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Replies | Post Reply | Shakespeare Queries From Genuinely Interested Students 3.15.97: Top | Help
Revenge is also on the mind of the Ghost. In fact, that's why Hamlet Sr. makes an entrance in the first place -- to avenge his most foul murder.You could point out that the ultimate failure of both Hamlet and Laertes to succeed illustrates the futility of revenge... the only character in the play that really gets what he wants is the Ghost, and he doesn't really count because he's dead. ;)
If you want good examples, look at Act IV, scene V, when Laertes comes back to Elsinoire enraged about Polonius' death. Another good place is Hamlet's talk with the Ghost in Act I. Also, look at III.iii, when Hamlet comes in and sees the King trying to pray.
At this point, Hamlet could kill Claudius and Hamlet would win. He could convince the nobles of the court that Claudius' reaction to the play illustrates the King's guilt and Hamlet might very well succeed to the throne with the full force of public opinion behind him.
But he doesn't. In III.iii Hamlet says,
"Now might I do it pat, now he is praying;
And now I'll do't. And so he goes to heaven;
And so am I revenged."
Hamlet doesn't just want Claudius dead, he wants the King condemned for all eternity. For Hamlet, true revenge means damnation, not just death.Hope this helps to oil your mental gears... best of fortune to you!
Regards,
~R~Posted by Rogue on April 01, 1997 at 09:19:19
In Reply to "Help with Hamlet Thesis PLEASE!!!! :)" posted by Erin on April 01, 1997 at 08:52:21
Replies | Post Reply | Shakespeare Queries From Genuinely Interested Students 3.15.97: Top | Help