Is Prince Hamlet Mad
In Shakespeare's "Hamlet", the main character, Hamlet offers a puzzling and ambiguous persona. Throughout the play, Hamlet often contradicts himself. He seems to balance the virtues of to say playing a role, with being true to himself. Further proof of these conflicting personas are demonstrated by his actions and inactions. The ambiguity noted here, lies in two conflicting mannerisms displayed by the young Hamlet: One that is perfectly calm and rational; and another which displays a crud madness. These conflicting behaviors are related within Hamlet's internal struggle-to kill Claudius for revenge of his fathers' murder; or act responsibly, and await further proof of Claudius' guilt. Throughout the play, Hamlet teeters on the brink of insanity induced by his actions, or inactions.Hamlet's sanity is clarified, in the first act, by statements and feelings expressed within his dialogue. When asked about his depressed appearance and demeanor by Gertrude, Hamlet replies, "Seems, madam? Nay, it is. I know not "seems" (Act 1, Scene 2, line 79). This relates the idea that Hamlet is 'what he appears to be'. Later, he clearly makes a statement about his mental health when he commits himself to avenge his father's murder. This quote a
Again, Hamlet associates these actions with that of a role, in this instance, the role of Nero, This proof drives Hamlet to more words, this time referring to killing, It is as if Hamlet is saying 'it's only a play, it is not real'. Hamlet does mention something to this effect with his previous lines, Hamlet then admits he is merely feigning insanity with, Again later, Hamlet talks himself out of character and does not kill Claudius. He 'puts it off' until later days and states, "Observe mine uncle. If his occulted guilt Do not itself unkernnel on one speech, It is a damned ghost we have seen" (Act 3, Scene 2, line 72). "O shame, where is thy blush?" (Act 3, Scene 4, line 85). Hamlet is awaiting Claudius to fit the part of the villain. His action is virtually paralyzed whenever something or someone does not fit the part. Hamlet needs his revenge to be dramatic, so that he can finally get into his role and play it out. After Hamlet backs out of killing Claudius, he says to his mother,
Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 2312
Approximate Pages = 9 (250 words per page double spaced)
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