The play "Hamlet", by William Shakespeare, contains complex scenes that interlock; using a mastery of words and hidden meanings behind phrases. Since each scene is a piece that connects to another; it is vital that each scene has certain actions and reactions to bring out other meanings in the play. Thus making character, theme, and plot development critical to each scene. Such development can be tracked through individual scenes and is evident in Act 3, scene 4 as any other.

In this scene character development expands immensely. Hamlet, in a fit of rage, demonstrates that he does possess the ability to act by killing Polonis.

Polonis: "What, ho! Help, help; help!"

Hamlet: "how now! Arat? Dead, for a ducat, dead!"

Polonis: "O, I am slain"(Act 3, Scene4, line 23-25).

This murder is what Hamlet expected to be the demise of Claudius, but is shocked to discover Polonis behind the curtain. Hamlet then turns his aggressions back toward Gertrude; consequently we learn why Hamlet is so upset with his mother as he says: "Such an act. That blurs the grace and blush of modesty; calls virtue hypotite; takes off the rose From the fair forehead of innocent love, And sets blister; makes marriage vows As false as dicers'oths" (Act 3 scene 4, line 40-45). Hamlet finally reveals his true feelings about the hasty marriage between his uncle and mother. Hamlet still does not understand the marriage; he compares the two kings and asks why. Hamlet then accuses Gertrude of weakness and lust. Shortly after the Ghost arrives providing an insight of the Kings spirit by confronting Hamlets actions towards his mother: " Do not forget: this visitation is but to whet thy almost blunted purpose...O step between her and her fighting soul! Conceit in weakest bodies strongest works. Speak to her Hamlet" (Act 3 scene 4 line 111-116). The Ghost's compassion for Gertrude proves he is a good spirit; as he warns Hamlet not to hurt her. The Ghost urges Hamlet to convince Gertrude to confess her sins and give up her actions of lust and betrayal.

Act 3, scene 4 also gives great insight for Gertrude's character. We see strength in her as she begins to scold Hamlet for offendi

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