Category: Hamlet

Hamlet is one of Shakespeares most revered plays since the Elizabethan time. It has managed to garner various literary analysis, criticisms and appreciations. Most literary analysis entails authors interpretation of various reasons behind happenings in the play. This argumentative essay aims at arguing out the reasons for Hamlets choice of Fortinbras as his successor as Act V Scene II ends.

The contemplative stance taken by Hamlet at various scenes in the play presents us with the idea that there exist reasons for him to name Fortinbras as his successor (Mays and Hunter 50). Hamlet was an intellectual, witty and full of natural tendency of doing right, hence must have had his reasons for choosing Fortinbras as his heir to the throne.

First, the main reason for Hamlets selection of Fortinbras as heir to his throne is personal experiences. Hamlet and Fortinbras suffered the same fate when their rightful place as heirs to Denmark and Norwegian thrones respectively were taken away by their uncles (Jackson 127). This makes the two seek revenge, but the methods and dedication to the revenge differs entirely. Fortinbras is extremely dedicated and has to be restrained against fighting Denmark to avenge his fathers death, while Hamlet is reluctant until prompted by the ghost (Prosser 293).

Further, the reason for Hamlet to choose Fortinbras as an heir was because Fortinbras was strong and courageous as he showed in his part as army commander. Hamlet observed that the delicate and tender prince (Jackson 126), risks his life when honor is at stake (Jackson 126). He is moved by Fortinbras willingness and courage to die for in Act VI Scene 4 line 19-20 as he says little patch of ground that hath in it no profit but the name (Jackson 128).

This admiration of his courage could be the reason he bestows his rightful throne to a courageous person who will do whatever it takes to ensure the thrones safety. Through Fortinbras, he ensured the throne was in the safest hands, one with courage and honor, than to fall in the hands of unworthy and callous characters as his uncle, Claudius.

Choice of Fortinbras is an act to usurp his place as the rightful king and avenge for the injustice done to Fortinbras, as well as him. He admires Fortinbras courage and dedication to his course that it motivates him to seek revenge for his fathers death. He demonstrates this effect when he is informed of the purpose of Fortinbras army in Poland by saying My thoughts be bloody, or be nothing worth! (Jackson 127). He decides to avenge the death of his father as it is a just course and noble than that Fortinbras has in risking, in Poland, hence may have influenced his decision to select him as a successor.

The other reason is because Hamlet believed that by selecting Fortinbras power shall be passed into capable and worthy hands. He admired Fortinbras as demonstrated by his hate of procrastinating avenging his fathers death whereas Fortinbras was restrained from fighting against Denmark in vengeance of his own fathers death (Stuart Club and Tudor 267). Fortinbras is dutiful, respectful to his parents and determined to serve the royal course as demonstrated by his willingness to fight for Norway and readiness to avenge the deaths of his father. This willingness and readiness Hamlet admires and would be the reason for his decision of appointing him to be his successor.

Additionally, the reason could be for Fortinbras to continue with the restoration of the kingdom where he had reached. Selection of Fortinbras acts as a sign of restoration to its fallen state from integrity to corruption cunningness and treachery. The phrase in Act I scene 4 line 90, Something is rotten in the state of Denmark (Richardson 173), serves to depict the woeful state of Denmark leadership.

This is also evidenced by Horatios request for the coronation of Fortinbras to be quick to avoid other people taking advantage of the chaotic Denmark (Mays et al 203). Another argument for Hamlets selection could be because Fortinbras has the capability to lead Denmark to greater prosperity than Claudius. His expertise is demonstrated at the beginning of the play; Act I scene 1line 95, through the phrase young Fortinbras Of unimproved mettle hot and full (Richardson 173). He could have envisioned a better person in Fortinbras than the conniving Claudius or any member of the council as an heir to his throne.

Another reason could be an act to reconcile with Fortinbras for the death of his father. Hamlet could be trying to be kind and reconcile with Fortinbras having had gone through the pain of losing a father first hand. This will ensure the same atrocities committed to them shall not happen in the next regime. He seeks to make peace and leave the throne a better one than the Claudius leadership.

In conclusion, the choice made by Hamlet in choosing Fortinbras as his successor is wise. This is due to personal affection to him, personal life of suffering the same fate and aim to safeguard the interest of the nation. Other reasons include reconciliatory effort, ensure a continuation of the thrones restoration and that he believed that Fortinbras was capable and worthy of holding the throne.

Works cited

Booth, Mays and Paul Hunter. The Norton Introduction to Literature, New York, NY: W.W. Norton, 2005. Print.

Prosser, Eleanor. Hamlet and Revenge, California: Stanford University Press, 1971. Print.

Richardson, David. Revolutionary Theater and the Classical Heritage: Inheritance and Appropriation from Weimar to the GDR, New York, NY: Peter Lang, 2007. Print.

Tudor and Stuart Club (Johns Hopkins University). Journal of literary history, Maryland: Johns Hopkins University Press 15 (1948): 260-273. Print.

Introduction

Death yields severe pain in most people, and they get upset even though they do not anticipate it, influencing them to struggle in search of solutions. A similar case is present in plays such as Hamlet by William Shakespeare and Oedipus by Sophocles (Ayumba 1). Both are driven by the desire to explore the truth and punish the culprit as they possess resilience. They face multiple obstacles that necessitate extreme power to overcome them. Although they have similarities, variations in their approaches to discovering the facts and methods of showing resilience exist. Given both characters different approaches to digging the truth regarding the murderer various challenges they face during the search and discovering their pasts, Oedipus and Hamlet display a diverse level of resilience

Both characters are similar in the fact that they are hunting for the truth behind king Laiuss death. They are tragic characters as they are deceived by their parents (Ayumba 1). They possess noble intentions regardless of the flaws, as the actions they employed were life challenging. Furthermore, they were desperate to search for the truth; hence, both would leave no stone unturned through various means. Hamlet, a complex person, believes in his intuition and implements sleek techniques to unveil the truth. In contrast, king Oedipus applies logic and explores the killer as a detective would act.

Oedipus realized that he murdered his father and remarried his biological mother as was foretold, and this disclosure tremors him Sophocles note, Is there a man more agonized? More wed to agony and fury? Not a human in the universe&. Hamlet is appalled to realize from his fathers ghost that his uncle was the murderer (Resilience In The Play Oedipus The King 1). Both characters experienced shock and disappointment and found it difficult to accept the truth. Moreover, Oedipus becomes furious and hurries to murder his wife and mother, blinding his actions in despair. He notes, I stabbed out those eyes.He finds it challenging as he cannot handle the agony and guilt resulting from his actions and accept that learning the truth was not worth passing away his wifes dishonesty.

Dissimilarly, the Hamlet, does not get immersed into a rage but swears to retaliate as directed by the ghost; he notes, Remember me, I have sworn. Following the initial disbelief, he is driven by the determination to avenge King Laiuss death instead of being filled with the desire to harm everything near him (Resilience In The Play Oedipus The King 1). Sophocles Oedipus Rex illustrates his journey to digging the truth, while Hamlet narrates the story of revenge. Oedipus blinds his terrible actions because of his devastating discovery and then pledges to spend his life in exile as he cannot live with the impacts of his deeds. Hamlet is determined to murder his uncle driven by revenge for his fathers death.

Oedipus

King Oedipus, driven by the determination to search for states solutions, becomes frustrated and agitated when he learns that King Laiuss killer has not been located. He wondered why the culprit behind the incident had not been discovered, given that the sphinx curse had been resolved (Tyrrell 108). He took the initiative and solved the states problems when he addressed his brother in La Creon and made him promise to find the perpetrator and restore the states security. Subsequently, he demonstrated fantastic resilience in his quest to locate the killer and restore the states security. He strategizes effectively in learning every piece of information that can lead to discovering the answers and interrogating every potential witness.

His initial quest began by questioning Tiresias, the blind predictor, and hearing his wife Jocasta illustrating the incident of Laiuss killer. Although he is exceptionally decisive, he lacks political duplicity due to the mania of learning the fact about the person responsible for Laiuss death (Resilience In The Play Oedipus The King 1). Moreover, he is not frightened by the threats he experienced concerning his life and losing the power of a king. Oedipus possesses unwavering faith that he is acting accordingly in his quest for answers. He notes that words fright, not him who lightens not at the actions during his conversation with the chorus, which cautions him regarding the situations that contributed to the slewing of king Laius. Therefore, his words display assurance for his integrity and the determination to uncover the truth as he is most assured that reality is incapable of harming the innocent.

Hamlet

While King Oedipus demonstrates extraordinary resilience as he scours the city in search of king Laius killer, Hamlet displays tokenism. Although he is involuntary seeking the truth, he remains alert as he realizes that something was amiss when his mother remarried shortly after the passing away of his father (Shakespeare 8). As a result, Hamlet is demonstrated as a philosopher instead of a combatant. Consequently, Hamlet will likely get involved in more contemplation before prioritizing situations that transpire in his quest for a fact. He utilizes his intuition to handle the questions tormenting him during his monologues. He is aware that the interdicting evil was eventually confirmed during uncovering the truth concerning king Laiuss death, which his fathers ghost informs him of.

While king Oedipus is wholly committed and determined to find the underlying cause of the death, Hamlet prefers to go for the ghost. Hamlet fails to inquire regarding the truth about the killing directly, like king Oedipus (Ayumba 1). Despite king Oedipus resilience exposing him to danger, he remained focused with a desire to reveal the truth concerning the death. He is brave and straightforward and does not pay much attention to the insinuating words, which aids him in learning the truth. Dissimilarly, Hamlet, displays inventiveness in his quest to search for the culprit.

Conclusion

Although both characters have the same mission of discovering the truth, their techniques of unveiling it differ. During their search, they discover challenging truths regarding their past. Both characters were resolute in their quest to discover the truth, which is admirable. However, king Oedipus was more resilient and strong-minded despite having threats on his life and the danger of losing the throne; he demonstrated immeasurable dedication to hunting the killer and reestablishing the states safety. Nonetheless, Hamlet tends to remain alert after the gods curse upon his mothers remarriage soon after the death of King Laius. Hamlets concepts and aspirations fail to guide him in securing the truth. Instead, he was fueled by the solemn pledge which he commenced to reinstate justice and ensure the penalty of his fathers assassin takes place. To achieve such goals, Hamlet would have displayed a playful attitude in his lifecycle to overcome his fears in the fights and struggles. Therefore, he lacked resilience by incorporating his feelings and emotions, which controlled his thoughts and contributed to his death.

Works Cited

Resilience in the Play Oedipus the King. Studygroom, 2020.

Ayumba, Dorothy. Comparing Hamlet to Oedipus Resilience » Studyexcell. Studyexcell, 2021.

Shakespeare, William. The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Prabhat Prakashan, 2021, pp. 1-32.

Tyrrell, William B. The Oedipus Casebook: Reading Sophocles Oedipus the King. Michigan State University, 2020.pp. 1-473.

Introduction

Shakespeare is a master craftsman who depicted almost all aspects of human life and psyche in his great tragedies. Hamlet is one of his all-time great tragedies that have a carefully drafted plot, characterization, development of conflicts, dramatic ironies, and a setting conducive to the development of pity and terror in the audience. He captures the attention of the audience in the very first scene of the play and the spectators throughout the play are left in awe and tension regarding when and how Hamlet would avenge the murder of his father. Even though the play, in this respect, can be read as a revenge play, it assumes greater significance in its tragic nature and effects on the audience. The play can be rightly understood as a tragic depiction of the tragic hero Hamlet who suffers and finally ruins his own life because of the tragic flaw in his character- that of procrastination or indecision.

The theme of the drama

Characterization assumes greater significance in Hamlet. The theme of the drama can be best understood through the characterization of the protagonist, Hamlet. The tragedy of Hamlet can be best understood concerning Aristotles conception of a tragic hero. According to Aristotle, a tragic hero is a person of noble birth, who had all heroic qualities, suffers from a hamartia, a tragic flaw or weakness in his character that leads him to his catastrophe or downfall. Hamlet confronts the ghost of his father in Scene V, Act I of the play and the ghost discloses that he had been murdered by Claudius and that Hamlet has to avenge his death. The plot develops based on the Elizabethans traditional belief that the murdered persons soul will not be saved until his murder is being avenged. The spectator expects Hamlet to take revenge on Claudius, the antagonist of the play, which he does not.

Hamlet, on the other hand, postpones his action to the last moment. At first, he is suspicious regarding the credulousness of the ghost and he waits to make sure whether Claudius himself has committed the cruel deed. After the staging of the play within the play, he is quite convinced of his Uncles and mothers part in the murder. Even then he is incapable of acting promptly because of his tragic flaw. His mind is full of thoughts and plans regarding revenge. In Act III, Scene I he tells Ophelia: I am very proud revengeful, ambitious; with more offenses at my beck than I have thoughts to put them in, imagination to give them shape, or time to act them in (III. I, 123-128). However, instead of taking his revenge, Hamlet is moved by moral, psychological, and philosophical speculations. For instance, in Act III, Scene III, one finds Hamlet not trying to kill Claudius during prayer as he believes that this would take his soul to heaven as  he is fit and seasoned for his passage(III. iii, 86). One can feel the inner conflicts that pass and torment his mind. He conflicts with Claudius; however, his conflict within himself is much more powerful, deeper, and stronger. The To be or not to be soliloquy best displays the inner struggles in him:-

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 (III. I, 56-59). The question here is whether to live or to die. He even thinks of committing suicide but is unable to subject himself to the thought as he thinks that people would consider it to be cowardice. Thus, he makes a lot of plans and schemes. However, he fails to do the inevitable and this procrastination causes his downfall in the end.

The character of Laertes

Shakespeare presents the character of Laertes in foil to that of Hamlet. Unlike Hamlet, Laertes is very prompt to take revenge on Hamlet, who has killed his father Polonius. He is bold enough to challenge Hamlet for a dual to avenge the murder of his father However, Hamlet is not incapable of action. This is evident when he kills the eavesdropping Polonius, mistaking him to be Claudius. The way he tricks both Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to death the heroic manner by which he accepts Laertes challenge for the dual, and the way he, at last, manages to kill Claudius all suggest that he is capable of performing courageous and shrewd actions. His killing of Polonius has made others consider him mad and even the spectators are at times tend to doubt the sanity of Hamlet.

But a close reading of the novel convinces one that his madness or insanity is only a pretension. Ophelia is the only character in the play who turns out to be mad because of the insane behavior of Hamlet and his continued neglect of her. But even the madness and subsequent drowning of Ophelia does not distract Hamlet or make him abnormal. Thus, the theme of madness is also projected in the play through these two characters-one mad and the other pretending to be so. Thus, all the characters in Hamlet play their parts to bring about the tragic effect envisioned by the dramatist and his superb characterization helps the reader to build, project, revise, compound, and complicate the image of the characters throughout the reading of the play. (Understanding the Text, p. 1044).

Shakespeare employs the classical dramatic structure in Hamlet- the play begins with an exposition, moves to rising action reaches the climax, and moves to a falling action which culminates in the catastrophe or the actual tragedy. Shakespearean tragedies begin with a capturing exposition that introduces the problem and builds tension in the audience. In Hamlet, the appearance of the ghost in the second scene of the first act arouses the attention of the audience. Later in the fourth scene of the same act, one comes across Hamlet confronting the ghost. This supernatural element is maintained by Shakespeare throughout the play. We have instances in the play where the ghost reminds Hamlet of his duties.

Do not forget; this visitation/ Is but to whet thy almost blunted purpose (III. iv. 110-111) exhorts the ghost to Hamlet. Similarly, the symbol of Yoricks skull also is suggestive. It suggests the transitory nature of human existence and foreshadows the plight that is awaiting Hamlet himself. In the rising action of the play, one comes across the tension and conflicts mounting up in the minds of Hamlet as well as in the spectators. The staging of the play within the play unravels the climax. Then the ground is prepared for the falling action which culminates in the duel between Hamlet and Laertes and the subsequent killing of the two along with the murder of the antagonist, Claudius. The structure of the play helps to keep the spectators in awe and suspense throughout the play. Dramatic ironies are widely employed in the play; everyone hopes that Hamlet would take revenge when he gets Claudius alone in the prayer room, but he does not. The greatest dramatic irony is that even though the spectator wants Hamlet to be triumphant in the end, the play ends in his destruction.

Conclusion

Thus, there is no doubt that Hamlet is a superb theatrical performance that has a well-structured plot, characterization, and powerful themes. One can never forget the stage and settings made by the master dramatist in the play. The Shakespearean stage was divided into three parts and very often the ghost appearing from the downstage and disappearing into the upper stage had special theatric effects. Almost all the actions in the play take place in and around the castle of Ellsinore in Denmark. The dramatic art of Shakespeare is thus unmatched and his poetic use of the language adds to their effectiveness. The tragedy of Hamlet lingers and haunts the spectators for a long period after watching or reading the play and one feels sympathy for Ophelia and that is how one comes to acknowledge the dramatic art in Hamlet.

References

Shakespeare, William. Hamlet. The Complete Works of William Shakespeare. New Delhi: Oxford & IBH Publishing Company, 2005. Understanding the Text. p. 1044.

According to Aristotles definition of tragedy, every tragic character has to face an unexpected reveal. When encountering it, Hamlet demonstrates greater resilience than Oedipus. Hamlet does not break down under the new knowledge, he does not relent even as the situation worsens, and he does not allow his attachments to divert him from his purpose.

To begin with, Hamlet demonstrates greater resilience upon his reveal. Upon learning of Claudiuss crime, he simply swears to wipe away all trivial fond records from his memory and avenge the deed (Shakespeare I.V). Oedipus, on the other hand, crumbles upon the revelation and screams: On these eyes / Shed light no more, ye everlasting skies in despair (Sophocles 71). Thus, while Hamlet has the strength to hear terrible news and not crumble, Oedipus does not.

Apart from that, Hamlet is relentless in his duty even as the situation worsens. When he learns that the weapons for his duel with Laertes are poisoned, he simply exclaims: Then, venom, to thy work and stabs Claudius (Shakespeare V.II). Oedipus, however, cannot withstand his tragic change of fortune and blinds himself instead (Sophocles 71). Hence, Hamlets resilience also manifests in his ability to continue struggling despite the circumstances.

Finally, Hamlet is more resilient because he does not let his loved ones to distract him. Upon learning of Ophelias death, he mourns and says his sorrow / conjures the wandering stars, but still proceeds to avenge his father (Shakespeare V.I). Yet Oedipus wavers in his decision to exile himself when seeing his children and asks Creon: Ah no! Take not away my daughters! (Sophocles 86). Thus, the loved ones cannot shatter Hamlets determination but make Oedipus hesitate.

To summarize, Hamlet is more resilient than Oedipus for three reasons. First of all, he accepts his reveal stoically rather than in despair. Secondly, he soldiers on regardless of the negative turns of events. Thirdly, even his loved ones cannot make him hesitate and diver from his course.

Works Cited

Shakespeare, William. Hamlet. Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Web.

Sophocles. Oedipus, King of Thebes. Translated by Gilbert Murray. Project Gutenberg. Web.

William Shakespeares Hamlet is deservedly regarded as one of the most essential tragedies in human history. The play is remarkable because it stays relevant and timeless, as evidenced by the fact that it has been staged in theaters all over the globe for more than 400 years. Shakespeare, however, was a man of his time, an Englishman living in the age of the Renaissance. Any work of art, no matter how innovative, cannot escape the constraints of time and space. To properly comprehend Hamlet, it is vital to analyze the historical period in which William Shakespeare worked as well as the origin of the Hamlet story. This information will help us grasp the essence of this magnificent masterpiece.

The legend of Hamlet was first recorded by the Danish historian Saxo Grammaticus in his anthology of stories and chronicles called Gesta Danorum, published at the end of the 15th century. According to lore, one of the pagan Jutland kings, Gervendill, was assassinated by his brother Feng. He then married the deceaseds widow and took over his property. Young Hamlet (or Amleth), the victims son, was tasked with avenging his fathers murder. Amleth feigned to be deranged to fool the murderer, but Feng continued to distrust his nephew and attempted to force him to reveal his actual motives.

Nevertheless, Amleth had been informed of the risk by his friend, who later became Horatio in Shakespeares play. One of the courtiers (Shakespeares Polonius) attempted to eavesdrop on Amleths chat with his mother but was caught and murdered by Amleth. Feng sent his stepson to England accompanied by two courtiers, who in Shakespeares Hamlet became Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, to deliver a letter to the English monarch, where it was said that Amleth should be killed. However, Amleth managed to change the letter, and his companions were killed instead of him. Amleth married the English kings daughter and returned to Jutland with her, where he was presumed dead. He set fire to the palace, where drunken courtiers celebrated Amleths return and beheaded Feng, fulfilling his blood revenge obligation.

Shakespeares play was written in 1601; he depicted 17th century England using the old story as a foundation. Shakespeare converses with his contemporaries about lifes major challenges. According to Saxo Grammaticus, Amleth is smart, ingenious, strong, vicious, and capable of not only committing murder but also ridiculing a corpse. Amleth embodies the values of his time, and he understands little about moral anguish. The tragedy of Hamlet, according to Shakespeare, is that a man with a mind and heart suffered a mental breakdown when he witnessed the dark side of life  incest, deceit, and death of loved ones.

He lost trust in mankind, in love, and life as a whole. He pretended to be insane, but the cruelty of everyone around him nearly made him a madman. The skill of handling a sword was prized above all else during Shakespeares time, and deception was not perceived as a vice. Hamlet begins to act, convincing himself that he is battling for the restoration of universal justice, not for his own life and kingdom: The time is out of joint; O cursed spite, That ever I was born to set it right! (Shakespeare 33).

As an alumnus of the University of Wittenberg, Hamlet may have been fond of science, art, and activities that serve humanity. Nevertheless, he was forced to seek vengeance, lie, cheat, and kill. His insanity is not only a means of self-defense but also a way of telling the truth to others. He publicly deceives Polonius, Rosencrantz, and Guildenstern, and deprives them of life in cold blood.

In The Mousetrap scene, Hamlet wishes to prove Claudius guilt. Not only does he want to kill the false-hearted king, but he also wants to assure him that he will be punished (Shakespeare 70-72). Hamlet is not at all idle; he is plotting vengeance, even though he knows the killing will upend his whole life. The famous monologue To be, or not to be? expresses Hamlets struggle to decide whether he wants to be a killer or a victim (Shakespeare 54). The ancient legends Amleth could not face such a question. William Shakespeare, as well as his character, was a Renaissance man whose tragedy was the existence of divergence between aspirations and reality and the inability to live according to ones souls ideals. Hamlet dies not as a defender of justice but as a regular victim of political intrigue.

Thus, while Hamlet is the victor in Saxo Grammaticus version, he is represented as the victim in Shakespeares play, who does not fight but only defends himself. He has doubts and tries to live up to great ideals, yet he fails. People who are ahead of their time often become victims, as Shakespeare demonstrated. When looking at Hamlet through the lens of history, we can get a new perspective on the old story. Shakespeares Hamlet is an example of rewriting a classic tale from the perspective of contemporary values. The character rejects archaic pagan morality, which holds that a person is good if he is willing to exterminate his adversaries. The persons inner world is far more essential to Shakespeare, and violence, on the other hand, has no significance. Presumably, such a viewpoint is still held by many people today, and Shakespeares Hamlet will remain relevant.

Despite the fact that Claudius is introduced as the main antagonist in William Shakespeares play Hamlet, he actually posses a number of strong qualities. In the beginning, the character shares his emotions about the death of the king and demonstrates his intention to support the family and to bear our hearts in grief and out whole kingdom/To be contracted in one brow of woe (Shakespeare 2018, p.15). However, it is just his appearance that contradicts the reality that is revealed by the ghost as that incestuous, that adulterate beast/With witchcraft of his wit, with traitorous gifts (Shakespeare 2018, p. 45). Claudius does not want to grieve all the time when he decides to marry the queen. It is a matter of time when people get to know that he is the one who killed Hamlets father, which crosses out all positive moments connected with the character.

The theme of sin and salvation is one of the crucial elements in the play that determines the development of Hamlet as a single character and the plot in general. There are many examples of how Hamlet sees sin and the possibility to ask for forgiveness, but he does not want to forgive but to revenge. He is instructed by the ghost to revenge his foul and most unnatural murder (Shakespeare 2018, p. 44). However, he cannot complete this mission because of the dilemmas that are developed around the idea of killing his uncle. On the one hand, he will become a murder that is one of the most terrible sins that sends him directly to Hell. On the other hand, he cannot allow Claudius to die and achieve salvation. Sin and salvation go hand in hand in the plot, and it is hard to observe a happy ending because none of the characters is able to find a balance between these two concepts.

Reference

Shakespeare, William. 2018. Hamlet. PdfCorner.

Introduction

Being a thematically intricate and unbelievably nuanced work, Shakespeares Hamlet incorporates a plethora of ideas. However, of all concepts that the play embraces, the one of loyalty seems to be particularly persistent and ubiquitous throughout the narrative.

Although vengeance and the corruption of power are usually regarded as the main themes portrayed in Hamlet, it is the one of loyalty that proves to be the centerpiece of the composition and the glue that holds the play together, serving as Hamlets motivation and the driving force behind his actions, also juxtaposing him to the rest of the characters, who are devoid of loyalty entirely.

Analysis

Hamlet: The Only Character with Loyalty

Throughout the play, loyalty remains the defining feature of Hamlets personality as he realizes that his father was murdered. In fact, one could argue that, by making Hamlet the only character who is allowed to have loyalty as one of his defining characteristics, Shakespeare not only makes Hamlet special but also isolates him from the rest of the characters, thus, predetermining the emergence of another vital theme of the play, namely, Hamlets loneliness. Therefore, even though Hamlet has several crucial themes integrated firmly into its plot and character development, namely, the one of vengeance, Hamlets loneliness, and the concept of betrayal, all of them stem from the foundational theme of loyalty (Rhodes 106).

Additionally, loyalty becomes the main characteristic of the leading character that singles him out from the rest of the characters in the play. Indeed, even those that are supposed to be Hamlets friends eventually submit to Claudius arguments, either due to his power or due to being convinced that Hamlet has gone insane: Both your Majesties/Might, by the sovereign power you have of us,/Put your dread pleasures more into command/Than to entreaty (Shakespeare Act II Scene I lines 1110-1112). Therefore, none of the characters retains any semblance of loyalty to Hamlet or the deceased king, consequently, making the specified quality the defining characteristic of the protagonist.

Absence of Loyalty in People Close to Hamlet

Apart from being portrayed directly in the play, the concept of loyalty is also turned inside out to reinforce the significance of the theme and loyalty as a quality. Specifically, the glaring absence of loyalty and, therefore, the propensity toward betrayal is evident and eventually proven true in every major character in the play. While Claudius and Gertrude are supposed to be devoid of loyalty as the main villains of the story, other characters that an unsuspecting reader might initially believe to be supportive turn out to be traitors. For instance, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, Hamlets childhood friends, are recruited by Claudius to spy on Hamlet, thus, breaking the bond of their friendship: But we both obey,/And here give up ourselves, in the full bent,/To lay our service freely at your feet,/To be commanded (Shakespeare Act II Scene I lines 1114-1116).

Likewise, Ophelia, who is portrayed as Hamlets main love interest, eventually yields to the pressure of Claudius and Gertrude and uses her friendship with Hamlet to spy on him. In turn, unsuspecting Hamlet confesses his love, showing his unwavering loyalty, which creates a stark contrast with Ophelias conniving behavior: Doubt thou the stars are fire;/Doubt that the sun doth move;/Doubt truth to be a liar; / But never doubt I love (Shakespeare Act II Scene II line 1212). Therefore, Ophelia distances herself from the notion of loyalty, showing her weakness and inability to defend her friendship with Hamlet.

Loyalty as the Starting Point

Loyalty also plays a huge role in Hamlet since it sets the entire play into motion, serving as the catalyst for Hamlet to make a decision to act. Given Hamlets rather indecisive nature and the propensity toward observing rather than acting, as it is emphasized throughout the play, the specified impact is quite noteworthy: Haste me to knowt, that I, with wings as swift / As meditation or the thoughts of love, / May sweep to my revenge (Shakespeare Act I Scene V line 765). Therefore, while not being named directly, the idea of keeping allegiance to specific people and ideas is perpetuated in the very plot of the play.

In fact, the presence of loyalty in Hamlets motivation and in the very body of the narrative is what allows elevating the protagonists motives and viewing them as noble. While the concept of revenge is usually seen as a primal and mostly instinctive feeling that does not contain much humanity, loyalty as the feeling of deep affection allows one to become a better version of oneself. As a result, when Hamlet decides to avenge the king, it is his love for his father and loyalty to him that makes Hamlet relatable to the reader.

Loyalty as the Characteristic That Makes Hamlet Humane and Relatable

The relatability of Hamlet as a character hinges on his allegiance to his father and love for the deceased patriarch is what makes the lading character so sympathetic to the reader. Though Hamlets indecisiveness might alienate some readers, his devotion to and love for his father is instantly understandable and relatable for most readers. Thus, the specified quality becomes the main characteristic of the protagonist.

Moreover, this characteristic is expanded further, creating the platform for the tragic narrative, as Hamlet, who is initially loyal to Ophelia, Rosencrantz, and Guildenstern, eventually becomes disappointed in each of them. Thus, when Hamlet is gradually betrayed and abandoned by all of them, his character development reaches the peak of tragedy: Why did you laugh then, when I said Man delights not me? (Shakespeare Act II Scene II 1405).

Loyalty as Juxtaposition to Betrayal

Furthermore, while vengeance is typically seen as the main inciting force that encourages Hamlet to plan his stepfathers demise, it is Hamlets loyalty to his father that supports him and gives him strength. For instance, Hamlet confesses the following: So, uncle, there you are. Now to my word:/It is Adieu, adieu! Remember me./I have swornt. (Shakespeare Act 1 Scene 5 lines 848-850). The specified sentiment is indicative of the lead characters desire to make a change in memory of his father as opposed to committing a murder as an eye-for-an-eye type of revenge.

Finally, Hamlets loyalty to his father and his cause allows the prince to remain morally superior to his enemies. As a result, the line that would have been viewed as contemptuous, portraying the lad as arrogant, sounds quite natural in the play: My fathers brother, but no more like my father/Than I to Hercules (Shakespeare Act I Scene II line 355). Moreover, the reader perceives Hamlets wrath and indignation as warranted, becoming emotionally invested in the characters story and plight.

Conclusion

Despite ostensibly placing vengeance and the need for retaliation at the forefront of the play, Hamlet also centers the concept of loyalty as the quality that distinguishes Hamlet from the rest and that serves as his main motivation, thus, defining his relationships to the rest of the characters and, ultimately, determining his loneliness. Thus, Hamlets plight, as well as his character arc, becomes instantly understandable and relatable to any reader. Therefore, while being introduced covertly in the play, the theme of loyalty remains its leitmotif and the main vehicle driving the action.

Works Cited

Rhodes, Kimberly. Ophelia and Victorian Visual Culture: Representing Body Politics in the Nineteenth Century, 2nd edition. Routledge, 2017.

Shakespeare, William. The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. OpenSource Shakespeare, 1603.

The theme of loneliness has been explored countless times in numerous works of literature, yet the ones that address the specified issue most authentically are Hamlet and Odysseus. Although each of the specified pieces of literature approaches the concept of loneliness from a different perspective, the overall sense of loneliness is a powerful and destructive emotion that links the two stories, making the protagonists show not only vulnerability but also their human side.

The problem of loneliness as the force that both motivates one to act and at the same time destroys ones personality is analyzed masterfully in Hamlet. Specifically, the theme of loneliness shines in Act 3, Scene 1. Although the issue of loneliness is brilliantly never mentioned, its essence remains pervasive throughout this scene, particularly, when the titular character bursts into his famous monologue. Hamlets turmoil and fear partially come from his isolation and his inability to share his feelings and pain even with his friends. Specifically, the following lien screams of the panic that loneliness casts on Hamlet:

The insolence of office and the spurns
That patient merit of the unworthy takes,
When he himself might his quietus make
With a bare bodkin. (Shakespeare)

The idea of having to make an action that will inevitably lead to even greater pain and, most likely, destruction, without the support of any friend shines through the specified lines. The isolation and anguish experienced by the lead character are so traumatic that it is compared with the act of actual self-harm. The described perception of loneliness is slightly different from the one portrayed in Odysseus, yet the latter features the same excruciating effect of loneliness. In fact, the very setting of Odysseus, specifically, that one of a ship amidst the ocean, already creates a very isolated and even claustrophobic impression and causes a great distress of mind (Homer). Thus, the sentiment concerning the devastating effect of loneliness and isolation is expressed in Odysseus, even though with the help of slightly different tools and wording. Similarly to Hamlet, every element in Odysseuss setting creates an environment that cannot be escaped, namely, that one of a ship in the middle of the ocean.

Moreover, the destructive nature of loneliness is explored in even greater depth in Odysseus than in Hamlet, showing with even greater detail and in much harsher light what toll it can have on an individual. Specifically, by mentioning that Odysseus mother died while waiting for her son and being torn by the feeling of loneliness and anguish, the poem conveys its point with great clarity. Whereas in Hamlet, the effects that loneliness has on its character are more subtle, serving only as a ploy for him to challenge death, in Odysseus, the experience of loneliness literally takes a human life.

Additionally, as the passages under analysis indicate, the context in which the characters experience loneliness is quite different. Whereas in Odyssey, the described emotion occurs as a result of being physically estranged from the lead characters family, Hamlet features the scenario in which emotional coldness leads to loneliness and, ultimately, isolation. The lack of emotional support is also clear in the identified scene in Hamlet, when the lead character manages to find solace only in complete solitude, which leads to his famous soliloquy and his need to isolate himself from the rest of the untrustworthy family and friends even further: Let the doors be shut upon him (Shakespeare). The described effect creates a unique paradox, in which Hamlet requires physical solitude in order to embrace his loneliness and make the decision that will ultimately seal not only his fate but also the fate of the rest of the characters.

The observed effect is quite similar to the one found in Odyssey, which shows a character arc in the course of which Odysseus needs to subject himself to loneliness in order to recognize the importance of the bond that he has with his family. His loneliness reaches its peak and borders heartbreak in the scene depicting Odysseus descending into the Kingdom of the Dead and seeing the shadow of his mother, among others, in it. The pain and anguish are expressed clearly in Odysseus lament: I had left her/alive when I set out for Troy and was moved to tears when I saw her (Homer). Therefore, in Odyssey, the lead character must reach the pinnacle of loneliness in order to recognize the need to make a change. The described character progression is quite similar to that one of Hamlet, although the outcomes are much more positive in the case of Odysseus.

Despite the fact that the problem of loneliness is seen in a different light in Hamlet and Odysseus, both works of literature introduce it as a central theme of their narrative, centering most of the problems faced by the lead characters in each narrative around it. As a result, the phenomenon of loneliness is examined through different lenses, yet the inability to cope with it and overcome its stifling effects remains the main factor driving the development of the lead characters and the progression of the story. Thus, the theme of loneliness becomes a universal concept that makes the leading characters in both works vulnerable, fallible, and, ultimately, human.

Works Cited

Homer. Odyssey. Gutenberg.org, 2020. Web.

Shakespeare, William. Hamlet. Shakespeare.MIT.edu, 2020. Web.

Introduction

Gertrude is the mother of the protagonist of the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare. She is the widow of King Hamlet of Denmark, the protagonists father, and the new wife of Claudius, the new king, brother, and murderer of the protagonists father. Her role in the work is significant and has much to tell the reader. Despite her intelligence, at first glance, she is weak, willless, unable, and unwilling to go against the will of her new husband. In a modern interpretation, the shortcomings of negative attitudes toward women are even more evident.

Gertrudes motives can be interpreted in two ways. The first and most apparent is fear for her position and a desire to remain in power. Gertrude demonstrated neither marital fidelity nor sufficient maternal love. It was only before her death that she realized or demonstrated the previously understood truth that her son was trying to convey. It was only then that her attitude toward Hamlet warmed, although it was too late.

Discussion

However, the second interpretation of Gertrudes motives is less evident to the modern reader but more likely. Neighboring Norway, after the death of the Danish king, may have demanded revenge after a previous defeat. A country cannot exist without a ruler, and of Claudius role in her husbands death, she did not know or guess and did not demonstrate. By marrying a month later to the new king, she correspondingly retained Hamlets hereditary role, for otherwise, Claudius might have had other heirs (Merrey 19). There are no lines in the work in which the queen voices her feelings for Claudius, which emphasizes the importance of this motif as the central motif.

Gertrude is majestic and attractive despite her age. Her mind is worthy of respect, and she is well-versed in the intricacies of running a kingdom. It is another reason to ponder her information and actions, which from this angle becomes more like a desire to save her family and country. Despite her political skills, she is far from the people and lacks respect for ordinary citizens. It can be seen due to her background and the peculiarities of the aristocratic mindset of the time.

She agrees with Polonius about the idea of Hamlets madness, by which she demonstrates the lack of whole motherly love. The protagonists rebukes of her mother are justified and fair enough. Only near the end does her attitude toward her son change, but ironically she becomes a victim of her new husband (Merrey 21). Despite the accidental poisoning of the drink intended for her son, the author emphasizes a kind of punishment to which Gertrude is subjected for some of her actions.

The significance of the character of Gertrude in the play is the unification of the various characters. Most of the characters are connected and interact in different ways. However, it is Gertrude, as one of the main characters, who is both a relatively negative character in some respects and a one-time savior of the main character. She is in the play to demonstrate to the reader how challenging a womans role in medieval society was. She is likewise a symbol of how contradictory qualities could be combined and evoke rejection and empathy simultaneously.

With her outward weakness, Gertrude can be understood as a symbol of inner firmness and making difficult decisions. Assuming that she guessed the reason for her husbands death and sacrificed her reputation for other, higher goals, she is worthy of respect. People often wear masks, which is especially true of the aristocratic families and intrigues of the times. The lack of willfulness attributed by the author to Gertrude contrasts with some of her actions, which makes one wonder about the depth of the character (Shakespeare). Rue, given by Hamlet to her mother, symbolizes regret and forgiveness or apology, which emphasizes her ambiguous role.

In many of Shakespeares works, the author allows the reader or spectator of the play to form their own opinions about the characters. To do this, he provides various descriptions, reactions, and opinions of other characters. Gertrude, Queen of Denmark and the mother of the plays main character would be a great example of this. She is shown, for the most part, on the negative side, but her actions and the evolution of her behavior allow the reader to develop a positive attitude toward the end of the piece. Because of this, it is difficult not to revisit her earlier actions from a new perspective and perhaps change ones mind. Included in the ability to label the character in this way are the greatness of Shakespeare and the reason for his popularity to this day.

Conclusion

Like much in work, some life lessons can be drawn from Gertrudes fate. Moreover, even though the terms are unlikely to be relevant today, it is easy to draw a parallel. A mothers love, care, and understanding are what the works protagonist lacked and what Gertrude could not share sufficiently. Similarly, trust and empathy for relatives are one of the main conclusions that can be drawn. Furthermore, the most crucial point about the character is that one should not be hasty in ones judgments about others without learning as much detail as possible.

Works Cited

Merrey, Jo. All That Lives Must Die: Gertrude, Ophelia, and the Idea of a Poisoned Royal Body Politic. Shakespeare Bulletin, vol. 39, no. 1, 2021, pp. 1938.

Shakespeare, William. Hamlet: A Tragedy by William Shakespeare. Lulu Publishing, 2020.

Introduction

William Shakespeare is one of the most significant figures of the United Kingdom and the whole world. His contribution to the development of culture and literary and theatrical art is priceless, and the fact that this ingenious writer lived and created literary works is a gift for all humankind. One of the most favorite and well-known plays created by the writer is The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, which was published in 1603. Several Hamlet monologues are rather famous among readers, students, and literature researchers. A passage from the second scene of the second act reveals essential facts about Hamlets character and has impressive diction, syntax, and imagery.

Main text

This passage includes the monologue of Hamlet that he delivers to his friends, who are secretly sent by the King to find out what is wrong with the prince. Even though Hamlet knows about his uncles purpose and does not want to tell Rosencrantz and Guildenstern about his real issue, he still tells most of the truth and expresses his worries and emotions (Shakespeare 65). Though his message is not entirely clear for them, it is possible to analyze the passage and understand some hidden facts.

If to pay particular attention to the diction, syntax, and imagery of this passage, it is rather easy to get some information about Hamlets character. He is stressed, worried, angry, and confused; finding out about the real reason for his fathers death weighs him and makes him forget about all the earthly joys and beauties (Shakespeare 65). However, when he speaks of the Earth and Nature surrounding him, he uses a number of the most wonderful imageries. For example, he says: this most excellent canopy, the air, look you, this brave overhanging firmament, this majestical roof fretted with golden fire (Shakespeare 65). It is evident that he is lost in his feelings, but his love for Nature is still alive and stronger than his anger and revenge (Shakespeare 65). Moreover, Hamlet sounds desperate not only because he tries to avenge his father but also because he misses the feeling of enjoying nature and its gifts.

As for the syntax of the passage, it changes according to Hamlets mood. First, there is a rather long sentence with several connected but still various ideas (Shakespeare 65). It seems like Hamlet is not sure whether he should say this and is afraid of finishing the sentence. Then, he becomes more excited and emotional, and his phrases take on a more enthusiastic tone and become fragmentary: how noble in reason! how infinite in faculty! (Shakespeare 65). For readers, it is not challenging to imagine Hamlet being excited and telling these words rather loud because he cannot hold his emotions. As for the diction, Hamlet chooses both simple and complex words and phrases, which proves that he considers talking as a form of art and, at the same time, can express his thoughts in simple constructions.

Conclusion

This passage provides significant information about Hamlets character. The readers make sure that he is rather romantic  he loves and admires Nature and its wonders and regrets that he cannot enjoy its beauties anymore (Shakespeare 65). Moreover, Hamlet appears to be a rather philosophical person who admits the greatness of humans and the fact that they are the beauty of the world and the paragon of animals (Shakespeare 65). It is hard to disagree that Hamlet has a deep understanding of the world, Nature, God, and humans. He knows how to clearly express his thoughts, admire usual and extraordinary phenomena, and come to interesting conclusions.

Work Cited

Shakespeare, William. Hamlet. General Press, 2018.