Sudeep Annem Essays - Literature, Characters In Hamlet, Arts

Sudeep Annem Mrs. Burch AP English Literature 29 November 2017 "To Be or not to Be" Explication The soliloquy that I have decided to examine is the most famous in Hamlet, and perhaps the most famous soliloquy that Shakespeare ever wrote. The "too be, or not to be" soliloquy differs from his first two soliloquies . Hamlet exhibits more reason than the emphatic passionate displays the readers are used to witnessing. Hamlet is now unable to take action and is simply waiting to "catch the conscience of the king." While he bides his time, he invokes a philosophical argument about the pros and cons of existence, and if individuals have the right to end their own lives. Renowned researchers like the Shakespearian scholar Harold Jenkins believe that the significant purpose of this soliloquy is specifically to address this debate. Jenkins states that " Hamlet's first two major soliloquies, his third and most famous speech seems to be governed by reason and not frenzied emotion. Unable to do little but wait for completion of his plan to "catch the conscience of the king ", Hamlet sparks an internal philosophical debate on the advantages and disadvantages of existence, and whether it is one's right to end his or her own life . Personally, I gleaned from this passage that Hamlet seems to be considering prospects of death, and Shakespeare furthers the archetypes of death, revenge and purpose that he has created throughout the course of the drama. It also displays Hamlet as a confused man. Hamlet is not very self-confident and this is shown through the inner turmoil he faces and how he displays insanity in order to cope with his struggles. The speech occurs because it symbolizes a shift in the story. Hamlet's careful planning for revenge is about to come to a climax, and this soliloquy serves to show how Hamlet remains uncertain within his mind while also insinuating the decisiveness that he has in committing the act regardless of how it affects him mentally. Hamlet goes on to discuss what may happen once one leaves this earth. He demonstrates his fear of "what dreams may com" (3, 1, 74) and his "dread of something after death" (3, 1, 86). In the soliloquy, Hamlet states "Whether tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune or to take arms against a sea of troubles, And by opposing them" (3, 1, 70-74). Here he demonstrates his struggles with death vs. life and whether death was a suitable option to avoid suffering. This suffering has plagued Hamlet since his dear father has died, and it has been eluded too that the madness he displays is either what has truly afflicted him or a mask of emotions for his guilt. Hamlet shows that he believe life is synonymous with suffering. He compares the "whips and scorn of times, Th'oppressor's wrong, the proud man's contumely, The pangs of disprized love" (3, 1, 70-72) to all of the horrors and pain he has witnessed through his tragic life. Shakespeare reinforces the idea of how mentally exhausting Hamlet's ordeal has been. Death would be a respite from all of the conflict and confusing decisions he has had to make. Thus, by having Hamlet discuss the morality of these options the readers clearly see the desperation that Hamlet feels and this allows the readers to form connections with the power of these statements and Hamlet's predicament . If Hamlet chose to end his life, he would be freed from his obligations to avenge his father, freed from the guilt of plotting against his uncle, and free to avoid witnessing the immoral acts of Claudius and his mother Gertrude. However, the depiction of Hamlet as a tragic hero archetype becomes enriched as a result of this soliloquy as well because although he has such a tantalizing opportunity for relief and lack of responsibility, Hamlet demonstrates perseverance and determination by refusing to succumb to the depravity of his mind. The imagery of angels and freedom refer to the relaxation and peace that Hamlet could find if he so chose and the tone shift from the animated insanity th at Hamlet usually displays to his calm and analytical