Hamlet - Entrapment

A detailed Summary of Hamlet - Entrapment

The theme of entrapment can be seen throughout Shakespeare's Hamlet. This

theme is used to show how human beings exist in a world where to live is to act,

and to act is ultimately to be caught in a sequence of events beyond individual

control. This existential dilemma of the play can be seen operating through the

language used by the characters in the physical and psychological entrapments

The language of the play shows how the characters set physical

entrapments for each other that eventually cause them to lose control of the

lives. Polonius' plan to trap Ophelia can be seen through his use of diction.

Through this attempt, Shakespeare shows how humans tend to trap others in a

web so that they cannot be free to do as they please. Polonius' use of words

such as "tether" and "catch" are employed to show that he is trying to keep his

daughter away from Hamlet and for himself. To keep her trapped would be to

keep a daughter by not giving her control of her life. However, Polonius later

counters his trap set for Ophelia by trying to trap Hamlet. After being informed

of Hamlet's "tenders of affections" towards Ophelia, Polonius takes action to

ensnare Hamlet for his own gain. Polonius

an appealing yet unattainable idea. This self-entrapment that Hamlet faces is

other in events above control is Hamlet's play titled "The Mousetrap." This title

weakened will to avenge his father, and later on his death, are caused by the

each other. The title "The Mousetrap" signifies a mouse being trapped by a bait.

Approximate Word count = 865
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: English

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