. This links back to Shakespeare’s emphasis on how madness, ultimately drives our decisions and actions, and eventually leading us down a self-destructive path such as the one taken by Hamlet.
Terence Li
ReplyDeleteRevenge: Part 4
4) Laertes: “Hamlet, thou art slain. No medicine in the world can do thee good; In thee there is not half an hour’s life. The treacherous instrument tis in they hand, unbated and envenom’d. The foul practice hath turn’d itself on me. Lo, here I lie, never to rise again. Thy mother’s poison’d. I can no more. The king – the king’s to blame...Mine and my father’s death come not upon thee, Nor thine on me.” (5.2.307-324)
Hamlet: “Heaven make thee free of it. I follow thee I am dead.” (5.2.325)
One of the most obvious yet disheartening outcomes of revenge in this play is death. In the process of revenge, innocent people also become victims. The course of Hamlet’s revenge took on many tangents before completing its final goal of killing Claudius. His feigned madness leads to a debatable true madness, which in turn leads to the death of Polonius and Ophelia. Similarly, the death of Gertrude portrays a significant loss of innocent blood because although she is not the intention of either revenge, she unwittingly dies through the poison meant for Hamlet. Furthermore, the persuasiveness in both Claudius and the apparition fuel the naive impulses of young Hamlet and Laertes, causing them to think irrationally and immorally. This passage shows that both the avengers are willing to forgive -- which could have precluded all this tragedy -- but do not even consider it until their emotions have calmed. Evidently, revenge elicits selfishness and stubbornness in the characters because they only want to repent before they die and after they have nothing to live for. This proves that revenge obscures the avengers from moral evaluation and leads them blindly into hateful revenge as the only viable option. Ironically, their means of satisfaction through revenge self-destruct because they are killed in the process, tragically ending the play.
Terence Li
ReplyDeleteRevenge: Part 5/5
5) Hamlet: “I am myself indifferent honest, but yet I could accuse me of such things that it were better my mother had not borne me. I am very proud, revengeful, ambitious, with more offences at my beck than I have thoughts to put them in. What should such fellows as I do crawling between earth and heaven?” (3.1.122-128)
Through Hamlet’s madness and confrontation with Ophelia where they discuss the goodness in humanity, Hamlet’s character comes to a realization that leads to an internal conflict. At first the prospect of revenge is appealing, making Hamlet feel that revenge is the only method to justify his father’s murder and to bring satisfaction. Shakespeare emphasizes that although revenge is fulfilling to Hamlet’s desires, this satisfaction is transient, and certainly happiness will not be evoked. This is apparent in Hamlet’s pessimistic diction where he wishes that “[his] mother had not borne [him],” suggesting that existence is not worth the burdens of revenge. This passage reveals Hamlet’s acceptance of the truth of revenge and the vices that stem from it. Hamlet questions the purpose of life if all he lives for is these vices of pride, ambition, and vengeance. Therefore, the vocation that revenge instils is only temporary because after revenge, there is no goal or target and as a result remorse sets in.
(1/2)
ReplyDeleteMadness is the state of mind where it is unstable and abnormal. William Shakespeare wrote “Hamlet” with madness as the heart of the play; he incisively used both real and fake madness to advance the plot. Shakespeare develops the theme of madness by having madness drive the play forward and adding complexity to certain situations. Madness exists in almost every major character; including King Claudius, Queen Gertrude, Laertes, Ophelia, and last but most important, Prince Hamlet. Most of these characters develop madness from the loss of a loved one; each of their own madness contributes to their own death. Hamlet’s madness began when he lost his father, driving him to near suicidal. Laertes also experiences the loss of his father, but reacts completely different from Hamlet. While they both seek revenge, Hamlet manipulates madness to his own advantage; whereas Laertes became consumed by his own madness to the point of mindlessness. However as the plot developed, Hamlet’s state of mind eventually became much more complex as his feigned madness began to seem real; adding a twist to the play as it is uncertain if he was actually mad or not. His constant insistent of his sanity may be simply caused by his own denial, unable to accept that he had actually become mad. Hamlet was very influential with his actions carried out during his plan for vengeance; his actions have desolated Ophelia, the lover of Hamlet himself. Ophelia believed in Hamlet’s love for her but was told otherwise, and the death of her father was not only heartbreaking for her, but the murderer being Hamlet brought her sadness to a next level of emotional breakdown. The message that Shakespeare tries to convey is that madness is not acceptable in anyway even if it is only an act, because you will either become actually mad or unknowingly devastate people around you; doing so will guaranteed your failure in whatever your goal is.
“Here, as before, never, so help you mercy, /How strange or odd some’er I bear myself /As I perchance hereafter shall think meet /To put an antic disposition on – “ 1.5.177-180.
Hamlet swears his friends Horatio and Marcellus to secrecy about his meeting with the ghost of the deceased King Hamlet, he tells them his intentions but not the entire plan. An antic disposition is to feign madness; Hamlet plans to blind everyone else from his plan to avenge for his father by tricking them into thinking that he became insane due to sadness. This quote presents both real and feigned madness of Hamlet; it was arguably real madness when Hamlet claimed to have communicated with the ghost of his deceased father and decided to believe in it. The character development of Hamlet is evident when he decided to listen to a ghost showing how spiritual he is and how he is a very sly and careful person, even to his good friends. The importance of this quote is that it marks the start of Hamlet’s secretive plan on seeking vengeance, and also his madness.
(2/2)
ReplyDelete“I am but mad north-north-west. When the wind is southerly, I know a hawk from a handsaw.” 2.2.368-369
Hamlet denies of his own madness by saying that he still has not lost his senses. A madman’s moods were thought to be affect by the weather and the direction of the wind; Hamlet claims that he has not become mad yet, and that he could still differentiate between different birds. The importance of the quote lies in his confession to Guildenstern and Rosencrantz that he was only faking his madness, even though he expected them to report to the king about their findings. It advances the plot by confusing Claudius even more when he is getting mixed signals about Hamlet’s sanity.
“The spirit that I have seen /May be a devil, and the devil hath power /T’assume a pleasing shape, yea, and perhaps, /Out of my weakness and my melancholy, /As he is very potent with such spirits, /Abuses me to damn me.” 2.2.585-590
In the soliloquy which he reflects upon himself after hearing the player’s passionate speech, Hamlet wonders if the ghost that he had conversed with was actually his father’s spirit, or was it the devil with an evil scheme to trick him while he is vulnerable from the death of his father. The importance of this quote lies in the fact that even Hamlet doubts his own sanity, which is a good thing because at least he knows that he is not blinded by his own sadness and desperation. His doubt in the spirit did encourage him to carry out his plan to test Claudius by showing him disturbing scenes from a play that reminds him of his evil doing. The quote advances the plot and shows that Hamlet is a procrastinator.
“Alas, how is’t with you, /That you do bend your eye on vacancy /And with th’incorporal air do hold discourse? /Forth at your eyes your spirits wildly peep, “ 3.4.116-119
When the ghost of King Hamlet appeared before Hamlet in Gertrude’s room, Hamlet asked if Gertrude could see it as well, but she couldn’t. Even though the first encounter of the spirit was by the guards on duty, they could not communicate with it; Hamlet was the only one who had ever communicated with the ghost. The importance of this quote reveals that the spirit is visible only to Hamlet, which could be used to proof that Hamlet was indeed mad. However, this is a story, so the spirit could actually be real, and chose to only let Hamlet see it. The question of whether or not he is mad can only be answered by the author.
“Make you to ravel all this matter out /That I essentially am not in madness, /But mad in craft. ‘Twere good you let him know, “ 3.4.188-190
At the end of his talk with Gertrude, Hamlet requests Gertrude to be truthful to Claudius and act normal as if nothing has happened. He especially requests her to tell Claudius that he was only faking his madness. The importance of the quote lies in the fact that Hamlet is a genius strategist, he was sure that Gertrude would tell Claudius about his feigned madness anyways, and telling him that would only confuse him. But during the talk, Gertrude witnesses Hamlet’s real madness, when he was the only one who could see the spirit of King Hamlet in the room with them. This quote advances the plot by the change of heart of Gertrude, who now understands her son more; and Hamlet revealing that he was feigning mad will result in Claudius wanting him gone.
LAUREN ADIWINATA PART 2
ReplyDeleteQuote 2:
Hamlet: No such matter. I will not sort you with the rest of my
servants; for, to speak to you like an honest man, I am
most dreadfully attended. But in the beaten way of
friendship, what make you at Elsinore?
Rosencrantz: To visit you, my lord, no other occasion.
Hamlet: Beggar that I am, I am even poor in thanks, but I thank
you. And sure, dear friends, my thanks are too dear a
half penny. Were you not sent for? Is it your own
inclining? Is it a free visitation? Come, come, deal justly
with me. Come, come. Nay, speak.
Guildenstern: Why should we say, my lord?
Hamlet: Anything but to th’ purpose. You were sent for, and
there is a kind of confession in your looks, which your
modesties have not craft enough to colour. I know the
good King and Queen have sent for you.
Rosencrantz: To what end, my lord?
Hamlet: That, you must teach me. But let me conjure you, by the
rights of our fellowship, by the consonancy of our
youth, by the obligation of our ever-preserved love, and
by what more dear a better proposer can charge you
withal, be even and direct with me whether you were
sent for or no.
Rosencrantz: [Aside to Guildenstern] What say you?
Hamlet: Nay, then I have an eye of you. If you love me, hold not
off.
Guildenstern: My lord, we were sent for.
(II.ii.263-288)
After Hamlet has acted upon his antic disposition, the King starts to become nervous that Hamlet is up to something. In order for the King to be sure whether Hamlet is or is not truly going mad, he sends two of Hamlet’s old friends (Rosencrantz and Guildenstern) to spy on Hamlet and try to get the truth out of him. The King asks these two to lie to Hamlet and tell him that they were not sent by him. Once Hamlet begins speaking with his friends, he knows something is going on, and is able to get them to admit to being sent by the King. As Hamlet realises he is not only being lied to by the King, but also by his two friends, he loses trust in everyone but Horatio. Once Hamlet sees that he is being spied on and that Denmark is a prison, this gives him more reason to want to kill King.
Quote 3:
Hamlet: You should not have believed me; for virtue cannot so
inoculate our old stock but we shall relish of it. I loved
you not.
Act 3 Scene 1 Line 117 – 119
The King and Polonius have planned for Ophelia and Hamlet to meet at a time and place they can hide and secretly listen to their conversation. This is an attempt to find out if Ophelia is the reason for Hamlet’s madness. During this conversation, Hamlet suspects that Ophelia is up to something as well. He gets the feeling that he is being watched. He lies to Ophelia and tells her that he never loved her. Hamlet may have used this to further his antic disposition, causing the King and Polonius to still be left in the dark regarding why he (Hamlet) has gone mad. In the process of telling Ophelia this lie, and with the death of her father soon approaching, these two occurrences cause her to go mad as well. Because Hamlet has broken Ophelia’s heart, as we can see later in Act 4 scene 5, as she sings about Valentine’s Day, and “Quoth she, ‘Before you tumbled me,/ You promis’d me to wed.’ He answers, ‘So would I a done, by yonder sun,/ And thou hadst not come to my bed.’”
Lies
ReplyDeleteKenneth Lu
Part 1
Throughout the play “Hamlet” written by Shakespeare, the theme of lies is evident in different characters in the play. What Shakespeare is trying to express through the theme of lies is that lying is a way to cover up the truth of what one does or how one feels. Through lying, people attempt to escape the reality and consequences of the truth. Consequently, the truth is exposed by either one’s self or another person, causing shame and guilt to he/she. This theme is portrayed in the play through Hamlet denying his love for Ophelia, the murder of King Hamlet, and Queen Gertrude’s denial of reality.
1 a)
Gertrude
1.2.68-4
Good Hamlet, cast thy nighted color off, And let thine eye look like a friend on Denmark.
Do not forever with thy vailèd lids Seek for thy noble father in the dust.
Thou know’st ’tis common. All that lives must die, Passing through nature to eternity.
We see in the beginning of the play after King Hamlet’s death, the Queen tells Hamlet to forget about his father’s death. She tells him how it’s normal for people to die and pass away. This is the beginning of the Queen lying to herself and is unable to face the reality of the king’s death. Normally, when one loses a loved one, he/she would be in pain and grief. This is not the case for Queen Gertrude. Through this quote we can see how the Queen runs away from the reality of King Hamlet’s death who is also her husband by saying how it is normal for people to die and pass away. This is said in line 72-74 “Thou know’st ’tis common. All that lives must die,Passing through nature to eternity.” She decides to put on a face, pretending that everything is perfect and that the King’s death isn’t a big deal. Where so Hamlet is different, he expresses his true feelings and faces the reality of the king’s death who is also his father.
1b)
3.4.89-96
Gertrude
O Hamlet, speak no more! Thou turn’st mine eyes into my very soul, And there I see such black and grainèd spots As will not leave their tinct.
HAMLET
Nay, but to liveIn the rank sweat of an enseamèd bed, Stewed in corruption, honeying and making love Over the nasty sty—
GERTRUDE
O, speak to me no more! These words like daggers enter in my ears. No more, sweet Hamlet
The situation that this passage was said is Hamlet exposes the Queen of what she’s done. The Queen knew that what she’s doing is sinful. This shows that the longer she lives in the lie, the harder it is for her to face reality. Hamlet helps open her eyes to the truth. The truth is that not everything around her is perfect and marrying the King’s brother was not the right way to deal with the King’s death. The challenge for her is to accept the truth which states in 3.4. 94-96 “O, speak to me no more! These words like daggers enter in my ears. No more, sweet Hamlet.” When Hamlet exposes her and tells her the truth, it was like daggers to her ears because the truth imposes guilt and shame on her. As the mother of Hamlet, she felt shameful and guilty that she had to lie to herself and be confronted with the truth by her own son that what she was doing wasn’t right. She’s supposed to be the strong and emotionally stable parent for Hamlet, but instead she ran away from the truth and decided to live a lie
Carmen Jarjees- Meaning of Existence
ReplyDeleteThe meaning of existence according to the play Hamlet is that all humans regardless of their social rank will inevitably be equalized by death. Hamlet consistently changes his beliefs about the meaning of existence. Although he wants to commit suicide due to the traumatic turn his life has recently taken, the fear of the after life and God impede him from doing so. However, unlike Hamlet, Ophelia decides to commit suicide, which essentially is caused by her madness. This theme is apparent and emphasized when Hamlet holds up Yoruxes skull and explains that someone who had such significance in his life is now reduced to nothing but a skull. This scene demonstrates that although there is an evident gap between the rich and the poor throughout life , in the end we are all reduced to nothing when faced with death. This theme begins after Hamlet discovers the truth about his father’s death and only intensifies as the play progresses and the plot thickens. As Hamlet and Ophelia’s lives take a negative tole, the value of their lives depreciate as a result and therefore their opinion on the meaning of existence is more pessimistic . This theme created by Shakespeare develops into a more complex theme when the protagonists become more conflicted.
Quotations
Scene 1, Act 2, Lines 129-159
“O, that this too too solid flesh would melt Thaw and resolve itself into a dew! Or that the Everlasting had not fix’d His canon ‘gainst self-slaughter! O God! God! How weary, stale, flat and unprofitable, Seem to me all the uses of this world! Fie on’t! ah fie! ’tis an unweeded garden, That grows to seed; things rank and gross in nature Possess it merely. That it should come to this! But two months dead: nay, not so much, not two: So excellent a king; that was, to this, Hyperion to a satyr; so loving to my mother That he might not beteem the winds of heaven Visit her face too roughly. Heaven and earth! Must I remember? why, she would hang on him, As if increase of appetite had grown By what it fed on: and yet, within a month– Let me not think on’t–Frailty, thy name is woman!– A little month, or ere those shoes were old With which she follow’d my poor father’s body, Like Niobe, all tears:–why she, even she– O, God! a beast, that wants discourse of reason, Would have mourn’d longer–married with my uncle, My father’s brother, but no more like my father Than I to Hercules: within a month: Ere yet the salt of most unrighteous tears Had left the flushing in her galled eyes, She married. O, most wicked speed, to post With such dexterity to incestuous sheets! It is not nor it cannot come to good: But break, my heart; for I must hold my tongue.”
This soliloquy was written by Shakespeare to clearly portray Hamlets feelings towards suicide. Hamlet resents his life and sees no value in living, therefore he becomes self destructive, yet his fear for the after life stops him from turning his thoughts into action. This quote supports the theme because Hamlets character at this moment begins to develop a more pessimistic nature. During this time in the plot hamlet does not question the meaning of existence as a whole but instead questions his own life. From this point Hamlets thought about the meaning of existence begin to develop. What began as a thought of suicide manifested itself into a much deeper more complex question; what is the meaning of existence? That is if there is one at all. The main significance of this quote is that it introduces the gradual development of Hamlets character and the theme of the meaning of existence.
Lies
ReplyDeleteKenneth Lu
Part 2
2a)
1.2.87-91, 105-108,113-118
Claudius
“'Tis sweet and commendable in your nature, Hamlet, To give these mourning duties to your father. But you must know your father lost a father,That father lost, lost his, and the survivor bound In filial obligation for some term
From the first corse till he that died today, “This must be so.” We pray you, throw to earth
This unprevailing woe, and think of us As of a father
In going back to school in Wittenberg, It is most retrograde to our desire. And we beseech you, bend you to remain Here in the cheer and comfort of our eye,Our chiefest courtier, cousin, and our son
In this situation we see that Hamlet is grieving for his father’s and Claudius is trying to bring comfort to him. In the play, he is the one that commit the murder of King Hamlet. So through this we see how he tries to cover up by sweet talking to Hamlet and try to comfort him and make him feel special. All this comforting and sweet talking him is all a lie because in reality he only cares about the throne. He says something in similarity to what the Queen said which is “But you must know your father lost a father,That father lost, lost his, and the survivor bound In filial obligation for some term” (1.2.89-91). He tries to convince Hamlet thinking that losing a father is not a grave loss and something that he should not be so depressed about. Claudius tries to redirect the focus that Hamlet has on his father’s death to himself. He does this to avoid suspicion on the murder that he committed, meaning that he is trying divert people from seeing the truth. He tells him to think of him as his father, so he tells him how important and special he is, just as how a father would talk to a son. This is shown in 1.2.117-118 “Here in the cheer and comfort of our eye, Our chiefest courtier, cousin, and our son”. All these lies that King Claudius tells Hamlet, shows that there is an essence of corruption for power. It shows that he doesn’t care about the depression that Hamlet is going through, and that he only cares that he remains king without being caught for how he murdered King Hamlet for the crown.
MADNESS
ReplyDeleteIn Shakespeare's play Hamlet, all the way from the Act 2 to end of the play, the madness of Hamlet can be seen. The message that Shakespeare attempts to give to audience is that there is no good acting mad, or being mad. I will even interpret his message that 'Madness is a Sin.' It is very extreme how Shakespeare illustrates Hamlet ruining himself until the end, Hamlet himself realizes that there is no point of being mad. The time era that Shakespeare was in had 1564 ~ 1616. It is the time era where superstition was strong and even witch hunting in presence. It was not strange if mad person is taken to court and given judgment of execution. Shakespeare gives his message that there is no good being mad. In fact, Shakespeare gives a punishment to Hamlet’s madness. Shakespeare always gives a bad ending after Hamlet’s antic disposition. Hamlet might have wanted to wait for Claudius’s move and make his move and say, ‘You just activated my trap card,’ but no. It is not going to happen. Not even close because the writer hates madness. By examining the result of Hamlet’s antic disposition, Shakespeare gives a message that madness will result no good.
#1. “I have heard of your paintings well enough. God hath/ given you one face and you make yourselves another./ You jig and amble, and you lisp, you nickname God’s/ creatures, and make your wantonness your ignorance./ Go to, I’ll no more on’t, it hath made me mad. I say we/ will have no mo marriage. Those that are married/ already – all but one – shall live; the rest shall keep as/ they are. To a nunnery, go.” (Act 3.1 142 - 149)
There will be an argument that this is not Hamlet’s madness, but I consider this as one. The focus point is not the quote itself, but how it results Hamlet’s future. Shakespeare illustrates Hamlet as mad person to both Ophelia, Polonius and King who were watching this. What happens after this situation, the relationship between Ophelia and Hamlet becomes slightly tilted because Ophelia, not knowing Hamlet is acting or not, takes this as a rejection and becomes heart-broken. This becomes the start of the tilted relationship because after some interest of time later, Hamlet kills Polonius and becomes exiled, resulting Ophelia becoming mad just like Hamlet. This sequence continues until Laertes figures out Ophelia is crazy and that, she is out of limit, to the point of madness, which later suicides. The single quote of Hamlet became the consecutive vicious loop and comes back to Hamlet that his lover getting killed. Shakespeare illustrates this as madness is one of the sin that it will not be forgiven.
#2. “A murderer and a villain,/ A slave that is not twentieth part the tithe/ Of your precedent lord, a vice of kings,/ A cutpurse of the empire and the rule,/ That from a shelf the precious diadem stole/ And put it in his pocket - ” (Act 3.4 97 - 101)
The focal point is that after Hamlet criticizing his mother with this quote, the ghost of King Hamlet appears. By the time Hamlet says this, he had already lost his original objective of taking revenge on Claudius and become overwhelmed of his madness about his mother not properly mourning and not acting as his expectations. The ghost appears because Hamlet had gone too far at his point. The ghost tries to calm Hamlet down, which makes Hamlet speak to the ghost that his mother can not see. Look at the point where Hamlet’s mother judges his son is mad because he is talking to no where. After this situation, Claudius now has the proper reason to separate Hamlet from his mother, making him easier to send him to England. This later results when Hamlet comes back and sees Ophelia’s graveyard and encounters Laertes, his mother explains to Laertes that Hamlet is mad, making no one to believe in him. Shakespeare leads the play where, just because Hamlet could not control his madness, the vicious loop came back to him as people’s distrust.
#3. “He took me by the wrist and held me hard./ Then goes he to the length of all his arm,/ And with his other hand thus o’er his brow/ He falls to such perusal of my face/ As ‘a would draw it. Long stay’d he so/ At last, a little shaking of mine arm, And thrice his head thus waving up and down,/ He rais’d a sigh so piteous and profound/ As it did seem to shatter all his bulk/ And end his being. That done, he lets me go/ And with his head over his shoulder turn’d/ He seem’d to find his way without his eyes.” (Act 2.1 87 - 98)
ReplyDeleteThis, one of his madness, either caused by his lovesick or actual acting does not matter because both represents the madness uncontrolled. The important point is Polonius’s judgment after hearing this quote from Ophelia. This quote is the beginning point of Polonius’s investigation on Hamlet. It is either his misjudgment or correct analyze, but what I is important is that he becomes nosey about Hamlet’s business. Risking his life to investigate Hamlet’s action, rather dangerous. He ended up getting killed by Hamlet behind the curtain just because he was curious about Hamlet’s action, resulting Claudius having the main reason to exile Hamlet from Denmark. It can be said that Hamlet’s madness came back to him as killing target who was curious about Hamlet’s madness.
#4. “I cannot dream of. I entreat you both/ That, being of so young days brought up with him,/ And sith so neighbour’d to his youth and haviour./ That you vouchsafe your rest here in our court/ Some little time, so by your companies/ To draw him on to pleasures and to gather,/ So much as from occasion you may glean,/ Whether aught to us unknown afflicts him thus/ That, open’d, lies within our remedy.” (Act 2.2 10 - 18)
This quote, made by King is the situation where King is asking Guildenstern and Rosencrantz to spy on Hamlet and pick up information about Hamlet’s antic disposition. Focal point of this situation is that Hamlet is already performing antic disposition and that King and Queen are curious about it and judges that something must be done. They tell Hamlet’s colleagues to spy on him, which means that Hamlet had lost his colleagues as his ally. Because Hamlet’s madness had started to make people curious and puzzled, it made him lose everything, colleagues in the beginning that they were spying on him. Even more extreme occasion, delivering mail to England to get Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to be killed to survive King’s craft of evil. Shakespeare basically precedes the play as Hamlet losing everything he had just because he was mad. Again, madness is a sin.
#5. “No, faith, not a jot, but to follow him thither with/ modesty enough, and likelihood to lead it. Alexander died, Alexander was buried, Alexander returneth to/ dust, the dust is earth, of earth we make loam, and why of that loam whereto he was converted might they not stop a beer-barrel?” (Act 5.1 191 - 195)
This has no relationship with cycles nor loops, but how this is madness is that this boosts up the existentialism deep inside Hamlet, resulting more and more complicated thinking. Complicated thinking often results an error of an action performed. Such a boost of complicated operation of thinking, Hamlet is not an exception that he makes an err in his move later that when he sees Ophelia’s funeral, not controlling himself that existentialistic thoughts and loving thoughts mixed together with revenge still in place in Hamlet, lets out from his hiding. That was not a bright move that clever Hamlet could have thought twice, but he made a move anyways. This Shakespeare’s intended preceding plot that Hamlet loses everything, getting punished. Madness results a sin, while itself is a sin.
Following the death of King Hamlet in William Shakespeare's infamous play was a frenzied Denmark state. After learning how his father was murdered “by a brother’s hand” (1.5.74), Hamlet promises to avenge his deceased father. However, in the resolution which he so often encountered and leaves unexecuted, his weakness is apparent – his procrastination. The play spirals into a tragic downfall as a result of his avoidance in action over a span of time. The mystery, which surrounds the play, is the character of Prince Hamlet himself. His highly cultivated mind makes him rational and sceptical. He is a hypocrite toward himself. As a result, one can never truly know the reasons for Hamlet’s procrastination. Shakespeare utilizes his characters to demonstrate the consequence of loafing. He offers two alternatives suggesting that the best solution is to seek the middle ground – the mean and moderation between the two extremes of procrastination.
ReplyDelete“To die – to sleep,/ No more; and by a sleep to say we end/ The heart-ache and the thousand natural shocks/ That flesh is heir to: ‘tis a consummation/ Devoutly to be wish’d. To die, to sleep;/ To sleep, perchance to dream – ay, there’s the rub:/ For in that sleep of death what dreams may come,/ When we have shuffled off this mortal coil,/ Must give me pause – there’s the respect/ That makes calamity of so long life…/But that the dread of something after death,/ the undiscover’d country, from whose bourn/ No traveller returns, puzzles the will,/ And makes us rather bear those ills we have/ Than fly to others that we know not of?” (3.3.61-68, 79-82)
This quote is from Hamlet’s soliloquy before he encounters Ophelia, an arrangement made by Polonius. The tragic and abrupt events that have taken place in the past two months have caused him to think about the unthinkable – suicide. This quote showcases how he is on the brink of self-destruction. Hamlet procrastinates when he considers suicide. He weighs the advantages and disadvantages stating that dying is the solution to end all his heartaches and misery. Although Hamlet is thinking of death, he fears the unknown and the afterlife. He thinks that perhaps it is more beneficial to live in a world that is “an unweeded garden” (1.2.135) than dying without to knowing what will happened after entering a place of no return. His apprehension and rational character prevents him from taking his own life, and thus delays his death.
“I’ll have these players/ Play something like the murder of my father/ Before mine uncle./ I’ll observe his looks; I’ll tent him to the quick. If’a do blench,/ I know my course. The spirit that I have seen/ May be a devil, and the devil hath power/ T’assume a pleasing shape, yea, and perhaps,/ Out of my weakness and my melancholy,/ As he is very potent with such spirits,/ Abuses me to damn me.” (2.2.581-590)
This quote is spoken in Hamlet’s soliloquy after he asks the players to act The Murder of Gonzago and to “study a speech of some dozen to sixteen lines [that he will] insert in’t.” (2.2.526-527) Hamlet procrastinates and is hesitant because he wants to make the right decision. As much as he hates Claudius, Hamlet reveals that he wants to verify if the ghost is speaking the truth before he takes his uncle’s life. His sceptical personality urges him to test the Claudius’ innocence in case the devil is tricking him or if he is hallucinating insane thoughts. Hamlet settles on the idea of presenting a play within a play for Claudius. Although he wants proof to see if the ghost is speaking the truth, he is using this as an excuse. Hamlet procrastinates as he avoids his promise to the ghost from act one. He has no firm belief in himself and anything else. He believes in the ghost as long as he sees it, but as soon as it has disappeared, it appears to him almost in the light of deception.
Lies
ReplyDeleteKenneth Lu
Part 3
2b)
3.3.37-41,51-58
Claudius
Oh, my offence is rank. It smells to heaven.It hath the primal eldest curse upon ’t,
A brother’s murder. Pray can I not. Though inclination be as sharp as will,My stronger guilt defeats my strong intent,
Then I’ll look up.My fault is past. But oh, what form of prayer Can serve my turn, “Forgive me my foul murder”? That cannot be, since I am still possessed Of those effects for which I did the murder: My crown, mine own ambition, and my queen. May one be pardoned and retain th' offense?
The quote was said in the King Claudius’ soliloquy, after seeing the play that Hamlet presented for them. The play was to expose King Claudius’ action for the murder of King Hamlet. We see that in this soliloquy, that he is drenched in guilt of his actions because he’s been found guilty by Hamlet of his actions. We see that his guilt is driving him crazy to the point where he wants to turn back but he can’t. It shows that he doesn’t want to give him what he had received through the murder of King Hamlet “But oh, what form of prayer Can serve my turn, 3.3.52-58 “Forgive me my foul murder”? That cannot be, since I am still possessed Of those effects for which I did the murder: My crown, mine own ambition, and my queen. May one be pardoned and retain th' offense?” Although King Claudius feels guilty, he refuses to face the truth and continues on live on the lie because the only one that knows the truth behind the death of King Hamlet is Prince Hamlet. He is unwilling to give up and turn himself him because of his ambition for power of the throne. This foreshadows what will happen later because we see that because he is unwilling to turn himself in regardless of the fact that the guilt consumes him, he attempts to find ways to get kill Hamlet. At the same time, this shows the madness in King Claudius because now that Hamlet knows the truth; he must get rid of him to ensure the safety of his throne.
3a)
Hamlet
3.1.114-114
“You should not have believed me, for virtue cannot so inoculate our old stock but we shall relish of it. I loved you not.”
The situation that happened during this quote was Ophelia rejecting Hamlet’s love because Polonius believes that his love is not genuine. He denied his love to Ophelia, because it was for him to appear crazy. Before, the denial of Hamlet’s love for Ophelia, Hamlet was betrayed by two of his best friend (Guildenstern and Rosencrantz). Now we see the betrayal of Ophelia telling him that he doesn’t love him anymore. Through this, Hamlet’s feeling of betrayal has great influence over his feelings for love, causing him to say “I loved you not”. Although he chose to say that, he still loves her deep down inside him. The possibility of Hamlet not loving her is low because in the letters written to Ophelia, it expresses his sincere feelings for her. Due to his feelings of being betrayed, he chooses to believe in the lies that are spoken out by him; instead of believing in the reality that deep down he truly is still madly in love with her. All these betrayals that we see done by his closest friends and Ophelia leads him to his madness of being sceptical of those around him in the kingdom.
Quotation Two
ReplyDeleteAct 4, Scene 3, Lines 19-24
“Not where he eats, but where he is eaten. A certain convocation of politic worms are e'en at him. Your worm is your only emperor for diet. We fat all creatures else to fat us, and we fat ourselves for maggots. Your fat king and your lean beggar is but variable service—two dishes, but to one table. That’s the end.”
This quote said by Hamlet to Claudius is stating that his father is at “supper”, where he is not eating but instead being eaten by worms. This quote explains that we fatten up animals to eat, and in doing so we fatten up ourselves for worms to eat. Moreover Hamlets main message that he is trying to get across to Claudius is regardless of our social ranking, i.e. “a fat king” or a “lean beggar”, we are all reduced to worm food. Though this quote is short, it holds a very powerful message; it does not matter what one achieved or the name one held while living because we are all in fact reduced to the same thing; death. This quote is significant to the theme of the meaning of existence because it shows a clear development of Hamlets pessimistic and negative outlook on life and the meaning of it, which ties in with the very minute value he has of his own life. Shakespeare also demonstrates the contrast of hamlets initial opinion about suicide to his current one. Hamlet began with an immense fear of the after life and God, yet now he states that after we die we become nothing more than worm food. The idea of existentialism also ties in with this quote. Existentialism is a theory that states that the existence of the individual person as a free and responsible agent determining their own development through acts of the will.
“Now whether it be/ Best oblivion, or some craven scruple/ Of thinking too precisely on th’event –/ A thought which, quarter’d, hath but one part wisdom/ And ever three parts coward – I do not know/ Why yet I live to say this thing’s to do/ Sith I have cause, and will, and strength, and means/ To do’t.” (4.4.39-46)
ReplyDeleteIn this quote, Hamlet witnesses Fortinbras’ army taking action. He is deeply impacted by this sight and begins in criticize his own inaction. This quote is a repeat for the Hecuba soliloquy where Hamlet acknowledges his procrastination. He recognizes his tragic flaw of forgetfulness and hesitation that comes from too much thinking. His conscience of right and wrong are often mere excuses used to cover his determination. Hamlet is putting too much thought into how and when he should kill Claudius. His wisdom holds him back from making reasonable excuses to convince himself otherwise that avenging his father was actually the right thing to do. This sceptical doubt prevents Hamlet from action. The trouble Hamlet faces is ultimately his own inability to reconcile his thoughts with the moral ideas and implications of society.
“Up, sword, and know thou a more horrid hent:/ When he is drunk asleep, or in his rage,/ Or in th’incestuous pleasure of his bed,/ At game a-swearing, or about some act/ That has no relish of salvation in’t,/ Then trip him, that his heels may kick at heaven/ And that his soul may be as damn’d and black/ As hell, whereto it does.” (3.3.88-95)
Hamlet is in the church watching Claudius “pray” and repent. He positions his sword and is ready to slay Claudius – but he does not. Once again, he procrastinates. He convinces himself that perhaps this is not the best time to kill him. He plays God when he does this because he is choosing whether Claudius should be sent to heaven or hell. However, what he did not know is that he would go to hell if Hamlet had killed him in the chapel. This is dramatic irony because Hamlet could have punished the wicked but instead, chooses not to because he thinks Claudius would be sent to heaven since he seems to be praying. On the other hand, this can also be seen as another example of the fear to act which is a result of procrastination. Whether those are excuses or not, Hamlet has missed the perfect chance to avenge his father because of his cowardice. His fear of the unknown, desire the make the right decisions as well as inability and fear to act converts him into a tragic hero. The deaths of Polonius, Ophelia, Laertes, Queen Gertrude and King Claudius could have been prevented if he had just killed Claudius when he was given the chance. If Hamlet did not procrastinate, perhaps the play would not develop into a tragedy.
Lies
ReplyDeleteKenneth Lu
Part 4
3b)
5.1.247-249
Hamlet
“I loved Ophelia. Forty thousand brothers Could not with all their quantity of love Make up my sum. What wilt thou do for her?”
In this quote, the situation that is occurring is Hamlet is confronted with the burying of Ophelia. Hamlet exposes himself into saying that he did truly love Ophelia. We see that it takes a tragedy such as this, for Hamlet to expose himself. He had to learn the lesson of what lying can cause through the hard way. He compares the love of forty thousand brothers to his love, saying that it could not match the love that he had for Ophelia (5.1.247-249) “thousand brothers Could not with all their quantity of love Make up my sum.” He had to face the guilt of the lie he had told Ophelia of never loving her when he stood in front of her grave. He had to face the consequence of the lie he told to her which was the death of the one he was madly in love. Ophelia’s death could have been avoided, if he was real about his love to her. If this happened then he wouldn’t have to face the guilt and pain of her death.
In the infamous play Hamlet, there are many foil characters that have all lost their father. Shakespeare uses these characters to portray that procrastination and rash actions will only yield destructive catastrophes. For example, the only time when Hamlet is seen to act hastily is when he stabs Polonius to death. He did not know what was behind the aras and just assumed that Claudius was hiding there. This lack of procrastination caused Ophelia to turn crazy, Laertes to come back for revenge and himself to be shipped out to England. Hamlet’s promise to kill Claudius fails because he acted impulsively. When Laertes learns that his father has died, he created a group of outlaws and bandits to help him kill Claudius without learning what has really taken place. He is fuelled by his anger and does not use his intellect as he doesn’t even realize that he may be about to commit treason. After Laertes discovers that it is Hamlet who has slain his father, he says that he will “cut his throat i’th’ church.” (4.7.126) In addition, Ophelia is also quick to act. Living in the Elizabethan era, she must realize that committing suicide is forbidden. However, she drowns herself as a result of depression and insanity from the accumulation of loss – her lover, Hamlet, and her father, Polonius. Both siblings’ personality contrasts the rational Hamlet who tends to over think. On the other hand, Fortinbras’ actions seem just right. He knows how his father has died and takes the time to scheme and plan for his revenge. When the play comes to an end, Fortinbras is the only character who survives out of all the foil characters. Shakespeare does this intentionally. He attempts to demonstrate how it is better to think things over and not to be rash in one’s actions. Perhaps he is suggesting to his audience that the middle way is the best solution through the theme of procrastination.
ReplyDeleteLAUREN ADIWINATA PART 3
ReplyDeleteQuote 4:
Hamlet: Come,come and sit you down, you shall not budge.
You go not till I set you up a glass
Where you may see the inmost part of you.
Queen: What wilt though do? Thou wilt not murder me?
Help, ho!
Polonius:[Behind the arras] What ho! Help!
Hamlet: How now? A rat! Dead for a ducat, dead.
(III.iv.17-23)
The Queen has a plan with Polonius to reveal Hamlet’s true feelings by talking to him privately in hopes that since he will not open up to anyone else, he will open up and trust his mother. This plan is effective; Hamlet releases all his anger on her about her hasty marriage and betrayal to his father. However, as the Queen gains Hamlet’s trust, within an instant, it is lost. When she calls for help, Polonius reacts from behind the curtain. Hamlet thinks it is the King spying on them, and as a reflex, stabs Polonius. Due to the mother’s deceit towards Hamlet, she has caused the death of Polonius, which later takes a toll on Ophelia, contributing to her madness which triggered her death. It is questionable whether or not Ophelia’s death was a suicide or homicide, but after hearing the details the Queen has given, neither the King nor Laertes dare to ask any further questions. The Queen’s lie and the event that follows push Laertes to seek revenge on Hamlet.
Quote 5:
LAERTES:
I will do't!
And for that purpose I'll anoint my sword.
I bought an unction of a mountebank,
So mortal that but dip a knife in it,
Where it draws blood no cataplasm so rare,
Collected from all simples that have virtue
Under the moon, can save the thing from death
This is but scratch'd withal. I'll touch my point
With this contagion, that, if I gall him slightly,
It may be death.
KING:
Let's further think of this,
Weigh what convenience both of time and means
May fit us to our shape. If this should fail,
And that our drift look through our bad performance.
'Twere better not assay'd. Therefore this project
Should have a back or second, that might hold
If this did blast in proof. Soft! let me see.
We'll make a solemn wager on your cunnings—
I ha't!
When in your motion you are hot and dry—
As make your bouts more violent to that end—
And that he calls for drink, I'll have prepared him
A chalice for the nonce; whereon but sipping,
If he by chance escape your venom'd stuck,
Our purpose may hold there. But stay, what noise?
Enter Queen.
(IV.vii.139-162)
After the death of Laertes’ father, Laertes wants to get revenge on Hamlet, but is unsure how to go about it. The King acts quickly, and uses this opportunity to join Laertes in his quest to kill Hamlet, since the King does not want Hamlet revealing any information. He and Laertes come up with what they believe to be a “fool-proof” plan. Laertes will poison the tip of his sword, when he fences with Hamlet, and the King will poison a cup of wine from which Hamlet will drink, just in case the poisoned sword does not kill him. The King and Laertes keep this a secret from everyone, including the Queen. The King’s plan, however, backfires when the Queen drinks the poisoned wine instead. Once Hamlet is hit with the poisoned sword, he ensures Laertes suffers the same fate. Laertes is killed by his own treachery and the King kills his wife due to his lies. Once Hamlet realises everything has been the King’s doing, he stabs the King with the poisoned blade, and forces the poisoned drink down his throat. The King suffers the death he deserves.
Quotation three
ReplyDeleteAct 5, Scene 1
No, faith, not a jot. But to follow him thither with modesty enough, and likelihood to lead it, as thus: Alexander died, Alexander was buried, Alexander returneth to dust, the dust is earth, of earth we make loam—and why of that loam, whereto he was converted, might they not stop a beer barrel?
Imperious Caesar, dead and turned to clay,
Might stop a hole to keep the wind away.
Oh, that that earth, which kept the world in awe,
Should patch a wall t' expel the winter’s flaw!
But soft, but soft a while.
Hamlet refers to Alexander the Great and Caesar, stating that these great emperors after death became only useful to plug holes. When Shakespeare decided to make Hamlet refer to Alexander and Caesar he clearly portrayed that regardless of your accomplishments you are literally reduced to being a plug. Shakespeare uses hyperbole to exaggerate the message Hamlet is trying to get across. In doing so the reader clearly understands that Hamlet is beginning to find that life really has no meaning. Existentialism is evident in this quote because Hamlet is stating that after death you only become part of the earth and nothing more, his spiritual beliefs and his faith are evidently lessening.
MARYAM RAHIMO J
ReplyDeleteTheme: Procrastination
The issue of procrastination is a major concept that is incorporated in the play “Hamlet” by William Shakespeare, which helps define and develop Hamlet’s character. Each hero must have a tragic flaw, called Hamartia. Hamlet’s Hamartia is procrastination. The many instances of procrastination in Hamlet’s life revolves around the idea of killing Claudius, as revenge for the murder of his father, King Hamlet. This delay is constantly brought up throughout the play, until the very last scene, where the murder finally takes place. When Hamlet hears the news about the murder of his father by the new King, Hamlet puts on an antic disposition (to act crazy) and through this he is capable of misleading other characters in the play. This idea of an “antic disposition” holds a fine line between coward like procrastination and a smart, well thought out plan that leads to ultimate satisfying revenge against Claudius. It is a question of action verses inaction, which is a more complex, underlying theme that compliments the idea of procrastination. By choosing to put on an antic disposition, Hamlet chooses a much delayed way of seeking his revenge. Although Hamlet receives multiple opportunities to take action and follow through with his desired murder, he finds reasons to put it off. Shakespeare uses procrastination in his play to portray the negative consequences that arise from a lack of action. If one chooses to procrastinate on performing desirable actions, they begin to lose sight of their original motivation. It leads to indecisiveness, for when an opportunity arises where one can finally take action for what they were aiming to do, they begin to change their views and extract cons to their original choice. Therefore, Hamlet’s thematic message is that inaction through procrastination causes the demise of a human and leads them to series of unfortunate events. This proves that one must undergo great determination and will, as well as act upon their word in order to success in want they are wanting to achieve. This begins to shape Hamlet’s character. He lacks a sense of self confidence, for his inaction projects the idea that he needs multiple reliable proofs to reassure that his choices are accurate and reasonable. Hamlet also seems very uncertain, indecisive, and cowardly. Shakespeare warns his audience of the intensity of the negative consequences that follow procrastination. His constant choice of inaction leads to the death and madness of Ophelia, and murder of his mother. Shakespeare incorporated a foil character within the play, to evidently contrast with Hamlet’s character. Laertes contains the same ambition to kill the murderer of his father as Hamlet, but choices to act on them in a different manner than Hamlet. The moment Laertes hears the news of his father’s death chooses to follow his ambition back to Denmark, to kill the murderer. Shakespeare holds Laertes and Hamlet as a strong contradiction to show action verses inaction (procrastination). It is evident that as the play progresses, the procrastination worsens, which eventually leads to his demise.
1.5.178-180: “How strange or odd soe'er I bear myself,/ As I perchance hereafter shall think meet/ To put an antic disposition on”
ReplyDeleteIn this quote, Hamlet talks about his plan for an antic disposition, after hearing the ghost speak to him about King Hamlet’s murder by his brother, Claudius. An antic disposition means to act crazy. Hamlet chooses to do this as part of his plan to seek revenge against Claudius, his uncle. This is to allow people to believe he is going mad, so that he is able to somehow perform the perfect revenge against the new King. Hamlet uses this antic disposition as an excuse to stall for time, and is therefore considered to be procrastination. Hamlet seems cowardly because he is unable to act on his anger towards the King and kill him directly, but rather device an over detailed plan that could potentially fail. This shows Hamlet’s inaction because of his choice to stall and make excuses by performing an antic disposition. It is his first sign of procrastination, which started the chain series of unfortunate events that leads him to continuously delay his revenge against King Claudius. This also contrasts Laertes’ choice to act directly on instinct and leave France to go kill his father’s murderer in Denmark.
2.2581-592: “I'll have these players/ Play something like the murder of my father/ Before mine uncle: I'll observe his looks;/ I'll tent him to the quick: if he but blench,/ I know my course. The spirit that I have seen/ May be the devil: and the devil hath power/ To assume a pleasing shape; yea, and perhaps/ Out of my weakness and my melancholy,/ As he is very potent with such spirits,/ Abuses me to damn me: I'll have grounds/ More relative than this: the play 's the thing/ Wherein I'll catch the conscience of the king”
In this quote, Hamlet is saying a soliloquy, talking about a play that is to be performed to King Claudius. Hamlet wants this play to be performed, because it recites the details of the death that the ghost tells Hamlet. Hamlet wants this play to be performed so that he is able to observe Claudius’s reaction, in order to figure out if the ghost is right, and he really is the killer of his father. Hamlet does this because he thinks that the ghost could have been an illusion made by the devil. Hamlet wishes not to be damned, unlike Laertes who claims that he doesn’t care if will be or not. Hamlet is therefore is second guessing the ghost, which is his only source of information and reason for wanting to get revenge on Claudius. This second guessing and indecisiveness is caused by his procrastination in killing the King. It proves the point that procrastination leads to indecisiveness, for when an opportunity arises where one can finally take action for what they were aiming to do, they begin to change their views and extract cons to their original choice. It continues to put him in a series of unfortunate events that force him to delay his revenge constantly. This quote also shows Hamlet’s constant inaction towards the issue relating to his father’s murder. His constant inaction prevents him from ever taking action, because it continues to alter his decisions.
NIMMI AUGUSTINE PAGE 1/5
ReplyDeleteTHEME: CORRUPTION
When one engages in corruption they must endure the lethal consequence, self-destruction. Throughout the play, Hamlet, there are many situations in which corruption is demonstrated. Shakespeare disguises corruption in many shapes and forms in almost all of the characters in Hamlet. Hate, anger, and deception exemplify some of the sources from which corruption derives from in the play. He does this to show how evil clouds our minds and is the reasoning judgement and reason are pushed away and often ignored. We soon bathe in our mistakes and actions and the evil within becomes our worst enemy as we lose control of ourselves, although it can be argued that we lose control the minute we give into the deadly realms of corruption. Either way we transition from victimizing others to unknowingly incriminating ourselves and setting ourselves up for an inevitable ending. Shakespeare’s ideologies on corruption may have been formulated by the corruption that had been taking place under the rule of Queen Elizabeth I. During her rule, Queen Elizabeth was often criticized because she was a female ruler. This caused uncertainty among the people of England about her capabilities as a ruler. She was also condemned because she had no interest in matrimony for it may have squandered her authority as her spouse would take over her rule. This was especially unusual during her time. It was queen’s Elizabeth’s affairs and relationships with other men that enraged the English community as they sought out to overthrow her power and charge her with treason. It was Queen Elizabeth’s ambition that fueled her as leader but from her ambition her desire to stay as a single leader resulted in her scandalous lust, and what many consider her corruption, which defied the traditions of the state and nearly destroyed her.
………….
(ghost): From me, whose love was of that dignity
That it went hand in hand even with the vow
I made to her in marriage, and to decline
Upon a wretch whose natural gifts were poor
To those of mine.
But virtue, as it never will be moved,
Though lewdness court it in a shape of heaven,
So lust, though to a radiant angel linked,
Will sate itself in a celestial bed
And prey on garbage (1.5.48-57).
…….
(Gertrude): No, no, the drink, the drink!—O my dear Hamlet!
The drink, the drink! I am poisoned (dies) (5.2.303-304).
…….
(Hamlet): Frailty thy name is women (1.2.146).
King Hamlet informs Hamlet of his heartless murder by Claudius, his brother. His angered spirit is even more outraged by the betrayal of his wife because of her marriage to Claudius. What is most unsettling is the late king Hamlet and Gertrude shared a marriage that could only be described as ``heavenly`` and seemed perfect in every aspect. Though they were connected through a bond much stronger than vows permit, Gertrude`s lustful and corrupted desires overpowered her moral conscience. This corruption hindered her from looking beyond her childish infatuation with Claudius to see his true ulterior motives. Her deception resulted in her own death from the poisoned drink that Claudius made for Hamlet. Shakespeare seems to make close relations to the corruption that overwhelmed Gertrude and that of Queen Elizabeth, both libidinous and untrustworthy. Shakespeare makes it apparent to emphasis the weakness that Hamlet sees in women much like the people of England thought of Queen Elizabeth.
3.3.88-95: “Up, sword; and know thou a more horrid hent:/ When he is drunk asleep, or in his rage,/ Or in the incestuous pleasure of his bed;/ At gaming, swearing, or about some act/ That has no relish of salvation in't;/ Then trip him, that his heels may kick at heaven,/ And that his soul may be as damn'd and black/ As hell, whereto it goes.”
ReplyDeleteHamlet is saying this, as he stands behind Claudius with a sword in his hands, in a position to kill the King. Hamlet changes his mind as he draws the sword, and realizes that he wants to delay the death, because Claudius is absolved from his sins, therefore killing him would only send him to Heaven. Hamlet decides that he would like to seek his revenge at a later time, so it is more satisfying and perfect. His new plan includes killing Claudius when he is committing a sinful act such as when he is dead drunk, raging in passion, having incestuous sex or swearing while gambling. Hamlet wants to make sure that his death occurs when he has no trace of salvation, so that it is guaranteed he will be sent to the dark depths of hell. This proves how constant procrastination and delaying the act eventually leads to indecisiveness, because he keeps changing his mind and delaying when to kill Claudius. If Hamlet was truly rooted on emotions and the will to kill the murderer of his father, than these deep analysis would not be occurring within his thoughts. This proves the thematic underlying message that procrastination causes the demise of a human and leads them to series of unfortunate events because Hamlet kept delaying the killing to a point where Claudius has now been absolved from his sins, forcing Hamlet to continue delaying the death. This is like a series reaction, which does eventually cause a final unfortunate event.
4.4.39-58: “Now whether it be/ Bestial oblivion, or some craven scruple/ Of thinking too precisely on th’event--/A thought which, quarter’d, hath but one part wisdom/ And ever three parts coward—I do not know / Why yet I live to wsay this thing’s to do, With I have cause, and will and strength, and means/ To do’t. Examples gross as earth exhort me,/Witness this army of such mass and charge,/ Led by a delicate and tender prince,/ Whose spirit, with divine ambition puff’d….How stand I then,./ That have a father kill’d, a mother stain’d Excitements of my reason and my blood”
Hamlet says this soliloquy after observing Fortinbras’ determined behavior, while critiquing his own inaction. Hamlet is frustrated that he has not yet killed Claudius. He admits that he is thinking too much on the consequences and admits that most of his reasoning is because he is a coward. This quote puts emphasis on the idea that Hamlet is procrastinating, because he himself admits his own inactions and that he does more thinking than doing. Hamlet’s character is also being portrayed as he says that his actions are due to more cowardliness than wisdom. Therefore his procrastination can no longer be justified as a well thought out plan that leads to ultimate satisfying revenge. He talks about the men that are able to kill without double thinking their thoughts or pondering on causes to fight. Hamlet becomes angry at himself because he is unable to do as the soldiers do, while he has more reasons to kill the King, yet he is still unable to do anything about it. The men fight for land that isn’t important to them as his family is to him.
NIMMI AUGUSTINE PAGE 2/5
ReplyDelete………….
(King Claudius): My fault is past. But oh, what form of prayer
Can serve my turn, “Forgive me my foul murder”?
That cannot be, since I am still possessed
Of those effects for which I did the murder:
My crown, mine own ambition, and my queen.
May one be pardoned and retain th' offense?
In the corrupted currents of this world
Offense’s gilded hand may shove by justice,
And oft ’tis seen the wicked prize itself
Buys out the law. But ’tis not so above.
There is no shuffling. There the action lies
In his true nature (3.3.51-62).
Claudius is stricken with confusion because he does not know how to ask for forgiveness for the crimes he has committed. He feels unworthy to ask because he can’t part with the things he has obtained and gained from his merciless crime. Claudius’ greed for great power becomes his greatest weakness. This is demonstrated by the murder that was devised and acted upon in order to advance in the throne and be titled the new king of Denmark. He even has the audacity to take his late brother’s wife as his own. Though he is overcome with guilt and knowingly understands the severity of his malevolence, the poison of corruption has brought him to such a level of darkness and depravity that even reconciliation and the promise of afterlife does not break the grasp on all that he possess. His interest in Hamlet greatly disorients his judgement by accepting the proposal from Fortinbras to pass through his lands without thoroughly examining the true intentions of the young prince. He is completely blindsided by the outcome and as a result of his foolish negligence, the state is sacrificed as well as himself.
4.5129-135: “How came he dead? I'll not be juggled with:/To hell, allegiance! vows, to the blackest devil!/ Conscience and grace, to the profoundest pit!/ I dare damnation. To this point I stand,/ That both the worlds I give to negligence,/ Let come what comes; only I'll be revenged/ Most thoroughly for my father”
ReplyDeleteThis quote is being said by Laertes to the King, as he is talking about getting revenge on Hamlet for killing his father. Laertes says that conscience and grace will not be a factor in his decision making and will not let it prevent him from killing Hamlet. He also states that he is not afraid of being damned. This shows a contrast between Hamlet and Laertes’ characters. Hamlet’s procrastination causes him to be indecisive, scared and cowardly, while Laertes says that nothing fears him, not even the afterlife. Laertes also has a set decision. This proves the difference between procrastination and acting instantly on passion. Although Hamlet has the intentions to commit the perfect revenge, his intentions are lost through procrastination, as it leads him to a series of events that would not allow him to commit the ultimate revenge he is looking for. Laertes, on the other hand is willing to do anything to get revenge on his father’s murderer, not thinking about the technicalities and details involved, or devising a well thought out plan. Laertes relies solely on passion, which seems to be working better than Hamlet. This shows the difference between action and inaction. Hamlet represents inaction due to procrastination, while Laertes represents action.
- sorry sir its late cause it wouldnt let me make an account for some reason!
NIMMI AUGUSTINE 3/5
ReplyDelete………
(Hamlet): I have heard of your paintings too, well enough. God has given you one face and you make yourselves another. You jig and amble, and you lisp, you nickname God’s creatures and make your wantonness your ignorance. Go to, I’ll no more on ’t. It hath made me mad. I say, we will have no more marriages. Those that are married already, all but one, shall live. The rest shall keep as they are. To a nunnery, go (3.1.142-149).
Hamlet is heart broken by Ophelia`s break up with him. Ophelia was Hamlet`s first love and from evidence at the beginning of the play Hamlet already had a distrust in women because of his mother but he is devastated because now his love has cheated him too. Ophelia was told by Polonius, her father, to end her relationship with Hamlet. He then used her as a prop to try and lure out Hamlet`s innermost feeling about her to try and make sense of his madness. Ophelia, naive, innocent, and corrupted by the words of her father obeys his orders only to find herself in state more depressing then before. Her deep sadness for losing the love of her life and later the death of her father causes her to end her own life. It is hard to ignore Shakespeare message about abstaining from marriage and the masks women wear. Queen Elizabeth herself was regarded as the `virgin queen` because she did not marry. Again it seems that Shakespeare is trying to convey a message of caution and fair warning of the true nature of women because the doubts people had about Queen Elizabeth as a female ruler.
NIMMI AUGUSTINE PAGE 4/5
ReplyDelete……….
(Hamlet): Why, look you now, how unworthy a thing you make of me! You would play upon me. You would seem to know my stops. You would pluck out the heart of my mystery. You would sound me from my lowest note to the top of my compass. And there is much music, excellent voice, in this little organ, yet cannot you make it speak? 'Sblood, do you think I am easier to be played on than a pipe? Call me what instrument you will, though you can fret me, yet you cannot play upon me (3.2. 348-356).
……….
(Hamlet): Why, man, they did make love to this employment.
They are not near my conscience. Their defeat
Does by their own insinuation grow.
Between the pass and fell incensèd points
Of mighty opposites. (5.2.57-62)
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, who are dear friends of Hamlet, are called upon by the king and queen to find out the answer to Hamlet`s insanity. They were to act as messengers for the king and queen as they disguised as friends coming to pay Hamlet a visit and to offer company and comfort as he goes through difficult times. Hamlet, who is not easily oblivious to this, catches on to their scheme and in doing so feels utterly betrayed by his own friends, and sends them to be executed. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern were too occupied in completing the task at hand, to get information that would be useful to the king and queen that they didn`t take the time to evaluate the integrity of their actions. Because their states of minds are corrupted, they are filled with evil intentions that would not entice those with a normal state of mind. The relationships between friends are questioned as they are willing to sacrifice their friend in order to satisfy the desires or the king and queen.
NIMMI AUGUSTINE PAGE 5/5 (FINALLY!)
ReplyDelete……….
(Polonius): My lord, he’s going to his mother’s closet.
Behind the arras I’ll convey myself
To hear the process. I’ll warrant she’ll tax him home.
And, as you said (and wisely was it said)
'Tis meet that some more audience than a mother—
Since nature makes them partial—should o'erhear
The speech, of vantage (3.3. 27-33).
Polonius is characterized by his devotion to his job as well as his loyalty to King Claudius. He infamous for the many plans that he devises in order to find ``the truth.`` His methods and technique are often questionable as they are rarely ethical and just. In his tainted mind his ideologies are emphasised on getting the job done instead of realizing who he hurts in the process. Polonius violates the privacy of the Hamlet by listening in on a conversation between Hamlet and Gertrude in order to determine the truth behind his insanity. Instead of leaving with answers he doesn`t leave at all because he was killed by Hamlet before he could. Polonius` corrupted mind due to his obsession and dedication to his job paid a hefty price for his dishonourable deeds which was his life.
Shakespeare shows through various examples of corruption affecting our sanity and good reasoning. It is found in friendship, love, family, and the monarchy in a variety of areas of the play which all ends tragically. Humans are gifted with intelligence and conscience. Without control, reason, or good judgement we are comparing ourselves simply animals. When we open ourselves up to corruption it is like opening the gates to raging flames which spread without control taking out whatever or whomever that stands in its way. Much like the characters in the play when filled with corruption they do not think but just act, and like all flames they must die down in the end.
After Hamlet comes into Ophelia’s closet while she was sewing and grabs her by the wrist, she decides to go and apprise Polonius with what she has seen and describes Hamlet’s actions. Her father quotes, “That hath made him mad.”(2.1.111) He claims to think that Hamlet is becoming mad because Ophelia refuses to portray her love to Hamlet any longer. However, this does not necessarily mean Hamlet was mad. Nonetheless, it may have simply meant that he is going through depression. Polonius decided to take a simple act of depression and considered it to be as an act of madness. This furthermore assisted the spread of the idea of madness throughout Denmark. Ophelia believes that her father is wise so when he makes such an explicit statement about Hamlet, she would believe her father’s words. Taking this point in general, when one is going through depression, madness or a psychological problem; they may or may not know of it until one informs them. This is because he or she may be confused and doubtful of what they are going through. In Hamlet’s case, Polonius has now made a solid statement that Hamlet is going through madness. Hamlet, in a bewildered state is gullible with what he hears and so if Hamlet hears Polonius’ statement that he is mad, this thought it will inevitably enter his mind. This quote is very significant because this is the first time Ophelia is introduced to the theme of madness. This is like the first symptom to the contagious disease. Ophelia now has that seed in her mind of madness’ existence in her surroundings. This seed will soon be planted in her head once she stars to hear everyone else constantly mentioning or experiencing madness in Denmark.
ReplyDeleteIn Act two scene two, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are sent to spy on Hamlet for the king. When Hamlet asks them why they are sent to see him they lie and say that they came to visit him. Hamlet realized they are lying and quotes, “You were sent for, and/ there is a kind of confession in your looks, which your/ modesties have not craft enough to colour. I know the/ good king and queen have sent for you.”(2.2.274-277) It was easy for Hamlet to realize that the two men were not sent forth to visit him but to observe him. This is because he knew after hearing it so many times that people are claiming he is mad. This quote is significant because all this begins to affect Hamlet even more than he already is. In other words, the contagious disease of madness has now furthermore spread in Hamlet. Because the two men came to spy on Hamlet, it was almost like a way to assure to Hamlet that there is something mentally wrong with him. This really made Hamlet recognize or really consider his mental state. It is now when Hamlet really considers arriving with the conclusion that he is mad. Why else would two men come all the way to Elsinore to check up him? Hamlet already feels the madness conquering when he starts to compare Elsinore with the prison because that is where they keep mad people. However this is only because of how much impact Rosencrantz and Guildenstern made when they came. Also, the idea of Hamlet going through madness has also been accepted by the two men only because of how many times it has been said in Denmark. In general, when something is told one too many times, it begins to sound more and more believable. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern and Hamlet may have not agreed with Hamlet’s state of mind at first but they all grew to believe so because of the constant idea of madness constantly coming up.
(PART TWO)
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteProcrastination is inevitable and endemic to the human conduction establishing itself as the conscience or second thoughts. It allows the heat of the moment to subside, and for one to step back and re-evaluate action with indecision. In the play Hamlet, Hamlet Jr. is paralyzed with self-doubt and emotional anguish at the betrayal shown by his mother in marrying his uncle and his girlfriend returning his letters of love to him. Above all, Hamlet is a man that lives by his rules and if one were to interpret them as morals, so be it, but it would appear that those closest to him are not ‘playing fair’ and it upsets him to the point of paralysis. After all, he calls Denmark a ‘weeded garden’. Is Hamlet an unrealistic perfectionist? When things do not go his way, he rages pouts, screams, kills people, and generally acts childish by putting on a show. Yet what he must do as a faithful, loving and vengeful son, he cannot. Hamlet fears that killing the king is as bad as his uncle killing his father-a situation which is revolting to him. The message in the play appears to be that perceived action is never easy when it comes to acting it out, and reality is far from playing a game. As future king, Hamlet acts badly at a time when his country is under invasion. This, he never consider the consequences of having involved himself in revenge as opposed to looking after his people. This obsession with finding the truth and punishing the wrongdoer pushes him to ultimately, kill his uncle. Also, his conscience leads to procrastination and inaction that renders him helplessly.
ReplyDelete“My fate cries out
And makes each petty artery in this body
As hardy as the Nemean lion’s nerve.
Still am I called.—Unhand me, gentlemen.
By heaven, I’ll make a ghost of him that lets me.
I say, away!—Go on. I’ll follow thee.” (1.4.83-85)
Even at this stage of the play, it is obvious that Hamlet does not trust anyone. His friends want to help him when he first confronts the ghost, and yet he threatens them with death. Hamlet clearly doubts his friends at this point because his mother’s betrayal has influenced him to trust no one. As a logical person, he is just curious to see if there is a ghost, and if they had been telling the truth. There are two parts of hamlet: the intelligent part and the childish, ego part of him. When they two come together, he can’t do anything, which leads to his procrastination. Procrastination and trust are very closely tied in this play and betrayal is also a part of this. When you don’t trust anybody, you don’t know what to do. Thus, lack of advice and guidance from those around him, eventually leads to his procrastination.
part1 Justin kang
“Who would fardels bear,
ReplyDeleteTo grunt and sweat under a weary life,
But that the dread of something after death,
The undiscovered country from whose bourn
No traveler returns, puzzles the will
And makes us rather bear those ills we have
Than fly to others that we know not of?
Thus conscience does make cowards of us all,
And thus the native hue of resolution
Is sicklied o'er with the pale cast of thought,
And enterprises of great pith and moment
With this regard their currents turn awry,
And lose the name of action” (3.1.76-88)
In this quote, fear, depression and inaction (procrastination) are clearly displayed. Instead of acting like a king and a mature adult, he resorts to childishness. Hamlet, who is suicidal, wants to escape in death; still, he cannot do this, because he fears the afterlife. In the beginning of the play, Hamlet, as an adult, confronts the ghosts with the subject of the afterlife, but simultaneously, in the same quote, he shows tendencies of fear toward the afterlife. In conclusion, he is afraid of sinning and he is also a man of logic. These are the two parts of him that acts at the same time. Hamlet wanting to kill himself, at the time when the country is in need, is a childish and selfish act. He cannot even kill himself because he wants to take justice against his father’s murderer, his uncle. This shows that he fears death because of the unknown world of afterlife. Thus his lack of courage to take initiative leads to his procrastination of his father’s revenge
“O that this tootoo sullied flesh would melt, Thaw and resolve itself into a dew,…how weary, stale, flat and unprofitable seem to me all the uses of the world! Fie on’t,ah fie,’ tis unweeded garden that grows to seed things rank and gross in nature possess it merely.” (1.2.129-157)
At this part of the play, Hamlet expects too much from people, and even at this early point of the novel, the reader gets a sense of his high expectations. When he comes back from Denmark after long years of studying at Wittenberg, he enters the kingdom with the unrealistic expectation that the court will be like how his school was, in order and quiet. Instead of asking why, he is upset with what he sees because he is not interested in reality of the court or all the imperfections and problems with the country. During this time, his kingdom was under invasion and his men were seeing ghosts. Hamlet, who left the kingdom with his loving mother and an excellent king at the throne, comes back to see unexpected situations. His mom is acting differently and most importantly of all, people are not following proper etiquette of the dead king. Hamlet even mentions that even he cannot be as perfect as his father. He wants things to be perfect in his kingdom. As a person of logic, he doesn’t know what to do. This was all too much for Hamlet, who follows rules and use to seeing everything perfectly. He is most definitely shocked and paralyzed by what he sees, he struggles in confusion and wonder through surreal world as he struggles to accept that this, in fact, is the reality. Therefore, his disordered state of mind and his nature of being a perfectionist becomes the factor of his procrastination.
part2 Justin Kang
“To take him in the purging of his soul
ReplyDeleteWhen he is fit and seasoned for his passage?
No.” (3.3.85-88)
There are times in the play where hamlet changes the character unexpectedly and becomes more of a righteous person, but for the wrong reason. He has witnessed his uncle confessing his sin: killing his father. He should act upon this revelation, given that he has heard it with his own ears, but he cannot. Hamlet reasons that if he was to kill King Claudius at this point, he may go to heaven and that this is not the destination he has in mind for King Claudius. According to Hamlet’s thinking, this was not the right time because Hamlet was God’s voice on earth. He considers himself to be the instrument of god, and decides to set King Claudius up in a bed with his mother so that he can go to hell. And yet towards the end of his soliloquy he has no intention of killing his mother because this is the right thing to do. He hopes that she will stay on earth and he will re-educate her to find her way to save her soul- for her there is forgiveness because she’s his mom after all. His good intention, in other words, his morality and conscience, prevents him from taking the opportunity to King Claudius, which ultimately leads to his procrastination
“I loved Ophelia. Forty thousand brothers
Could not with all their quantity of love
Make up my sum. What wilt thou do for her?” (5.1.255-258)
His emotional explosion, his inability to control his anger, in other words, his emotion leads hamlet to procrastination. In the quote, he realizes that he has lashed at the wrong people and he is sorry for what he has done. He should have trusted her to the point where he can tell her his problems and struggles he has within the kingdom. His anger gets him and it prevents him from mentioning Ophelia that he truly loves her. Thus, having the sense to control his emotions and to speak openly and calmly with the woman he loves, may have unfolded this tragedy from happening. Hamlet cannot talk to anyone, having isolated, Ophelia was his last hope. He goes in and out of this madness based on repressed anger, which indirectly lead to her dead. Result of him being angry has completely shut down communication and his inability to share with others. Therefore, his lack of communication with the public caused by his anger leads to his procrastination and the death of his love.
part3 Justin Kang
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteQuote #2: Act 2 Scene 1
ReplyDeleteMy lord, as I was sewing in my closet,
Lord Hamlet, with his doublet all unbrac’d,
No hat upon his head, his stockings foul’d,
Ungarter’d and down-gyved to his ankle,
Pale as his shirt, his knees knocking each other,
And with a look so piteous in purport
As if he had been loosed out of hell
To speak of horrors, he comes before me. (2.1.77-84)
In this scene, the reader sees the first negative effects of Prince Hamlet’s madness revealed. Ophelia is describing to her father, Polonius, the encounter that she has just had with Hamlet. She is distraught and scared because Hamlet came into her room, looking disheveled and acting insane. In the beginning of the play, there is evidence that Ophelia and Hamlet have had an ongoing relationship, but once Hamlet begins acting strangely, Polonius forbids Ophelia from associating with him. She obeys and discontinues all contact with him, which could be seen as a contributing factor to Hamlet’s façade turning into actual madness. Polonius and the King think that the reason for Hamlet’s behavior is due to his overwhelming love for Ophelia; meanwhile, Shakespeare uses this as a tool to help establish Hamlet’s false insanity becoming real. This moment in the play conveniently ascertains the idea that madness is damaging and has many consequences in life. Due to Hamlet’s façade, he is directly causing Ophelia to follow in his footsteps towards insanity. This has negative effects on both of their lives in that they destroy their relationship with one another, and inevitably both die.
Quote #3: Act 3 Scene 1
I have heard of your paintings well enough. God hath
given you one face and you make yourselves another.
You jig and amble, and you lisp, you nickname God’s
creatures, and you make your wantonness your ignorance.
Go to, I’ll no more on’t, it hath made me mad. I say we
will have no mo marriage. Those that are married
already – all but one – shall live; the rest shall keep as
They are. To a nunnery, go. (3.1.142-149)
This quote is significant in solidifying the theme of madness because it takes place when Hamlet and Ophelia are both in a very vulnerable state, both being slowly driven to madness. Here Hamlet denies his love for Ophelia, telling her repeatedly “To a nunnery, go.” In making this statement, he is suggesting that if he cannot have her, then nobody should and that she should become an unwed nun. He then continues to insult her and treat her with disrespect so that she herself is hysterical and disturbed by Hamlet’s behavior. Shakespeare cleverly uses this in leading the audience to wonder whether this is just a part of Hamlet’s façade, or if he is truly going mad. In this quotation, the negative implications that Hamlet’s actions have on not only himself, but Ophelia as well, are shown immensely. He is angered that she is trying to severe all ties to him and this causes him to act out aggressively in the hopes that his antic disposition will protect him so that he will not have to take responsibility for what he says and does to her. He is mistaken, however, because his actions have the opposite affect in that they are the root cause for Ophelia’s lunacy.
Quote #4: Act 4 Scene 5
ReplyDeleteI hope all will be well. We must be patient. But I cannot
choose but weep to think they would lay him I’th’ cold
ground. My brother shall know of it. And so I thank you
for your good counsel. Come, my coach. Good night,
ladies, good night. Sweet ladies, good night, good night. (4.5.68-72)
Ophelia’s personality has changed drastically in this scene as we see that she is becoming insane. After the death of her father at Hamlet’s hand, she begins to lose her mind. This quotation complicates the theme of madness because it is directly linked to her lunacy. The King, Queen, and Laertes are talking when she walks into the room, acting strangely and singing at random. The songs that she sings are snatches of old ballads, which mourn the death of her father and Hamlet’s unkindness towards her. She is pretending to pick flowers out of thin air, which shows that she has lost her mind in her struggle with Hamlet’s madness. Furthermore, Ophelia’s attitude has a direct effect on her brother Laertes, because he sees her acting oddly and attributes it to the death of her father and Hamlet’s behavior. In his distress at seeing his sister in this vulnerable state, he is enraged at Hamlet, causing him some minor insanity as well as he wants to seek revenge on Hamlet for causing this grief to his sister. This quote is relevant to emphasizing the theme of madness because it shows the effect that Hamlet’s façade has had on Ophelia, and now even Laertes and Shakespeare suggestion that madness leads to destruction is clearly shown here in the destruction of Ophelia’s ability to think rationally and clearly.
Quote #5: Act 5 Scene 1
I lov’d Ophelia. Forty thousand brothers
Could not with all their quantity of love
Make up my sum. What wilt thou do for her?
In this scene, William Shakespeare is making the theme of madness even more complex and intricate because this scene takes place when Hamlet has just realized that Ophelia is dead and he, in a sudden moment of clarity, declares that he really loves her. In this quotation, it appears that Hamlet is not in fact insane, but that he is realizing and admitting that he really did love Ophelia and that she meant the world to him. He realizes that his antic disposition drove her to take drastic measures and commit suicide, and that he is to blame for her destruction. Even though throughout the course of the play, the reader thinks that Hamlet is truly becoming mad, it is clearly shown in this quotation, that Hamlet was not mad up until this point. But Shakespeare cleverly makes it clear after this scene, that Hamlet has become mad, due to his false insanity, which ultimately leads to his eventual death and destruction of mind and body. This quote is relevant in solidifying the theme of madness throughout the play, Hamlet, because it shows that Shakespeare was right in suggesting that madness ends in destruction, as seen here through Ophelia’s death due to her struggle with insanity. This also foreshadows how Hamlet’s antic disposition will inevitably lead to his ruin and death at the end of the play.
Quotation Four
ReplyDeleteScene 3, Act 1
To be, or not to be? That is the question—
Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
Or to take arms against a sea of troubles,
And, by opposing, end them? To die, to sleep—
No more—and by a sleep to say we end
The heartache and the thousand natural shocks
That flesh is heir to—’tis a consummation
Devoutly to be wished! To die, to sleep.
To sleep, perchance to dream—ay, there’s the rub,
For in that sleep of death what dreams may come
When we have shuffled off this mortal coil,
Must give us pause. There’s the respect
That makes calamity of so long life.
For who would bear the whips and scorns of time,
Th' oppressor’s wrong, the proud man’s contumely,
The pangs of despised love, the law’s delay,
The insolence of office, and the spurns
That patient merit of th' unworthy takes,
When he himself might his quietus make
With a bare bodkin? Who would fardels bear,
To grunt and sweat under a weary life,
But that the dread of something after death,
The undiscovered country from whose bourn
No traveler returns, puzzles the will
And makes us rather bear those ills we have
Than fly to others that we know not of?
Thus conscience does make cowards of us all,
And thus the native hue of resolution
Is sicklied o'er with the pale cast of thought,
And enterprises of great pith and moment
With this regard their currents turn awry,
And lose the name of action.—Soft you now,
The fair Ophelia!—Nymph, in thy orisons
Be all my sins remembered.
This quote said by Hamlet is one of Shakespeare’s most well known and powerful quotation throughout the play. Shakespeare is clearly portraying the theme of the meaning of existence by portraying Hamlets reflection on the idea of suicide. He begins the quote by asking himself whether to choose life or death, then proceeds to explain the troubles one encounters in life and how unnecessary all the heartache is because we all inevitably pass away. This leaves Hamlet with the question; what is truly the point of living? After Hamlet reduces life to have no meaning he proceeds to explain that though suicide seems like a suitable solution, it is the fear of the after life itself that does not allow one to follow through with suicide. Though Hamlets character throughout the play transitions from leading a more religious based life to believing in the theory of Existentialism, there is still that fear of God and the consequence of suicide stopping Hamlet from following through with his thoughts. This quotation is the main turning point for Hamlet, as he loses faith in religion and instead relies on his revenge to even the damage and depression Claudius has caused him.
HAMLET: THEMES EXPRESSED IN DRAMA
ReplyDeleteD. LIES
In the play, Hamlet by William Shakespeare, lies and deceptions are two of the most important themes of the play because they develop the plot and create conflicts between the characters. Hamlet and Laertes lie for revenge, Polonius lies for his dignity and his family’s fame, and King Claudius lies to devise the murder for the crown. The lies and deceptions are used by the characters as a way to get their advantages and what they want. However, Shakespeare conveys that the falsehoods and deceptions bring struggles and deepen the conflicts which ultimately lead to tragic consequences.
The quotation spoken by Hamlet, “To put an antic disposition on” (1.5.35) reveals that Hamlet turns away from his responsibilities as a prince and isolates himself from the kingdom. He frees himself from the duties of prince to concentrate on his plot to revenge and to act it out with more ease. However, Hamlet’s constant discordance with people further troubles his circumstances and creates external conflicts with other characters.
A quote by Polonius, “your bait of falsehood takes this carp of truth/ And thus do we of wisdom and of reach/ With windlasses and with assays of bias/ By indirections find directions out” (2.1.63-69) reveals Polonius’ personality. He values fame and honour very highly, and isn't hesitant nor shameful in carrying out acts to protect them, so deceives prince Hamlet with no difficulty. Polonius is found saying, “My lord, he’s going to his mother’s closet. / Behind the arras I’ll convey myself/ To hear the process. I’ll warrant she’ll tax him home” (3.3.27-29). However, in the course of carrying out his scheme, Polonius is killed by Hamlet.
The quotation by King Claudius, “Now must your conscience my acquittance seal,/ And you must put me in your heart for friend,/ Sith you have heard, and with a knowing ear,/ That he which hath your noble father slain/ Pursu’d my life.” (4.7.1-5), is the King asserting that he is unrelated to Polonius’ death to keep his legacy as a king, and to detach himself from Laertes' anger. Furthermore, he plans to murder Hamlet because Hamlet threatens his position with Laertes. Claudius deftly lures Laertes to sin which causes him to meet his fate not unlike that of his father, Polonius.
The quotation spoken by King Claudius, “Strengthen your patience in our last/ night’s speech;/ We’ll put the matter to the present push,-” (5.2.28-282), reveals Claudius and Laertes’ plan to murder Hamlet with poisoned drink and rapier. This deception foreshadows Hamlet's tragic fate and that Laertes will commit the deadly sin.
The quotation, “She swoons to see them bleed.”(5.2.303) suggests that the play is full of lies until the very end, and reveals that the King tries to murder Hamlet with the poisoned drink and that he has not loved Queen. He gives very little thought on the queen’s statement and only worries for his sovereignty. Consequently, both the king’s plan and Laertes’ revenge unsuccessful and Hamlet dies in vain.
sorrry. i forgot to add
ReplyDeleteJustin Kang
Hamlet: Themes Expressed in Drama
Theme: Procrastination.
The first word of my essay is PROCRASTINATION. so I hope it becomes obvious to you that my theme is procrastination. sorry sir.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteQuote five
ReplyDeleteAct 5, Scene 1, Lines 169-177
Let me see. (takes the skull) Alas, poor Yorick! I knew him, Horatio, a fellow of infinite jest, of most excellent fancy. He hath borne me on his back a thousand times, and now, how abhorred in my imagination it is! My gorge rises at it. Here hung those lips that I have kissed I know not how oft. —Where be your gibes now? Your gambols? Your songs? Your flashes of merriment that were wont to set the table on a roar? Not one now to mock your own grinning? Quite chapfallen? Now get you to my lady’s chamber and tell her, let her paint an inch thick, to this favor she must come. Make her laugh at that.—Prithee, Horatio, tell me one thing.
As Hamlet holds Yoricks skull he is in dis-belief of what this man that held such signifigance in his life has been reduced down to. One could even say that Hamlet is moved or over whelmed by the realization of what someone truly becomes after they pass away; a skull. A man that brought joy to so many people, and only ever brought a smile to Hamlets face is now dead and disrespected because his skull is being mistreated. The theme of the meaning of existence is especially shown when hamlet says “Where be your gibes now? Your gambols? Your songs? Your flashes of merriment that were wont to set the table on a roar? Not one now to mock your own grinning? Quite chapfallen? Now get you to my lady’s chamber and tell her, let her paint an inch thick, to this favor she must come.” Hamlet asks Yoricks where his jokes have gone and if it hurts him that he is unable to make anyone smile anymore, he then proceeds to tell Yoricks to inform Ophelia that no matter how much make up she puts on she will inevitably be in Yoricks current position. This quotation is significant to the theme of the meaning of existence because it clearly demonstrates Hamlet feeling over whelmed by his final realization of what the human life is reduced to. He holds the skull of someone who held much significance in his life and come to terms with the fact that he is nothing more than a skull now. Due to this realization and personal reassurance of his theory on the meaning of existence, Hamlets character develops to be completely convinced that life is no more than an inevitable death and it is not a series of events based on fate but instead existentialism.
Jessica Kharag
ReplyDeleteTheme: Madness
Madness is defined as the condition of being insane; a derangement of the mind. The theme of madness is one of the main themes created by Shakespeare in Hamlet. This theme is apparent through the relationship of Hamlet and his lover Ophelia. Madness is the cause of numerous unfortunate events which can potentially cause one to lose total self-control and emotion. Shakespeare shows madness through numerous characters, which potentially may lead a person to commit suicide. Depression in this play is displayed in all the characters at one point or another. Shakespeare establishes madness in the personality of the characters, and certain situations their set to face. Shakespeare also describes each character to have a different type of madness. Through Hamlet, he shows hatred towards life itself but as for Ophelia, it is a unique form of madness which can be categorized between love and hate. He as well uses Horatio towards the end of the play, stopping the madness by driving the character to a point of attempting to poison him because of the atmosphere set of madness. He demonstrates this insanity shown from the beginning to end of the play, by setting a pattern growing through the characters but giving a different approach for each. As each character suffers a different form of madness it causes one to feel different emotions and leads to a darkness setting in the play.
“To define true madness, what isn’t but to be nothing else but mad?"(, 2.2.92-94)
ReplyDeletePolonius, the Kings councilor took note on Hamlets odd behavior and reported to the King and Queen about Hamlets madness outrage. Polonius, Ophelia’s father read to the King and Queen a letter written by Hamlet to Ophelia, stating that in order to understand Hamlets madness you must keep an outlook on the people he’s surrounded himself around. Understanding the impression Polonius has towards Hamlet it’s displayed as a negative impression, by taking an extra mile by ordering his daughter to stay away from Hamlet. As he reads the letter, he stops and gives his opinion of Hamlets madness by agreeing when one becomes mad; to define the meaning would be mad. This madness causes Hamlet to push the ones he cares about away, by showing no emotion.
“There’s rosemary, that’s for remembrance – pray you, love, remember. And there is pansies, that’s for thoughts.” (4.5.172-173)
After the death of Polonius, Ophelia becomes mad in different forms, losing all of her complete self-control. This madness is caused from different situations Ophelia is set into, through this play; Shakespeare shows Ophelia’s character to be an innocent young lady who is a flawless. By obeying her father and brothers commands on staying away from Hamlet, madness arises in Ophelia’s character because of the complicated love connection that occurs between both her and young Hamlet. Aside from the heart break of Hamlet’s love another cause is the death of her father, Polonius who was accidently murdered by her lover, Hamlet. In such a short period innocent Ophelia lost the two great loves. From this quote, Ophelia develops a completely different character, urging to the extent that could lead her to what remains a mystery of her possibly committing suicide.
“O what a rash and bloody deed is this!” “A bloody deed. Almost as bad, good mother, as kill a king and marry with his brother.” (3.4.28)
ReplyDeleteAfter Hamlet kills Polonius as he mistakes him for the King. Hamlet’s madness causes him to go against his mother’s word by noticing the blood on his hands, as well as the murder committed to the wrong man. Instead of apologizing for his behavior he turns to the Queen by interrogating the fact of Gertrude marrying his father’s murderer. Hamlet reaches a breaking point where he loses control of his temper, allowing his rage to take over his personality. Shakespeare displays this anger in Hamlets character by disrespecting his mother in an abusive form.
“I lov’d Ophelia. Forty thousand brothers could not, with all their quantity of love, Make up my sum. What wilt thou do for her?” (5.1.225 – 257)
This form of madness Hamlet presents is grief. As he watches Ophelia’s coffin lowered into the ground, Hamlet show’s for the first time in the play, emotion. The madness has taken over his mind that he forgot what it was like to feel with his heart. The death of Ophelia attacked Hamlet in a grieving state of mind that appears to the other characters and is mistaken as a mad man. Shakespeare in this quote allows Hamlet to come out of his shell for once. Throughout the play Hamlet is described to be heartless, but what Shakespeare displays is how life is taken for granted. The most important people in our lives can vanish within a blink of an eye. Hamlet at this point is mad within himself for taking these people for granted.
“Never believe it. I am more an antique Roman than a Dane. Here’s yet some liquor left.” (5.2.333 – 335)
Madness is a disease that is contagious throughout this play. Every character affected by madness has driven them towards depression and later death. In Hamlet the madness through each character leads them to lose control of who they were in the past, to what they have become in the future. After all of the deaths Shakespeare takes in this play, Horatio portrays madness as a disease after all of the deaths that have taken place. He makes reference to the Pre – Christian Romans who committed suicide rather than continuing their lives. Horatio’s speaks out to Hamlet to give him the rest of the poison that he too would like to end his life the way of the Romans. Madness is contagious from the death of Ophelia, to the death of Hamlet. Each character died because they allowed madness to succeed and take over their complete self. This form of madness Shakespeare displays in Hamlet to be contagious.
Response to Henry Kwan's post about Procrastination
ReplyDeleteI agree that it is partially because of his morality that Hamlet struggles so hard in following through with the revenge for his father. I think the best example you used is Hamlet’s justification for why he did not kill Claudius when he was praying. This is a prime example of how because of Hamlet’s faith in God, he is unable to follow through. However, I do not really see how your other quotes are related to the theme of Hamlet’s procrastination being caused by his morality. Your other quotes are more so just examples of how he has procrastinated. I think a better way to have addressed this theme would have been to show how people will use any excuse possible to procrastinate if they have a tendency to procrastinate. Pretty much, people who procrastinate will use any excuse to justify it to themselves why they haven’t done something yet. For example, Hamlet’s grand plan involving the play he puts on is less about his moral decisions, he wants to kill Claudius, but rather it is more that he wants to be completely sure that Claudius is guilty. It is because of his character traits of being skeptic, hesitant and over calculating that Hamlet fails to kill Claudius till the very end of the play when Hamlet is already facing certain death.
Response to Sammie Leung's post about The Meaning of Existence
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that in this play Shakespeare expresses a very philosophical view on if existence really has any meaning. I also agree the key point you made that Shakespeare isn’t blatantly saying that there is no existence after life, but rather he is suggesting that it is a possibility that this is the truth. You expressed this well by using the supporting quotations proving that Hamlet still has belief in heaven and hell through the examples of how Hamlet doesn’t kill Claudius when he is praying and how he is opposed to suicide not just because of the possibility of there being no afterlife but also because he is afraid of God’s commandments. This shows that Shakespeare is simply suggesting this possibility although he is not fully committed to saying there is no God/higher power, he acknowledges that this is a possibility.
Response to Sammie Leung's post - Existence
ReplyDeleteIt is very true that Shakespeare draws Hamlet as person who is very pessimistic about Denmark he is living in and that he wanted to commit suicide before meeting ghost, but can not because Catholic teaching says that people who commits suicide are to go to hell. My point is that is it the really Shakespeare is saying about existentialism? It is true that people turn into dust after short life of average 70~80 years. But think slowly. People tend to think very fast whether when you think slowly, you can catch up to another conclusion or opinion than others that is more unique and that, draws very balanced opinion. Think slowly, and you can see that life is short and that Hamlet's intellectual analogy of the world had become incredibly faster after seeing the ghost. Is it the grief and corruption that the Denmark shows? Is it the sadness and dust is what we are destined for? Is it the existence is actually meaningless? Is it really the life Hamlet was having meaningful life that he was grieving the whole time, planning revenge for whole time, criticizing the whole time?
Think slowly. You see the faster thought of Hamlet. Relax and see it in other way. Life is short. Life is meaningless according to Hamlet. But he was grieving, planning, and criticizing. Is not the life meaningless when it lacks meaning? Can you have meaningful life when grieving, planning, criticizing? Can you give a meaning to the corruption? Meaningless life results chaotic mind which can unfortunately can bring suicide.
But reverse the story. Reverse the entire Hamlet's life except that life is short. Life is short. So why grieve? Why criticize? Why plan revenge? Why should we not have better life when we can? So is not the life, exists to live greatly? In other words, to have happiness? Why can not just live away with father's death, corruption, criticism? True that grieving is the proper way to remember death, but life is too short for this. Life is too short for corruption. Life is too short for criticism.
I see the life as optimistic view. Pessimistic point can always exist. My thought is that Shakespeare’s message is that we need to have balanced life. We need to live along with those negative source and positive source. Shakespeare suggests to live life to have pessimistic and optimistic view. So enjoy life because it is short.
Response to Laura's Corruption post
ReplyDeleteI thoroughly enjoyed the main relation of your quotes to the un-weeded garden of corruption. It became a metaphor strongly represented throughout your analysis. But it would have remained strong if you kept it throughout the examination. The end should have held another mention of it just for the same effect it gave in the beginning. Apart from that, I thought the analysis of your quotes was highly impressive. Most of them moved past explanation and dove right into significance. I agree that the dysfunction began to grow in society after time rather than just affecting a number of people; at the end of the play, most of the characters were guilty of some form of corruption. Lastly, I enjoyed your extra quote from Horatio, whom at the end of the play skilfully summarized the results of corruption. It fit well with your analysis and thematic statement idea, because in the end, Horatio resulted as the only character free from immoral acts.
Response to Aaron's Madness post
ReplyDeleteIt was hard to differentiate between the two types of madness that Hamlet had in the play, but I think you explained it well enough. The timeline of events that you gave to illustrate Hamlet’s madness was effective and accurate. I agreed with all of the quotes representing clues towards Hamlet’s behaviour. I thought more emphasis could have been put into your thematic statement, which I’m assuming is the difference between Hamlet’s antic disposition and his real madness. However, one of your quotes led to the point where the difference was heightened and I thought that that was a strong analysis.
Response to Fiona’s corruption post
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your post on corruption because it allowed me to think of corruption in many different ways. It opened my mind to ideas on different aspects of where the play showed corruption that I did not notice before. I really like how you incorporated the ideas of selfishness and greed into the idea of corruption. Corruption is due to the bad decision and actions that a person does. Without the sense of selfishness and greed, corruption would not occur. I agree with you when you said, “If a garden remains unweeded, the weed will grow, spread, and steal the nutrition of other plants. This can be compared to our society, where the garden represents our world and the weed portrays a bad person who cause harm to others. Unless the weeds are taken out, it is very difficult to reach a peaceful world.” I liked how you showed the comparison between an unweeded garden to a corrupted world because like a garden, if the weeds are not taken out, the garden will never grow flowers or grass. Similarly, if a bad person is not taken out of the government, it will be hard for the kingdom to run smoothly. Finally, I really like how you pointed out the analogy that Shakespeare used to enhance the theme of corruption. It was a really effective way to prove that corruption existed within that quote! It really made me understand the idea of how the snake tempting Eve to eat the apple is similar to Claudius killing the King.
Response to Cherie’s madness post
ReplyDeleteI really like reading your post because it clearly identifies the debatable question of is Hamlet truly mad? I agree with you when you stated the idea of a gradual madness. “Shakespeare describes how the consequences of disguising oneself are so complex that it gradually influences reality, ultimately establishing itself on the personality of the character.” This is pointing out that maybe Hamlet was putting on an act at first but once he got deeper into his character, the madness became reality. I like that you picked the quote in (1.2.8) because in this quote, it is really hard for the audience to distinguish if Hamlet is truly mad or acting mad so that Ophelia will tell her dad, which will eventually reach the king. Even though it is believed that Hamlet had true feelings for Ophelia, it is difficult to tell if he is truly mad about this of faking it. I also recognized how you incorporated the idea of Hamlet’s suicidal thoughts to the effects of his madness. Even though suicide is such an unaccepted concept in the Elizabethan era, Hamlet brings up this idea a few times within the play. This could show that his madness is becoming a reality.
Response to Davide's lies post
ReplyDeleteTruly that Shakespeare's message about the lie is that it is a false word and evil. That is should not be done. But thinking that only saying truth will deduct the length of the life in usual case. What people do to extend their life? What people do to extend their whole fate? As what Claudius does, and Hamlet does, they perform evil. But you got the good point that lie is the evil. False word performed later connected as the death of both characters. I truly appreciate the analyze of yours.
Response to Merit K's madness post
ReplyDeleteI liked your analysis on Shakespeare theme of madness in the play Hamlet. I found that you made a lot of connections with this theme. I agree with what you believe Shakespeare is trying to say through the use of this theme. It is true that people who may suffer from a mental illness or some sort of abnormal state have an effect on their surrounding. Hamlet defiantly had this sort of effect in his environment. Those close to him saw a change is his character and became concerned for his well-being. But this change in character was Hamlet's plan and he used this to his advantage to manipulate those around him. The same happened to Ophelia. With the loss of her father she resorted to a mad mental state and those who cared for her became worried. I believed that Shakespeare makes the use of more than one character in the play to strength the theme of madness. By doing this it helps him get his message across of what madness can do to a person, whether it is done purposely or brought on by a mental breakdown. Madness is a contributing factor to what brought these two to their tragic death. It also was not entirely their own fault to why they became mad and eventually died. Other characters in the play contributed to their loss of sanity. Hamlet had so many mixed w=emotions of all the events that happed after his father's death. He had no real way of expressing how he felt in a more sane way. Ophelia as well, did not know how to cope with the murder of her father. She probably did not know all the details to what led to his murder. She was also coping with the breakup of hers and Hamlet's relationship. Other people in the play contributed to why these two came to the mental state they did. This is how Shakespeare shows how madness is not only affecting the person but also affects the people around them.
Response to Hansol’s Lies Post
ReplyDeleteI agree that Shakespeare relates to both lies and deception often throughout the play. I liked the way you linked the theme of lies to the different characters in your introduction paragraph. I also thought it was clever how you tied in deception because both lies and deception are closely related. However, I found that your quotes supported more of the theme of deception than of lies. I think that it would have been best to have explained how your quotes relate to both themes. Overall, I did enjoy reading your analysis and the connections that you made.
@Edwin Kam
ReplyDeleteI agree with your opinion since I also think every character in this play is insane. And they all crazy in different way, they all do things abnormally. King Claudius kills his brother, Gertrude marries to the one who murdered her husband, and Laretes and Ophelia drive nuts because of their father's death; Hamlet is acting crazy. but I think he actually has some mental problem in some of the scene,eg he kills Polonius and not telling where the dead body is. Anyways, i think your analysis is pretty detailed.
@Fiona Lai
ReplyDeleteVery detailed quotation and explaination.
I agree with your point that you says Shakespeare takes the main causes of corruption in our society like selfishness and greed, and incorporates them though the characters’ thoughts and actions. I think these are the element of causing corruption.
Glad to read your analysis.
Response to Kenneth's analysis- Lies
ReplyDeleteIn response to Kenneth's analysis, I also agree that the theme of lies has strongly been portrayed through a variety of different characters in Hamlet. I liked the way you analyzed your quotes and showed us the different scenerios in which the perception of lies takes place. It is true that Shakespeare enhances this theme by exposing the fact that many people feel shame and guilt due to their lies, which leads to future suspense and consequenes. Throughout the play, I strongly agree that Gertrude enhances the theme of lies because as in the quote that was mentioned,
"Good Hamlet, cast thy nighted color off, And let thine eye look like a friend on Denmark.
Do not forever with thy vailèd lids Seek for thy noble father in the dust.
Thou know’st ’tis common. All that lives must die, Passing through nature to eternity." (1.2.68-4),
Gertrude avoids the death of her husband, King Hamlet, and she shows the audience that death is completely normal. She does not grieve over King Hamlet's death or show any emotions towards this situation. Through her appearance, she convinces everyone else that she is not in pain by escaping from reality and lying to others, as well as herself. Overall, I believe that the analysis you made deeply connected to the theme of lies.
Response to Alison M.'s analysis- Corruption
ReplyDeleteIn response to Alison M.'s analysis, I agree that corruption not only affect one's mentality and morality through my analysis, but it drastically changes their relationships with one another. It is important to realize that there are many reasons that cause corruption, and I like the way you enhance the different relationships that takes place during the play that are strongly affected by corruption. In the quote that was mentioned,
“Tomorrow is Saint Valentine’s day,/All in the morning betime,/ And I a maid at your window, /To be your Valentine./ Then up he rose, and donn’d his clo’es,/ And dupp’d the chamber door,/ Let in the maid that out a maid/ Never departed more.” (4.5.48-55),
this expresses Ophelia's changing relationship with Hamlet and how the destruction due to the unwedded marriage and Hamlet's broken promises caused the end of their love. Relationships corrupt when one becomes selfish and ambitious, I agree with your main topic and I also like the way you analyzed your quotes.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Maryam Rahimo J’s post on procrastination.
ReplyDeleteI thought you explained your quotes really well and found your take on the message Shakespeare was trying to sendinteresting. I had interpreted Shakespeare’s message to be that people always say they want to do something, or that they think that something should be different, but then they do nothing to instigate this change. I feel Shakespeare was trying to highlight how people constantly wish things were different or say that they really want to do something and then when it comes to actually doing it they act cowardly and make up a bunch of excuses. I agree with you when you say that procrastination leads to unfortunate events because the longer a person waits to fix a situation, the more damage it will cause. We see this in the play by the amount of death and madness that occur before Hamlet finally builds up the nerve to go through with his revenge. Overall, I thought your analysis was very well thought out. :)
Response to Maryam's analysis-Procrastination
ReplyDeleteI agree with your concept on how procrastination causes further problems if not dealt quickly it will lead to negative consequences. Your theme works well currently with modern times since there is that issue on procrastination with high school students currently as well. It is true that through Hamlet's procrastination there were some negative consequences like the death of his mother and Ophelia. However I don't think Hamlet himself is a coward cause he ultimately does achieve his goal of killing Claudius it's just that Hamlet did it in such a roundabout way. Overall I found your analysis intriguing and very informative based on what Shakespeare tried to explain and reveal through this play
Response to Peter’s Madness post
ReplyDeleteI agreed with you that madness would result into no good, which would lead the play into a tragedy. Since Hamlet eventually died at the end of the play, and because of his madness, six more characters’ deaths were resulted. However, I do not agree with your thematic statement “Madness is a sin.” Perhaps, acting mad might be counted as a sin but I do not think that the real madness found on Ophelia should be considered as one too. As Ophelia was the only innocent character in the play, she has gone into complete madness due to the losses of her two loves, which were all caused by Hamlet. Besides, I think that some of your quotations were used inaccurately that I do not really see any connections with your theme. I think it would have been a better and a stronger analysis if you had only focused on how Hamlet’s antic disposition would result into no good or a tragedy.
Response to Ashley’s Procrastination post
ReplyDeleteI agreed with what you believed Shakespeare is trying to make the theme procrastination as Hamlet’s tragic flaw. It is true and obvious that his procrastination on his revenge plan has led to his downfall as he could have killed the king sooner if he had not delayed himself for so many times. I also agreed with your idea of how this theme has been developed at the beginning of the play, when Hamlet decided to act crazy after seeing his father’s ghost, and how it is expanded into a more intricate theme throughout the play. I also liked the way how you linked Hamlet’s procrastination to the others six characters’ deaths and the way you compared his procrastination with Laertes. Overall, I think that your quotations and analysis were strong and effective.
Response to Terrence's analysis-Revenge
ReplyDeleteI like your analysis of the theme Revenge, it was very thorough and intriguing in my opinion with some of the details you gave. I also completely agree with you that what Shakespeare is implying with revenge saying that it is only unprofitable and self-destructive. You could have also included that Laetres and Hamlet were "foil" characters of each other in terms of methods for revenge since Laetres is more immediate in his actions. In terms of your second quotation, I don't believe the relationship of Ophelia and Hamlet has been tainted by revenge since originally it was Ophelia obeying her father that led to her mistreatment by Hamlet. It is merely that his antic disposition made the situation worse since you can say that during this scene they were being watched by Polonius and Claudius. Overall I really liked your analysis of the theme, good job.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteResponse to Levana's Analysis - Corruption
ReplyDeleteIn response to Levana’s analysis, I really enjoyed reading your post about how the theme of corruption is evident in the main characters of Hamlet. I agree that not only does corruption affect your morals as a person but also the mental mind. I really like your example of Ophelia when she said “Tomorrow is Saint Valentine’s day, /All in the morning betime,/And I a maid at your window,/To be your valentine./Then up he rose, and donn’d his clo’es,/ Let in the maid that out a maid/Never departed more.” 4.5.48-55, because it shows not only does the death of Polonius affect her mental state but the loss of Hamlet’s love affects her as well. It drives her to the point of insanity. This really depicts of how truly Ophelia’s mind and emotions are corrupted, resulting in the inability to function as a normal person.
Response to Janice's Analysis-Revenge
ReplyDeleteIn response to Janice’s analysis, I really think that you have captured the essence of what Shakespeare is trying to say on the theme of revenge. I agree that the characters in the play seek revenge is because they want to release their anger on the person who they seek revenge against, in order to feel satisfy. I also believe that they seek revenge is because they want the person they seek revenge against to feel the pain they feel and through this, it becomes a chain reaction going back and forth. I like your example of Laretes in 4.5.132-135 “To this point I stand,That both the worlds I give to negligence, Let come what comes, only I’ll be reveng’d Most thoroughly for my father 4.5.132-135 “ It really shows that revenge can really do a deep change in a person just like how you mentioned that in the beginning , Laertes had that gentlemen like characteristics in him. Now that he seeks revenge for his father, he changed to a insane and mad man who only thirst for revenge.
this is afshin's second response:
ReplyDeleteResponse to Giulia’s post on Lies
I agree with your opinion on Shakespeare’s message about the triumph of truth over falsehood. I enjoyed the way that through your quote choices and analysis, you were able to show the lies that are told from mostly all the prominent characters in the play. You showed that lying is a reoccurring theme, in fact, every major incident in the play is somehow interconnected to a lie that has been told, as you described in your quote analysis. From Hamlet’s antic disposition to Polonius’ distrust in his son, they are all related to lies. Through your analysis, I think you were successful in displaying how everyone is guilty of lying, and by the end of the play, definitely paid for it. For example, when you discussed the example of Claudius’ plan to poison Hamlet’s drink and the utter failure of the execution, it is a clear example of the fact that Claudius’ constant lying was no use, as in a matter of seconds he lost the two things that he killed his brother for – his power and his wife. Claudius’ dependence on falsehood leads him to his downfall and his death at the end of the play, as nothing good can ever come out of a lie, as the truth is bound to come out at some time. In fact, one lie causes another lie, and this continues until they are exposed. His willingness to lie about Hamlet’s untimely death and the failure of his plan is clear evidence of the thematic message that Shakespeare wanted to portray in the play, as the truth always triumphs at the end, and will bring down the lies that have been created. Claudius, by the end of the play, lost everything due to the lies he told in the beginning. He only saw the benefits he will receive in the near future; however, he never expected how these lies will affect him long-term.
Response to Maryam’s post on Procrastination
ReplyDeleteTo respond to Maryam’s analysis, I definitely agree that procrastination is a major reason to Hamlet’s downfall by the end. I like how you pointed out that this is his tragic flaw, and this is evident several times in the play. Hamlet is never sure about his actions, and whether to trust his own instinct, which ends up leading into his procrastination of seeking revenge. Will and determination are key factors to one who wishes to seek revenge, as this is what fuels them to seek revenge in the first place. Procrastination definitely leads to their demise because due to all the time being wasted, detrimental events occur, such as the death of Ophelia, Laertes and Hamlet’s mother. As stated in your analysis, this is evident when he orchestrates a play similar to the death of his father to test the King’s reaction. His disbelief in the ghost and the fact that he needed to witness the first player in his Hecuba scene alone shows that Hamlet is trying to procrastinate in the murder of Claudius. However, I do not think that the antic disposition is a form of procrastination. His plan for the antic disposition, in my opinion, was simply to distract the King and Queen as well as others conspiring against him to assure the success of his revenge. If anything, this helped him when trying to seek revenge, as everyone disregarded his actions and blamed it on the madness. He fooled everyone, and thus no one expected him to accomplish what he did. This is evident when his mother blames the murder of Polonius on Hamlet’s madness rather than Hamlet himself. This proves the success of Hamlet’s use of the antic disposition. Overall, I agree with the thematic message that Shakespeare is portraying, and the quotes you choose to provide evidence, however, I don’t agree with the antic disposition as a procrastination tactic.
Response to Giulia’s post on Lies
ReplyDeleteI agree with your opinion on Shakespeare’s message about the triumph of truth over falsehood. I enjoyed the way that through your quote choices and analysis, you were able to show the lies that are told from mostly all the prominent characters in the play. You showed that lying is a reoccurring theme, in fact, every major incident in the play is somehow interconnected to a lie that has been told, as you described in your quote analysis. From Hamlet’s antic disposition to Polonius’ distrust in his son, they are all related to lies. Through your analysis, I think you were successful in displaying how everyone is guilty of lying, and by the end of the play, definitely paid for it. For example, when you discussed the example of Claudius’ plan to poison Hamlet’s drink and the utter failure of the execution, it is a clear example of the fact that Claudius’ constant lying was no use, as in a matter of seconds he lost the two things that he killed his brother for – his power and his wife. Claudius’ dependence on falsehood leads him to his downfall and his death at the end of the play, as nothing good can ever come out of a lie, as the truth is bound to come out at some time. In fact, one lie causes another lie, and this continues until they are exposed. His willingness to lie about Hamlet’s untimely death and the failure of his plan is clear evidence of the thematic message that Shakespeare wanted to portray in the play, as the truth always triumphs at the end, and will bring down the lies that have been created. Claudius, by the end of the play, lost everything due to the lies he told in the beginning. He only saw the benefits he will receive in the near future; however, he never expected how these lies will affect him long-term.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteResponse to Danielle's Post - Quote #5
ReplyDeleteI like that you have taken on the point of view that Hamlet truly did love Ophelia and have justified it with "a sudden moment of clarity". It is indeed understandable that a death will cause somebody to re-evaluate their actions and life. As well, I agree with how you have drawn a comparison with the death of Ophelia with the eventual death of Hamlet. I agree with the conclusion that madness ends in destruction and death as proven through both Ophelia and Hamlet.
Alan's Response to Edwin Kam
ReplyDeleteFor the most of your response, I agree because Hamlet's and Ophelia's madness were most strongly portrayed contrasting feigned madness and genuine madness. Both had gone mad as a result of having lost a loved one dear to them. However, I do not agree that King Claudius, Queen Gertrude and Laertes were mad. Based on your analysis, you clearly lacked sufficient supporting evidence to support your claim. In my opinion, the King and Queen were simply corrupted people who desired power and fame. Hence, they would emphasize the theme of corruption rather the theme of madness. Additionally, Laertes supports the theme of Revenge rather the theme of madness. He was simply driven by anger, hence, he decided to pursue revenge. Overall, you made a fair analysis with your usage of quotations. It would be better if you also discussed about the ambiguity of Hamlet's madness, whether he was truly mad or just feigning it and at what situations.
Good Effort!
Alan
@Sammie Leung’s
ReplyDeleteI agree with your argument that our existence is nothing but temporarily because everyone has to eventually die. Although out bodies would turn to dust, we wouldn’t care unless out souls reach heaven. I agree that this theme is especially important during the time period when this play was written, since Christianity was a big controversy during the time. Shakespeare was indeed trying to convey the message that who we are during life do not decide whether we’re going to heaven or not, but rather our actions. Suicide would affect where we go in the afterlife, but no one wants to try it because what human beings fear most about death is where we’re going.
@Peter Lee’s
Personally, I agree with your argument that “acting mad” could result in a downfall/ or unfortunate events. We have seen up until now that due to Hamlet’s antic-disposition, that many deaths or unhappiness had resulted. A good example would be Ophelia. Ophelia had become depressed and mad herself when the man she loved does not love for her and her father murdered (due to Hamlet’s obsession of getting revenge) by the man she loves. Because of Hamlet neglecting her to pretend he‘s mad, his anti-disposition contributes to Ophelia’s death
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete