Scene 1
This scene starts off with two grave digger (clowns) who are set there to bring a sense of comic relief after such a serious moment. The conversation does have serious elements though... for instance they're debating whether Ophelia truly deserves a christian burial when she has sinned, although it has been approved by the priest they share their views on this."Is she to be buried in a christian burial when she wilfully seeks her own salvation?". They then share banter to relax the tone of the play.
Hamlet then appears in the graveyard from pure coincidence; he doesn't know Ophelia is dead and being buried.He then has a small conversation with the clowns ( they don't know who he is) and he says "There's another.Why may not that be the skull of a lawyer?" meaning once dead we are all equal, all the same no matter what rank in society we're from.Hamlet constantly reflects on death and the point of life.
Grave digger then makes reference to the disease in Denmark and relates it to the dead.Even in death the bodies are riddled with disease (recently the bodies are rotting quickly,much quicker than usual)hamlet again reflects on death and how short life is.People are no different in death and people are used no matter how great "Alexander died, Alexander was buried, Alexander returneth to dust; dust is earth, of earth we make loam and why of loam whereto he was converted might they not stop a beer barrel?" which means even Alexander the great may be reused, it doesn't matter how powerful you are.
Procession then appears with Ophelia's corpse,Hamlet realises whose body they are about to bury.Tragedy for Ophelia in death as the queen says there would have been no objection of hers and hamlets marriage- she was warned off and heartbroken because of this.
Leartes and hamlet then fight in her grave (Leartes had jumped in to hold her one last time and Hamlet followed so he could fight him).After they are pulled apart Hamlet declares he loved her more than Leartes loved her (more than any amount of brothers could have) Both are grief stricken, Leartes has lost his last family member and Hamlet has lost the love of his life.Once Hamlet leaves the grave the king tells Claudius to be patient; they will carry out their plan soon.He's worried Leartes will lose it like Ophelia had.
Hamlet has recently acted sane but once he finds out about Ophelia's death he is so grief stricken he shows mad love, declares love and fights brother. It's a genuine moment of regret. He shows his raw emotions of love for her and now it's too late to do anything about it (intense moment).We finally see his realisation on what he has done, his guilt, anguish and remorse. (rite-of-passage from prince to king... reaches maturity level needed)
Scene 2
Hamlet now shows true remorse, he seems weak with grief, no signs of madness.He regrets his previous actions and can see what wrong he caused others, he then describes to Horatio how he changed the message that Claudius wrote for England and made it so that Rosencratz and Guildenstern will be sent to death on arrival .In a way this is his confession, he must know that something is to happen so he's confessing his sins before it's too late.He's seen how his pent up revenge has caused and destroyed so much.
Osrick then enters and says "Your lordship is right, welcome back to Denmark" (dramatic irony). Osrick serves as a comic character aswell as a narrative device; he helps explain what will happen next... the duel.There is a bet placed on Leartes to win and Hamlet is suspicious of the duel and its importance. Hamlet is aware the duel could be the deciding factor of his future (everyone is there to witness it).
Hamlet and Leartes have words before the fight.Hamlet apologises and says he has done great wrong and offers his sorrow.He's trying to repent for his sins and make amends and Leartes accepts the apology but still wants revenge. Both show bravery and signs of nobility here. Hamlet does because he accepts the duel without any question (bravery) unlike his previous moments in the play which can be interpreted as if he is a coward.Leartes does because he accepts Hamlets apology even though he blames Hamlet for the death of his family.This shows that Leartes is a good man, although he still wants revenge he isn't petty or stubborn he is gracious respects others enough to forgive them even when they cause much hurt. (both showing maturity and especially with Hamlet since he has realised not to run, he accepts the consequences and takes the punishment).
They then fight and it's both on equal standing to they take a break (Leartes has the poisoned sword)..... hamlet is offered a drink (the drink that has poison in) but he turns it down. Instead the queen drinks from it (oncoming tragedy for Hamlet and Claudius also dramatic irony) . Hamlet is then wounded by the poisoned sword (tragedy for Gertrude,Horatio also the kingdom since they still like Hamlet and dramatic irony). In scuffling and confusion they both then swap swords and Hamlet wounds Leartes ( 3 are now poisoned, more Tragedy!!).
The queen then falls and Claudius attempts to cover it by saying " She swoons to see them bleed" meaning that she has fainted because she can't stand to see them fight but in the queens last breath she says it was the drink "No, no, the drink, the drink! O my dear Hamlet! the drink, the drink, i am poisoned.".Hamlet then shouts treachery and seeks who caused the villainous act; Leartes then admits that the culprit was Claudius and that there is no cure, the sword and drink are poisoned so Hamlet wounds Claudius and forces him to drink the rest of the poisoned drink. ( dramatic irony as Claudius has died the way he killed Hamlets dad, his mother and effectively Leartes and Hamlet....you could say it was his own doings that killed him) Now major tragedy for all, they have no king or queen, Hamlet has lost all his family like Leartes and Denmark shall now have no ruler since all royalty or nobles are poisoned.It also means that they all achieved revenge even if it results in the death of each other.
In Leartes final words he ask Hamlet to forgive him and that he fully forgives Hamlet "He is justly served ( talking about the death of Claudius) It is poisoned tempered by himself. Exchange forgiveness with me noble Hamlet. Mine and my father's death come not upon thee nor thine on me!" It's not Hamlets fault for his death and his father's....full forgiveness.
Fortinbras then arrives in Elsinore with his army (told by a messenger), at this point Horatio says to Hamlet that he wants to die too, he doesn't want to live when everyone else has dies but Hamlet basically tells him it will be alright and not to make a foolish move (tragedy for Horatio, he has lost his best friend and would rather join him in death than lose him).... Hamlet also tells Horatio to leave Denmark to Fortinbras because he knows it will be in capable hands that way. Hamlet then dies.
Two things then simultaneously happen then... Fortinbras enters the hall and See's what has happened; then asking Horatio so he can find out. Also an ambassador arrives and reports that Rosencratz and Guildenstern are dead (pretty much everyone is dead) Horatio then fills in Fortinbras and the tragic event that have occurred in the past few months and that the throne has been left to him ( Fortinbras has succeeded in his mission without having to do anything). Fortinbras then finishes the play by saying that he believes that Hamlet would have made a most royal king and that he deserves a true burial so people collect the bodies and give Hamlet a royal send off.
Even though everyone has died it may now be better for Denmark since this is a fresh start and it may now redeem its former state before the death of Hamlet Sr. Hamlet did infact want Denmark to return to its former self so even though he has given his life to achieve this he has done good.
Thursday 21 October 2010
Monday 18 October 2010
Fortinbras's assessment of Hamlet in Act 5
After Horatio summarises what unearthly happenings occurred in Denmark Fortinbras assesses the scene and concludes that Hamlet would have made an excellent king if he was given a chance, he has proven himself worthy when dealing with all of the past tragedies and should be honoured and remembered. In a way he was a king and deserves a true send off and burial.
I agree with what Fortinbras has decided because he has shown nobility in some of his actions specifically in the end. I think that this whole play was pretty much a rite-of-passage for him from the transition from being a prince to a king.He did make a few stupid decisions such as pretending to be mad, this idiotic idea has definitely cost him a lot and caused major tragic moments for others that could have definitely been avoided but the fact that when he lost someone incredibly dear to him he realised his idiotic behaviour and tried to repent for his actions.
He did however behave maturely when confronted with how he would take revenge, he contemplated on his options and waited instead of deciding with his anger and killing Claudius on an impulse. I like the fact the Hamlet is a cunning character who does think before he acts unlike many would have done the opposite.
Once he realised his wrong doings i believe that he then fulfilled a lost part of himself;a part of him that was missing before-hand, this is the point where Fortinbras's assessment really applies but even so he had the makings of a great ruler from the start.
I agree with what Fortinbras has decided because he has shown nobility in some of his actions specifically in the end. I think that this whole play was pretty much a rite-of-passage for him from the transition from being a prince to a king.He did make a few stupid decisions such as pretending to be mad, this idiotic idea has definitely cost him a lot and caused major tragic moments for others that could have definitely been avoided but the fact that when he lost someone incredibly dear to him he realised his idiotic behaviour and tried to repent for his actions.
He did however behave maturely when confronted with how he would take revenge, he contemplated on his options and waited instead of deciding with his anger and killing Claudius on an impulse. I like the fact the Hamlet is a cunning character who does think before he acts unlike many would have done the opposite.
Once he realised his wrong doings i believe that he then fulfilled a lost part of himself;a part of him that was missing before-hand, this is the point where Fortinbras's assessment really applies but even so he had the makings of a great ruler from the start.
Monday 11 October 2010
Tragedy in Hamlet: Act 3 Scene 4 and Act 4
Act 3 Scene 4
Hamlet talks with mother after requested to but is suspicious of eavesdropping since it has happened countless times recently so he goes to hurt mother as a ploy to catch the spy (believing its Claudius when in fact it's Polonius). The spy send a cry for help so Hamlet kills him.he may possibly belive it's Claudius since who else would be in her chamber unless she is committing adultery; he stabs who he belives is Claudius because this would finally mean he has taken revenge.... he couldnt complete this action earlier since Claudius was praying but spying would be a sin so it would send Claudius to hell which is what Hamlet initially wants. This is a new tragic element to the play as Polonius is Leartes and Ophelias father so the news of his murder will hurt badly especially for ophelia since Hamlet is effectively her boyfriend.... this will cause a conflicting internal element; will she continue to loyally love Hamlet? this news will definately cause a greater heartbreak.This can also be seen as a tragic moment for Ophelia and in some elements the denmark since Polonius was such a respected figure within the public so this will be a great loss for them, and for Gertrude its a tragic moment since it's her beloved son that has slain Polonius and she knows he has committed an awful crime that may result in the loss of his life;she cannot lose her son so soon after the death of her husband. Even when Hamlet realises that he has in fact killed Polonius he shows no inclination of remorse-he doesnt care that he has killed an important figure in Denmark who is also his girlfriends father. (this has caused major future problems for Hamlet, he's now a cold blooded killer and there is no justifications for his actions).
Hamlet then continues to let loose on his mother,finally venting all his disgust towards her, he has a go at her for marrying Claudius and basically fogetting his dear father (betrayed him). He uses hell as imagery for what she has done ( her virtue has melted like wax) her incestous passion will cause her to go to hell.Hamlet continues to use very rich imagery to display his hurt and anger by saying "in the rank sweat of an enseamed bed,stewed in corruption,honeyed andmaking love over the nasty sty" (sty being Claudius) and although he has badly upset Gertrude she still acts tender towards him by saying "sweet Hamlet".
The appearence of Hamlets madness then thickens when the ghost of his Father then appears but only to Hamlet, the queen believes he has gone mad since she cant see the ghost;she belives the old tragedy has altered him so badly that he has resorted to halucinations of his dad as a way of comfort.
Hamlet then concludes to his mother not to do anything with Claudius when they are alone in their chamber snd to remind Claudius he is plotting against him (he will take revenge!).he says " I essentially am not in madness,but mad in craft"-he's not really mad in the mind but he demonstrates lunacy through behaviour on purpose. he also reminds her that he is being sent to England so it doesnt matter ; they will be free of his lunacy soon.The scene then ends with Hamlet dragging Polonius's body from her chamber (emphasizing his mad behaviour).This scene is a major development for the play.... Hamlet find out the ghost in fact speaks the truth, he finally vents to his mother and causes major tragedy for many other characters.
Act 4
Scene 1
This new act starts with Gertrude recapping the previous incidents with Claudius who then tells Rosencratz and Guildenstein to find Hamlet and take Polonius's body to the chapel (Gertrude had told Claudius Hamlet has taken the body to cut it up " to draw apart the body he hath killed") If this case is true Hamlet has acted in a way that he may see appropriate however if true it means that Polonius cannot be given the respected burial where his family etc can say goodbye it also means the body wont be in the natural state which may greatly upset his children intensifying the recent loss and tragedy they have been subject to. However even though Hamlet has acted extremely bad gertrude still attempts to defend her son by saying it's not his fault, the madness has done this " O'er whom his very madness", she is trying to protect her son because she knows he must pay the consequences for his crimes. She is in a true dilemma,Hamlet needs to be punished by Claudius since it's his duty as the king but who will she be loyal to: Claudius the man she has sworn to be loyal to or her own son? This is a major problem that she will struggle with which will most likely cause her anger and great upset in the future development.
Scene 2
Hamlet refuses to tell Rosencratz and Guildenstein where Polonius is, he will only tell the king so he requests to be taken to him. He also plays on his lunacy to these characters to either play the part he is trying to deliver or because he has actually turned mad. There is no real tragedy within this scene as it's extremely short so no chance of a proper development.
Scene 3
When Hamlet is taken to Claudius he admits that he has buried Polonius's body and says he is now being eaten by worms;which is the circle of life " your worm is your only emperor for diet. we fat all creatures else to fat us,and we fat ourselves for maggots". uses very strong imagery to emphasize his madness and not just in the previously mentioned case,Hamlet carries on to say "a man may fish with the worm that hath eat of king,and eat of the fish that hath fed of the worm" meaning that essentially everyone eats each other.By saying this Hamlet isn't being very cautious or sensitive to others and may offend or upset people which worsens the effects of the tragedy.
Hamlet is then told that the ship is ready to send him to England by Claudius who then appoints attendants to escort him away. Claudius then has another soliloquy where he admits a sort of triumph over Hamlet since he has sent a letter to England telling them to execute Hamlet once he arrives.Claudius wont be happy until he has gotten revenge and Hamlet is dead.He says Hamlet is a disease to Denmark. The fact that Claudius has done this though will cause major upset and tragedy for his wife since that is her son.... he would have murdered both her husband and son who are also his blood relations.
Scene 4
Hamlet has another soliloquy; he just spoke to Fortinbras and the captain.Fortinbras plans revenge over his uncles death,army is assembled and waiting; they want land (the land is worthless but they want the name it comes with).It makes Hamlet realize that he needs to take action now, he has upset his mother and with his father stuck in purgatory he feels he has failed.a major problem though is that he is leaving;its a big debate in his head with many tormenting thoughts.The old tragedy is still lingering in his mind constantly... he still cannot progress and move forward with his life,it may even destroy him.
Scene 5
Ophelia has recently gone insane because of the tragic death of her father,she cries over trivial things, is unstable and talks utter nonsense.In this scene she approaches Claudius and Gertrude singing about her and Hamlets treatment and also uses vulgar language. The tragedy has effected her so much she has completely lost herself;behaving in inappropriate ways but its not just the tragic loss of her father... its also because it was at Hamlets doing; this news would have been devastating and traumatic to hear that both factors must have simply tipped her over the edge.Claudius then tells Horatio to keep an eye on her after witnessing her mad behaviours.He pities her since she can't deal with problems and Leartes is still away;she's all alone and cant cope.
However Leartes suddenly returns to Denmark after hearing the news of the loss of his father and the country embraces him; They want him to be king.Claudius has no support by his people which must emphasize how shit of a king he makes. Leartes breaks into the castle with his followers and orders to see the king alone; he is extremely angry.Claudius tells him that his father is dead and at that point the queen immediately jumps in and informs Leartes it's not at Claudius's hand.Leartes declares he will take revenge which allows Claudius to jump at this opportunity thats been presented and shows his support; he manipulates Leartes and clears his name (tells him it was Hamlet).
Ophelia then appears and Leartes witnesses her true madness first hand (more tragedy for Leartes,basically lost his sister as well) which leaves him in utter shock; he doesn't know how to deal with this factor on top of the recent tragic death of his father and we know this because he says " do you see this? O God!" You can see the major contrast between both siblings on how they deal with tragic life changing news. Ophelia completely breaks down into a state of lunacy whereas Leartes is a man who takes action and vows revenge even if it is his sisters love. This shows how although they are related Ophelia is in a much weaker state and cannot cope whereas Leartes is a much stronger willed being who has great characteristics to be a good leader and warrior.
This now leaves the story with many schemes of revenge; the tragedy has led characters into such a rage they all vow revenge to solve their vendettas against each other (which was all started by Hamlet Sr..) Leartes, Fortinbras, Claudius and Hamlet but how will the story develop? who will actually succeed in finishing what they started and defeating their foe (which in a way will mean they also defeat the tragedy).
Scene 6
Hamlet writes a letter to horatio to inform him of events that have unravelled , Hamlet now sounds extremely sane in comparison to his recent mad behaviour.Hamlet shows cowardice throughout the play whereas from the letter he is portrayed as a man of action (he was captured by pirates and managed to persuade them to let him free) The letter has a calm mannerism about it as if the events didnt phase him.This behaviour displayed isnt like Hamlets previous portrayal so it makes me question if these events are actually real; Hamlet does love dramatic plays so maybe he has exageratted actual events i.e he saw a fishing boat and jumped onto it.there is no change to any previous tagedies and no real tragedies emerge in this scene.
Scene 7
Leartes is aggrivated, tragic events of the death of his father and Ophelias lunacy have occured, he blames Hamlet for both of these tragedies and Hamlet was pretty much let off (sent to England) so he's having a go at Claudius.Claudius says that he couldn't do anything else because in the publics eyes Hamlet can do no wrong and he also tells Leartes that he greatly misses Polonius as a way to calm him down.
A messenger then arrives (dramatic irony on the characters which brings tragedy to leartes)After learning Hamlet has escaped he conjures a plan to kill Hamlet which enables him to take revenge (the only way the male characters seem to deal with tragedy)Claudius has manipulated Leartes and blamed all problems on Hamlet i.e the muders and for the state of Denmark, he says that Hamlet did it because he is Jealous of Leartes etc... Claudius is praising Leartes by saying he's a good swordsman (sucking up to him).They create a plan to kill him in a non-ovbious way.Decide to have a duel between Leartes and Hamlet (Hamlet is cowardly whereas Leartes takes the warrior route) Leartes will then poison the end of Hamlets sword to secretly kill him-dramatic irony (Claudius used poison to kill Hamlets dad) However this plan shows that Leartes is a cheat, could this mean his an untrustworthy and weak person? For a back up plan they will also poison a drink that they will then hand to Hamlet.
Gertrude then enters the scene announcing Ophelia has drowned. This is a phenomenal tragedy for Leartes and Hamlet, both loved her unconditionally and have also dealt with major tragedies in their lives (Both losing their dads). Her death is described in a beautiful way, not a traumatic death ( naturalistic imagery).Leartes then says "to much water;hast thou, poor Ophelia and therefore i forbid my tears" which basically means he wont shed a tear because too much water has been used and wasted (Ophelia drowned and used to cry all the time).Leartes has lost everyone, he has no others to care or grieve over.
Everyone was pent on revenge,now it's all coming back on them;theyre paying for their wrong doings.
Most of Ophelias parts are just background parts, she never has any important line and all of the happenings arent included in the play wer'e just told about them.Although this is the case the events have major upheavals...who is to blame for her death? could blame Claudius since he started the chain of tragic events or you could blame Hamlet since he drove her to heartbreak and so much misery eventually causing her lunacy.
Hamlet talks with mother after requested to but is suspicious of eavesdropping since it has happened countless times recently so he goes to hurt mother as a ploy to catch the spy (believing its Claudius when in fact it's Polonius). The spy send a cry for help so Hamlet kills him.he may possibly belive it's Claudius since who else would be in her chamber unless she is committing adultery; he stabs who he belives is Claudius because this would finally mean he has taken revenge.... he couldnt complete this action earlier since Claudius was praying but spying would be a sin so it would send Claudius to hell which is what Hamlet initially wants. This is a new tragic element to the play as Polonius is Leartes and Ophelias father so the news of his murder will hurt badly especially for ophelia since Hamlet is effectively her boyfriend.... this will cause a conflicting internal element; will she continue to loyally love Hamlet? this news will definately cause a greater heartbreak.This can also be seen as a tragic moment for Ophelia and in some elements the denmark since Polonius was such a respected figure within the public so this will be a great loss for them, and for Gertrude its a tragic moment since it's her beloved son that has slain Polonius and she knows he has committed an awful crime that may result in the loss of his life;she cannot lose her son so soon after the death of her husband. Even when Hamlet realises that he has in fact killed Polonius he shows no inclination of remorse-he doesnt care that he has killed an important figure in Denmark who is also his girlfriends father. (this has caused major future problems for Hamlet, he's now a cold blooded killer and there is no justifications for his actions).
Hamlet then continues to let loose on his mother,finally venting all his disgust towards her, he has a go at her for marrying Claudius and basically fogetting his dear father (betrayed him). He uses hell as imagery for what she has done ( her virtue has melted like wax) her incestous passion will cause her to go to hell.Hamlet continues to use very rich imagery to display his hurt and anger by saying "in the rank sweat of an enseamed bed,stewed in corruption,honeyed andmaking love over the nasty sty" (sty being Claudius) and although he has badly upset Gertrude she still acts tender towards him by saying "sweet Hamlet".
The appearence of Hamlets madness then thickens when the ghost of his Father then appears but only to Hamlet, the queen believes he has gone mad since she cant see the ghost;she belives the old tragedy has altered him so badly that he has resorted to halucinations of his dad as a way of comfort.
Hamlet then concludes to his mother not to do anything with Claudius when they are alone in their chamber snd to remind Claudius he is plotting against him (he will take revenge!).he says " I essentially am not in madness,but mad in craft"-he's not really mad in the mind but he demonstrates lunacy through behaviour on purpose. he also reminds her that he is being sent to England so it doesnt matter ; they will be free of his lunacy soon.The scene then ends with Hamlet dragging Polonius's body from her chamber (emphasizing his mad behaviour).This scene is a major development for the play.... Hamlet find out the ghost in fact speaks the truth, he finally vents to his mother and causes major tragedy for many other characters.
Act 4
Scene 1
This new act starts with Gertrude recapping the previous incidents with Claudius who then tells Rosencratz and Guildenstein to find Hamlet and take Polonius's body to the chapel (Gertrude had told Claudius Hamlet has taken the body to cut it up " to draw apart the body he hath killed") If this case is true Hamlet has acted in a way that he may see appropriate however if true it means that Polonius cannot be given the respected burial where his family etc can say goodbye it also means the body wont be in the natural state which may greatly upset his children intensifying the recent loss and tragedy they have been subject to. However even though Hamlet has acted extremely bad gertrude still attempts to defend her son by saying it's not his fault, the madness has done this " O'er whom his very madness", she is trying to protect her son because she knows he must pay the consequences for his crimes. She is in a true dilemma,Hamlet needs to be punished by Claudius since it's his duty as the king but who will she be loyal to: Claudius the man she has sworn to be loyal to or her own son? This is a major problem that she will struggle with which will most likely cause her anger and great upset in the future development.
Scene 2
Hamlet refuses to tell Rosencratz and Guildenstein where Polonius is, he will only tell the king so he requests to be taken to him. He also plays on his lunacy to these characters to either play the part he is trying to deliver or because he has actually turned mad. There is no real tragedy within this scene as it's extremely short so no chance of a proper development.
Scene 3
When Hamlet is taken to Claudius he admits that he has buried Polonius's body and says he is now being eaten by worms;which is the circle of life " your worm is your only emperor for diet. we fat all creatures else to fat us,and we fat ourselves for maggots". uses very strong imagery to emphasize his madness and not just in the previously mentioned case,Hamlet carries on to say "a man may fish with the worm that hath eat of king,and eat of the fish that hath fed of the worm" meaning that essentially everyone eats each other.By saying this Hamlet isn't being very cautious or sensitive to others and may offend or upset people which worsens the effects of the tragedy.
Hamlet is then told that the ship is ready to send him to England by Claudius who then appoints attendants to escort him away. Claudius then has another soliloquy where he admits a sort of triumph over Hamlet since he has sent a letter to England telling them to execute Hamlet once he arrives.Claudius wont be happy until he has gotten revenge and Hamlet is dead.He says Hamlet is a disease to Denmark. The fact that Claudius has done this though will cause major upset and tragedy for his wife since that is her son.... he would have murdered both her husband and son who are also his blood relations.
Scene 4
Hamlet has another soliloquy; he just spoke to Fortinbras and the captain.Fortinbras plans revenge over his uncles death,army is assembled and waiting; they want land (the land is worthless but they want the name it comes with).It makes Hamlet realize that he needs to take action now, he has upset his mother and with his father stuck in purgatory he feels he has failed.a major problem though is that he is leaving;its a big debate in his head with many tormenting thoughts.The old tragedy is still lingering in his mind constantly... he still cannot progress and move forward with his life,it may even destroy him.
Scene 5
Ophelia has recently gone insane because of the tragic death of her father,she cries over trivial things, is unstable and talks utter nonsense.In this scene she approaches Claudius and Gertrude singing about her and Hamlets treatment and also uses vulgar language. The tragedy has effected her so much she has completely lost herself;behaving in inappropriate ways but its not just the tragic loss of her father... its also because it was at Hamlets doing; this news would have been devastating and traumatic to hear that both factors must have simply tipped her over the edge.Claudius then tells Horatio to keep an eye on her after witnessing her mad behaviours.He pities her since she can't deal with problems and Leartes is still away;she's all alone and cant cope.
However Leartes suddenly returns to Denmark after hearing the news of the loss of his father and the country embraces him; They want him to be king.Claudius has no support by his people which must emphasize how shit of a king he makes. Leartes breaks into the castle with his followers and orders to see the king alone; he is extremely angry.Claudius tells him that his father is dead and at that point the queen immediately jumps in and informs Leartes it's not at Claudius's hand.Leartes declares he will take revenge which allows Claudius to jump at this opportunity thats been presented and shows his support; he manipulates Leartes and clears his name (tells him it was Hamlet).
Ophelia then appears and Leartes witnesses her true madness first hand (more tragedy for Leartes,basically lost his sister as well) which leaves him in utter shock; he doesn't know how to deal with this factor on top of the recent tragic death of his father and we know this because he says " do you see this? O God!" You can see the major contrast between both siblings on how they deal with tragic life changing news. Ophelia completely breaks down into a state of lunacy whereas Leartes is a man who takes action and vows revenge even if it is his sisters love. This shows how although they are related Ophelia is in a much weaker state and cannot cope whereas Leartes is a much stronger willed being who has great characteristics to be a good leader and warrior.
This now leaves the story with many schemes of revenge; the tragedy has led characters into such a rage they all vow revenge to solve their vendettas against each other (which was all started by Hamlet Sr..) Leartes, Fortinbras, Claudius and Hamlet but how will the story develop? who will actually succeed in finishing what they started and defeating their foe (which in a way will mean they also defeat the tragedy).
Scene 6
Hamlet writes a letter to horatio to inform him of events that have unravelled , Hamlet now sounds extremely sane in comparison to his recent mad behaviour.Hamlet shows cowardice throughout the play whereas from the letter he is portrayed as a man of action (he was captured by pirates and managed to persuade them to let him free) The letter has a calm mannerism about it as if the events didnt phase him.This behaviour displayed isnt like Hamlets previous portrayal so it makes me question if these events are actually real; Hamlet does love dramatic plays so maybe he has exageratted actual events i.e he saw a fishing boat and jumped onto it.there is no change to any previous tagedies and no real tragedies emerge in this scene.
Scene 7
Leartes is aggrivated, tragic events of the death of his father and Ophelias lunacy have occured, he blames Hamlet for both of these tragedies and Hamlet was pretty much let off (sent to England) so he's having a go at Claudius.Claudius says that he couldn't do anything else because in the publics eyes Hamlet can do no wrong and he also tells Leartes that he greatly misses Polonius as a way to calm him down.
A messenger then arrives (dramatic irony on the characters which brings tragedy to leartes)After learning Hamlet has escaped he conjures a plan to kill Hamlet which enables him to take revenge (the only way the male characters seem to deal with tragedy)Claudius has manipulated Leartes and blamed all problems on Hamlet i.e the muders and for the state of Denmark, he says that Hamlet did it because he is Jealous of Leartes etc... Claudius is praising Leartes by saying he's a good swordsman (sucking up to him).They create a plan to kill him in a non-ovbious way.Decide to have a duel between Leartes and Hamlet (Hamlet is cowardly whereas Leartes takes the warrior route) Leartes will then poison the end of Hamlets sword to secretly kill him-dramatic irony (Claudius used poison to kill Hamlets dad) However this plan shows that Leartes is a cheat, could this mean his an untrustworthy and weak person? For a back up plan they will also poison a drink that they will then hand to Hamlet.
Gertrude then enters the scene announcing Ophelia has drowned. This is a phenomenal tragedy for Leartes and Hamlet, both loved her unconditionally and have also dealt with major tragedies in their lives (Both losing their dads). Her death is described in a beautiful way, not a traumatic death ( naturalistic imagery).Leartes then says "to much water;hast thou, poor Ophelia and therefore i forbid my tears" which basically means he wont shed a tear because too much water has been used and wasted (Ophelia drowned and used to cry all the time).Leartes has lost everyone, he has no others to care or grieve over.
Everyone was pent on revenge,now it's all coming back on them;theyre paying for their wrong doings.
Most of Ophelias parts are just background parts, she never has any important line and all of the happenings arent included in the play wer'e just told about them.Although this is the case the events have major upheavals...who is to blame for her death? could blame Claudius since he started the chain of tragic events or you could blame Hamlet since he drove her to heartbreak and so much misery eventually causing her lunacy.
Thursday 7 October 2010
Tragedy in Hamlet: Acts 2 & most of 3
Act 2
Tragedy is first established in this act with Ophelia; she believes her love has gone completely insane which worries and upsets her greatly. (he stood in her chamber with his trousers at his ankles). Although it is meant that Hamlet is faking lunacy noone really knows this factor so trully believe that he is mental.... however tragedy has efeected hamlet in such a way that in truth it can be argued his mad behaviour isnt actually false.He's still constantly lingering on this death;he cannot move past it so to what extent has he progressed... has he perhaps regessed?
Act 3
In Hamlets soliloquy he again questions life " To be or not to be, that is the question". He is dwelling too much on things & thoughts that may lead to a constant regret and guilt, however these thoughts are a philosphical perspective which should be expected from him since he is a philossphy student. he is pent up on taking revenge and is focusing on it so much that he is losing himself in a way, the tragedy is eating away at him and he feels a coward for thinking on it too much; he is not his father though, he isnt a warrior he is a thinker so is he being too hard on himself? is he strong enough to accomplish his task?
he then talks with Ophelia and causes more turmoil for her as he breaks her heart by insulting and degrading her by saying " i loved thee not" and " take thee to a nunnery". there are a few possible reasons behind this behaviousr though: 1. he loves her so much he wants to get her way from Denmark to protect her and keep her from oncoming harm ( either the revenge for his father or possibly from him because he know this tragedy is forming him into a new person and he feels as if he will hurt her grealy in the future) 2. he is suspicious of eavesdroppers so may be trying to fool them with lunacy ( but has the tragic news actually started to make him mad). Hamlet is still unable to move on and healthily process this loss like everyone else, he is bent on revenge. tragedy has become the basis of him now and he needs to kill Claudius to maybe move on.
Because of the one tragic event and the spreading of hurt has developed into a major dramtic plot. All life has changed for every character, previous allies like Guildenstein and Rosencratz have become untrustworthy and disloyal, Hamlet has lost friends and respect from everyone, Claudius is decietful and evil ( bad traits for a king), now no love or relationship with his mother, ruined his chances of a future happiness with Ophelia and there is no order over Denmark...... everything is falling to tatters which has caused major drama!
Tragedy is first established in this act with Ophelia; she believes her love has gone completely insane which worries and upsets her greatly. (he stood in her chamber with his trousers at his ankles). Although it is meant that Hamlet is faking lunacy noone really knows this factor so trully believe that he is mental.... however tragedy has efeected hamlet in such a way that in truth it can be argued his mad behaviour isnt actually false.He's still constantly lingering on this death;he cannot move past it so to what extent has he progressed... has he perhaps regessed?
Act 3
In Hamlets soliloquy he again questions life " To be or not to be, that is the question". He is dwelling too much on things & thoughts that may lead to a constant regret and guilt, however these thoughts are a philosphical perspective which should be expected from him since he is a philossphy student. he is pent up on taking revenge and is focusing on it so much that he is losing himself in a way, the tragedy is eating away at him and he feels a coward for thinking on it too much; he is not his father though, he isnt a warrior he is a thinker so is he being too hard on himself? is he strong enough to accomplish his task?
he then talks with Ophelia and causes more turmoil for her as he breaks her heart by insulting and degrading her by saying " i loved thee not" and " take thee to a nunnery". there are a few possible reasons behind this behaviousr though: 1. he loves her so much he wants to get her way from Denmark to protect her and keep her from oncoming harm ( either the revenge for his father or possibly from him because he know this tragedy is forming him into a new person and he feels as if he will hurt her grealy in the future) 2. he is suspicious of eavesdroppers so may be trying to fool them with lunacy ( but has the tragic news actually started to make him mad). Hamlet is still unable to move on and healthily process this loss like everyone else, he is bent on revenge. tragedy has become the basis of him now and he needs to kill Claudius to maybe move on.
Because of the one tragic event and the spreading of hurt has developed into a major dramtic plot. All life has changed for every character, previous allies like Guildenstein and Rosencratz have become untrustworthy and disloyal, Hamlet has lost friends and respect from everyone, Claudius is decietful and evil ( bad traits for a king), now no love or relationship with his mother, ruined his chances of a future happiness with Ophelia and there is no order over Denmark...... everything is falling to tatters which has caused major drama!
Tragedy in Hamlet: Act 1
Scene 1
It starts of with the mourning over the loss of the previous king: Hamlet senior. This Tragic loss is a widespread loss, the effects are felt and related to all over the country. Tragedy in this first scene is portrayed not only in the mood but also the setting and imagery placed throughout. there is the imagery of death portrayed through the night watchmen being near a graveyard and then later on by the dwelling omen of the appearing ghost of the recently dead king.They become fearful because of this which also opens up recently healing wounds. the ghost also raises questions.... was he as good of a king as shown? was he well respected? to what extent has his death had an effect?
Scene 2
With the basis of the tragedy already established; it develops into a much deeper tragic plot. His son Hamlet is in great internal turmoil..... he is deeply mourning his father and even though it's been 2 motnhs he cannot grasp anything to help him start to move on; unlike his mother who has just re-married to the new king and uncle of Hamlet.This new joining puts more emphasis on Hamlets misery since this news deeply effects and hurts Hamlet, he feels betrayed by his mother and scorns her for her moving on so soon. Shakespeare shows the contrast in moods between these characters by the fact that Hamlet is heavly dressed in black whereas all other aspects of the play:characters and setting is colourful and in celebration which isolates him even more from everything else as if noone can relate to his pain and suffering.
scene 3
a different type of tragedy is new established in this scene... introducing Ophelia as a sub-plot.Her father and brother create a new tragedy for her as the ruin her hopes and brandish hers and Hamlets love as false, this opens up heartbreak and hurts her immensely since she is madly in love with him.Although at this stage this is a minor tragic element all together it builds drama and great tragedy for the future plot.
Scene 5
Scene 4 is very short so there isnt any development to the tragedy however scene 5 is very vital for the future of the play. it starts with Hamlet stating how he has nothing left to live for after the loss of his father.... so after being told of the ghost sighting he goes in search for himself to seek the truth and hopefully shed some light on the situation. He learns that the former tragedy is much worse than originally believed as he find out from his fathers ghost that he was murdered and betrayed by his own brother and is now stuck in purgatory ( a place so awful he cannot even describe it because it scares him too much). The former tragedy of Hamlet Sr's death is now legnthened which creates an aim for Hamlet to take revenge on his father's death. tragedy was also conveyed again by the imagery of death since it was set new graves again with a melancholy feel towards it. From this event Denmark is collapsing;it effects everyone so deeply and may be the starting point of more turmoil and dismay.
It starts of with the mourning over the loss of the previous king: Hamlet senior. This Tragic loss is a widespread loss, the effects are felt and related to all over the country. Tragedy in this first scene is portrayed not only in the mood but also the setting and imagery placed throughout. there is the imagery of death portrayed through the night watchmen being near a graveyard and then later on by the dwelling omen of the appearing ghost of the recently dead king.They become fearful because of this which also opens up recently healing wounds. the ghost also raises questions.... was he as good of a king as shown? was he well respected? to what extent has his death had an effect?
Scene 2
With the basis of the tragedy already established; it develops into a much deeper tragic plot. His son Hamlet is in great internal turmoil..... he is deeply mourning his father and even though it's been 2 motnhs he cannot grasp anything to help him start to move on; unlike his mother who has just re-married to the new king and uncle of Hamlet.This new joining puts more emphasis on Hamlets misery since this news deeply effects and hurts Hamlet, he feels betrayed by his mother and scorns her for her moving on so soon. Shakespeare shows the contrast in moods between these characters by the fact that Hamlet is heavly dressed in black whereas all other aspects of the play:characters and setting is colourful and in celebration which isolates him even more from everything else as if noone can relate to his pain and suffering.
scene 3
a different type of tragedy is new established in this scene... introducing Ophelia as a sub-plot.Her father and brother create a new tragedy for her as the ruin her hopes and brandish hers and Hamlets love as false, this opens up heartbreak and hurts her immensely since she is madly in love with him.Although at this stage this is a minor tragic element all together it builds drama and great tragedy for the future plot.
Scene 5
Scene 4 is very short so there isnt any development to the tragedy however scene 5 is very vital for the future of the play. it starts with Hamlet stating how he has nothing left to live for after the loss of his father.... so after being told of the ghost sighting he goes in search for himself to seek the truth and hopefully shed some light on the situation. He learns that the former tragedy is much worse than originally believed as he find out from his fathers ghost that he was murdered and betrayed by his own brother and is now stuck in purgatory ( a place so awful he cannot even describe it because it scares him too much). The former tragedy of Hamlet Sr's death is now legnthened which creates an aim for Hamlet to take revenge on his father's death. tragedy was also conveyed again by the imagery of death since it was set new graves again with a melancholy feel towards it. From this event Denmark is collapsing;it effects everyone so deeply and may be the starting point of more turmoil and dismay.
Monday 4 October 2010
My interpretation Hamlet at the end of Act 2
Hamlet appears to be quite a deep character..... traumatised in a way by the loss of his father caused by his uncle, he's dealing with a lots of emotions. In a way i think the way he has processed information and delt with what has happened very well; hes very perceptive of others and manipulative/misleading. its very clever how he is trapping Claudius by using a play to find out how he will react when the events are acted out in front of his eyes..... its deceptive and cunning; how would you really deal with the news from the ghost of his father? you cannot just confront him because Claudius is hardly going to admit it outright and he could also be done for treason if he accused the king of such accusations.However i don't think it was very smart of Hamlet to pretend he was mad to others, however one question this raises is if his lunacy is actually put on or is it real?. the mentality of Hamlet is very fragile to begin with and with the added news it's gonna leave him with many hard situations to overcome.... should he avenge his father (the initial idea) how does he go about this? part of me pities Hamlet and thinks he is strongwilled and an exceedingly good thinker, but are his methods quite cowardly;he uses brains over brawns like his father would have done, but is this because he is scared of confrontation? He leaves many questions open to interpretation
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