Hamlet | William Shakespeare | Cliff Note Books
“Hamlet” is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare around the year 1599-1601. It tells the story of Prince Hamlet, who seeks to avenge his father’s murder and is consumed by his quest for justice. The play explores themes of revenge, madness, mortality, and the complexity of human nature.
The story begins with the ghost of King Hamlet appearing to guards at Elsinore Castle in Denmark. The ghost reveals that he was murdered by his own brother, Claudius, who has since married Hamlet’s mother, Gertrude, and assumed the throne. Prince Hamlet is distraught and vows to avenge his father’s death.
As the play unfolds, Hamlet struggles with his duty to avenge his father while facing his own doubts and moral dilemmas. He pretends to be mad, hoping to gain information and evidence against Claudius. During this time, Hamlet’s relationships with those around him become strained. He rejects his lover, Ophelia, and alienates his friends, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern.
To gather more evidence, Hamlet stages a play called “The Mousetrap” that mirrors the events of his father’s murder. Claudius reacts guiltily, confirming Hamlet’s suspicions. In his obsession for revenge, Hamlet mistakenly kills Polonius, Ophelia’s father, further fueling the turmoil.
Meanwhile, Laertes, Ophelia’s brother, returns to Denmark and seeks vengeance for his father’s death. He conspires with Claudius to plot against Hamlet. They arrange a duel between Hamlet and Laertes, where both are expected to die.
In the climactic final act, the duel takes place. Hamlet’s mother accidentally drinks poisoned wine intended for Hamlet, and Laertes wounds Hamlet with a poisoned sword. In the ensuing chaos, Gertrude dies, and Hamlet kills Claudius. Laertes, in his final moments, reveals the plot to Hamlet and asks for forgiveness. Before he dies, Hamlet names Fortinbras, the prince of Norway, as his successor.
In the end, the play showcases the destructive nature of revenge and the tragic consequences that arise from it. Hamlet’s quest for justice leads to the death of several characters, including himself. The play also raises profound questions about the uncertainty of life, the complexity of human motives, and the struggle to make meaningful choices in a world filled with deception and treachery.
How To Read Hamlet and Shakespeare
Becoming familiar with the English used in Shakespeare’s plays, including “Hamlet,” can be an exciting and rewarding journey. Here are some suggestions for students to become more acquainted with the language:
Read the Play: Start by reading the play in its entirety, following the dialogue closely. Pay attention to the structure of the sentences, the vocabulary used, and the poetic devices employed by Shakespeare.
Utilize Annotations and Glossaries: Many editions of Shakespeare’s plays come with annotations and glossaries that provide explanations for unfamiliar words, phrases, and references. These resources can help you understand the meaning and context of the language used.
Study the Language Patterns: Shakespeare’s language often includes poetic techniques such as iambic pentameter, alliteration, and metaphors. Familiarize yourself with these patterns and techniques, as they can enhance your understanding and appreciation of the text.
Listen to Audio Recordings: Listening to audio recordings of the play can greatly aid in understanding the language. Hearing the dialogue spoken by actors can bring the text to life and assist with comprehension, as you can follow the intonation and inflection of the lines.
Watch Performances: Watching live or recorded performances of “Hamlet” can provide a visual and auditory context for the language. Seeing the actors’ interpretations and their use of body language can enhance your understanding of the play.
Analyze Key Scenes and Monologues: Choose specific scenes or monologues from “Hamlet” and delve into their meaning, language, and thematic significance. Break down the lines, consider the imagery used, and analyze the characters’ motivations and emotions.
Join a Study Group or Take a Course: Engaging with other students or enrolling in a course dedicated to studying Shakespeare’s plays can offer valuable insights and discussions. Collaborating with fellow learners can provide different perspectives and deepen your understanding of the language and themes.
Consult Secondary Sources: Explore scholarly articles, books, and online resources that analyze “Hamlet” and Shakespeare’s language. These sources can provide further interpretations and critical insights into the text.
Practice Close Reading: Engage in close reading exercises where you carefully analyze passages, focusing on individual words, phrases, and their connotations. Consider the multiple layers of meaning and how the language contributes to character development and themes.
Embrace Patience and Persistence: Remember that becoming familiar with Shakespeare’s language takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and embrace the challenge of exploring the beauty and richness of his words.
By actively engaging with the text, utilizing available resources, and immersing yourself in the world of Shakespeare, you can gradually become more familiar with the English language used in “Hamlet” and develop a deeper appreciation for Shakespeare’s mastery of language.
William Shakespeare Biography
William Shakespeare, often regarded as the greatest playwright in the English language, was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, around April 26, 1564. The exact date of his birth is not known, but he was baptized on April 26, and it is traditionally observed as his birthdate. Shakespeare was the son of John Shakespeare, a prosperous glove maker and local politician, and Mary Arden.
Little is known about Shakespeare’s early life, but it is believed that he received a basic education at the King’s New School in Stratford. At the age of 18, he married Anne Hathaway, who was eight years his senior. They had three children together: Susanna and twins Hamnet and Judith.
By the late 1580s, Shakespeare had established himself as an actor and playwright in London. He became a member of the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, an acting company that later became the King’s Men. Shakespeare wrote plays for the company and eventually became a shareholder, benefiting from its success.
Shakespeare’s works can be divided into three main periods: early, middle, and late. His early plays, such as “Romeo and Juliet” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” are characterized by their youthful exuberance and romantic themes. In his middle period, he wrote more complex and introspective plays, including “Hamlet,” “Othello,” and “Macbeth.” In his later years, he focused on tragicomedies, such as “The Tempest” and “The Winter’s Tale.”
Shakespeare’s plays were performed at the Globe Theatre, an open-air theater in London where he was closely involved as a playwright and actor. His plays were popular among all social classes, and he was renowned for his mastery of language, vivid characters, and exploration of human nature.
Despite his success, Shakespeare maintained ties to his hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon, where he invested in properties and lived with his family. In 1613, the Globe Theatre burned down, but Shakespeare continued to write until around 1613-1614. He then retired to Stratford, where he died on April 23, 1616, at the age of 52.
Shakespeare’s legacy is immeasurable. He wrote 37 plays and numerous sonnets, which continue to be studied, performed, and celebrated worldwide. His works have been translated into every major language and adapted into countless films, plays, and other art forms. Shakespeare’s contributions to literature and the English language are unparalleled, and his plays remain an integral part of the cultural canon.
Characters in Hamlet
Hamlet: The tragic protagonist and Prince of Denmark. Hamlet is a complex and introspective character who is devastated by the death of his father and seeks to avenge his murder. He grapples with moral dilemmas, feigns madness, and reflects on the nature of life and death throughout the play.
Claudius: Hamlet’s uncle and the new King of Denmark. Claudius is the primary antagonist who usurped the throne by killing his brother, King Hamlet. He is manipulative, ambitious, and constantly tries to maintain his power and cover up his crime.
Gertrude: Hamlet’s mother and the Queen of Denmark. Gertrude is torn between her love for Hamlet and her loyalty to Claudius. Her hasty marriage to Claudius after King Hamlet’s death raises questions about her involvement in the plot.
Polonius: The Lord Chamberlain of Claudius’s court. Polonius is a verbose and meddling character, known for his long-winded speeches. He is a father figure to Ophelia and Laertes and becomes an unwitting victim of Hamlet’s actions.
Ophelia: Polonius’s daughter and Hamlet’s love interest. Ophelia is a young and innocent character who becomes a tragic figure. Hamlet’s rejection and feigned madness contribute to her descent into madness and eventual drowning.
Laertes: Polonius’s son and Ophelia’s brother. Laertes is impulsive and hot-tempered. He seeks revenge for his father’s death and becomes a foil to Hamlet in their shared pursuit of vengeance.
Horatio: Hamlet’s loyal and trusted friend. Horatio is a steadfast character who provides moral support to Hamlet. He serves as a sounding board for Hamlet’s thoughts and is a witness to the events in the play.
Ghost of King Hamlet: The spirit of Hamlet’s father, who appears to the guards and later to Hamlet. The ghost reveals the truth about his murder and sets in motion Hamlet’s quest for revenge.
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern: Childhood friends of Hamlet summoned by Claudius to spy on him. They are portrayed as opportunistic and ultimately meet tragic ends.
Fortinbras: The Prince of Norway. Fortinbras is a foil to Hamlet, as he is a man of action, seeking to regain lost territories for his father. His presence highlights Hamlet’s indecisiveness.
Quotes From Hamlet
“To be, or not to be: that is the question.” – Hamlet (Act III, Scene I)
This famous soliloquy reflects Hamlet’s contemplation of life and death, expressing his internal struggle and existential questions.
“Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.” – Marcellus (Act I, Scene IV)
Marcellus makes this remark, highlighting the pervasive corruption and deceit within the kingdom.
“This above all: to thine own self be true.” – Polonius (Act I, Scene III)
Polonius imparts this advice to his son, emphasizing the importance of being authentic and true to oneself.
“The lady doth protest too much, methinks.” – Queen Gertrude (Act III, Scene II)
Queen Gertrude makes this remark while watching the play within the play, suggesting that someone’s excessive defense may indicate guilt.
“There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.” – Hamlet (Act II, Scene II)
Hamlet expresses his belief that our perception and interpretation shape our understanding of good and evil.
“Brevity is the soul of wit.” – Polonius (Act II, Scene II)
Polonius humorously remarks that being concise and to the point is the essence of wit.
“Though this be madness, yet there is method in ‘t.” – Polonius (Act II, Scene II)
Polonius suggests that Hamlet’s feigned madness might have a purpose or strategy behind it.
“Give me that man that is not passion’s slave.” – Hamlet (Act III, Scene II)
Hamlet desires to find a man who is not controlled by his emotions, highlighting his own struggle with passion and reason.
“Doubt thou the stars are fire, Doubt that the sun doth move, Doubt truth to be a liar, But never doubt I love.” – Hamlet (Act II, Scene II)
In a letter to Ophelia, Hamlet expresses his unwavering love for her, despite the doubts and uncertainties of the world.
“Good night, sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!” – Horatio (Act V, Scene II)
Horatio bids farewell to Hamlet, acknowledging his noble and tragic fate, and wishing him peace in the afterlife.
Themes in Hamlet
Revenge and Justice: The theme of revenge is central to the play, as Hamlet seeks to avenge his father’s murder. The exploration of justice and the moral complexities surrounding revenge are vital aspects of the story.
Madness and Sanity: The play delves into the theme of madness, both real and feigned. Hamlet’s erratic behavior and his contemplation of the nature of sanity raise questions about the human mind’s fragility and the blurred line between sanity and madness.
Appearance vs. Reality: Throughout the play, characters often wear masks and engage in deception. The theme of appearance versus reality explores the contrast between what is perceived on the surface and the underlying truth, emphasizing the theme of deceit and the challenge of discerning truth in a world of illusions.
Moral Corruption: The theme of moral corruption is prevalent in “Hamlet.” The court of Denmark is depicted as a corrupt and morally compromised environment, with characters engaging in treachery, manipulation, and betrayal.
Mortality and the Meaning of Life: The play delves into profound contemplation of human mortality and the existential questions surrounding the purpose and meaning of life. Hamlet’s introspective soliloquies reflect his grappling with these themes.
The Complexity of Human Nature: “Hamlet” explores the multifaceted nature of human beings. Characters exhibit a range of qualities, including ambition, love, indecisiveness, and moral conflicts. The play raises questions about the complexity and contradictions inherent in human nature.
Family and Filial Duty: The play explores the relationships between parents and children, particularly the strained bond between Hamlet and his mother, Gertrude. Themes of duty, loyalty, and the consequences of familial betrayal are examined.
The Power of Words and Language: Language plays a significant role in “Hamlet.” The characters use words as weapons, employing rhetoric and wordplay to manipulate others. The theme highlights the power of language to shape perception, reveal truths, and influence actions.
The Inevitability of Death: Death is a pervasive theme in the play. It is presented as an inescapable and universal reality, with characters grappling with their mortality and the consequences of their actions in the face of death.
Inaction and Procrastination: Hamlet’s struggle with inaction and his tendency to delay his actions form a crucial theme. The play raises questions about the consequences of indecisiveness and the nature of procrastination in the face of moral responsibility.
Criticisms of Hamlet
Inconsistencies and Structural Issues: Some critics argue that “Hamlet” suffers from structural weaknesses, such as abrupt shifts in tone and pacing. They claim that the play incorporates too many subplots, leading to a lack of focus and coherence.
Protagonist’s Indecisiveness: One common criticism revolves around Hamlet’s indecisiveness and inaction. Critics argue that his prolonged contemplation and inability to act quickly can be frustrating and make it difficult to sympathize with the character.
Treatment of Female Characters: Some critics have raised concerns about the portrayal of women in “Hamlet.” They argue that female characters like Gertrude and Ophelia are depicted as weak and passive, and their roles primarily revolve around their relationships with male characters.
Lack of Historical Accuracy: Shakespeare’s portrayal of Denmark has been criticized for its lack of historical accuracy. The play incorporates elements of Danish history and folklore, but some scholars argue that Shakespeare took liberties and did not adhere strictly to the historical context.
Overreliance on Soliloquies: While many appreciate the poetic beauty and introspective nature of Hamlet’s soliloquies, others argue that the play relies too heavily on these monologues. Critics claim that the excessive use of soliloquies slows down the action and can become repetitive.
Unresolved Questions and Ambiguity: “Hamlet” is known for its open-endedness and ambiguous interpretations. Some critics find the play’s unresolved questions and ambiguities frustrating, as they can lead to different readings and make it challenging to arrive at a definitive interpretation.
Structure of Hamlet
The play “Hamlet” by William Shakespeare follows a five-act structure, which was a common dramatic structure in Elizabethan theater. Here is a breakdown of the play’s structure:
Act I:
Scene 1: The play opens with the appearance of the ghost of King Hamlet to the guards on the battlements of Elsinore Castle, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue.
Scenes 2-5: The subsequent scenes introduce the main characters, establish the political and familial dynamics, and set the stage for the central conflict. The audience learns about the murder of King Hamlet, Claudius’s ascension to the throne, Hamlet’s mourning, and the plans to stage a play to reveal the truth.
Act II:
Scenes 1-2: The action shifts to Polonius’s house, where Hamlet’s “antic disposition” is further explored, and Polonius’s schemes to spy on Hamlet are introduced.
Scenes 3-4: Hamlet engages in a conversation with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, and Polonius reads a love letter from Hamlet to Ophelia, leading him to believe that Hamlet’s madness is due to unrequited love.
Act III:
Scenes 1-2: The “To be or not to be” soliloquy takes place, showcasing Hamlet’s inner turmoil. The play within the play, called “The Mousetrap,” is performed to provoke a reaction from Claudius.
Scene 3: Claudius prays for forgiveness, but Hamlet refrains from killing him, as he believes it would be too merciful.
Scenes 4-5: Hamlet confronts his mother, Gertrude, in her chamber, and accidentally kills Polonius, thinking it is Claudius. The ghost of King Hamlet appears to Hamlet, reminding him of his mission.
Act IV:
Scenes 1-3: Hamlet is sent away to England by Claudius, and Ophelia’s madness and subsequent death by drowning are reported. Laertes returns, seeking revenge for his father’s death.
Scenes 4-7: Hamlet returns to Denmark, and tensions rise between Hamlet and Laertes. Claudius and Laertes conspire to kill Hamlet through a rigged fencing match.
Act V:
Scenes 1-2: Hamlet and Horatio discuss mortality and fate in the graveyard, where the famous “Alas, poor Yorick” scene occurs. Ophelia’s funeral takes place.
Scene 2: The fencing match between Hamlet and Laertes takes place, resulting in a series of tragic events, including the deaths of Gertrude, Laertes, Claudius, and Hamlet himself.
Scene 2 (continued): Horatio survives to tell Hamlet’s story and Fortinbras, the Prince of Norway, arrives to assume power over Denmark.
This structure allows the play to unfold gradually, building tension and exploring various subplots while keeping the central focus on Hamlet’s journey of revenge and self-discovery.
Summaries of Hamlet
Act One
Act 1, Scene 1:
The play opens on the battlements of Elsinore Castle in Denmark, where two guards, Marcellus and Bernardo, discuss the ghost that has been appearing. Horatio, a scholar and friend of Prince Hamlet, joins them. The ghost of King Hamlet appears, and Horatio suggests they inform Hamlet about it.
Act 1, Scene 2:
In the court of Elsinore, Claudius, the new King of Denmark, addresses the courtiers and announces his marriage to Queen Gertrude, the late King Hamlet’s widow and Prince Hamlet’s mother. Claudius sends ambassadors to Norway to prevent young Fortinbras from attacking Denmark.
Hamlet enters, still grieving over his father’s death. Claudius advises him to move on and addresses the issue of his melancholic behavior. Hamlet’s soliloquy reveals his distress and suspicion regarding his father’s death and his mother’s hasty remarriage.
Horatio informs Hamlet about the appearance of the ghost. Hamlet decides to join the guards and witness the ghost himself, hoping it may reveal the truth about his father’s death.
Act 1, Scene 3:
In Polonius’s house, Laertes, Polonius’s son, prepares to leave for France. Polonius gives him advice on how to conduct himself and warns against excess. He also advises his daughter, Ophelia, to be wary of her relationship with Hamlet, suggesting that Hamlet’s love may not be sincere.
Ophelia reveals to Polonius that Hamlet has been showing affectionate yet confusing behavior towards her. Polonius suspects Hamlet’s love for Ophelia might be the cause of his melancholy.
Act 1, Scene 4:
On the castle battlements, Hamlet, Horatio, and Marcellus await the ghost’s arrival. As the ghost appears, Hamlet follows it, despite Horatio and Marcellus’s concerns. Horatio and Marcellus decide to follow Hamlet to ensure his safety.
Act 1, Scene 5:
Hamlet meets the ghost, who reveals himself as the spirit of King Hamlet, demanding revenge for his murder. The ghost informs Hamlet that he was poisoned by Claudius, his own brother, and urges Hamlet to avenge his death while sparing his mother. Hamlet vows to fulfill the ghost’s request.
Act 1, Scene 5 (continued):
Hamlet swears Horatio and Marcellus to secrecy regarding the ghost’s appearance and his intentions. He expresses his frustration with the corruption in the court and resolves to put on an “antic disposition” to deceive others about his true motives.
In the final moments of Act 1, Scene 5, the ghost disappears, and Hamlet contemplates the weight of his responsibility and the uncertainty of his situation.
Act 1 sets the stage for the conflicts and central themes of the play, introducing the characters, establishing the political and familial dynamics, and setting Hamlet on his path of revenge. It also lays the groundwork for the exploration of deception, madness, and moral corruption that will unfold in the subsequent acts.
Act Two
Act 2, Scene 1:
Polonius sends his servant, Reynaldo, to France to spy on Laertes and gather information about his behavior. Polonius then plans to eavesdrop on a meeting between Hamlet and Ophelia to determine if Hamlet’s love for her is the cause of his madness.
Claudius and Gertrude summon Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, childhood friends of Hamlet, to help discover the cause of his strange behavior. They agree to assist Claudius in his efforts to uncover the truth.
Polonius encounters Hamlet, who engages in a series of witty and cryptic exchanges with him. Polonius leaves, and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern arrive. Hamlet suspects they were sent for by Claudius and Gertrude to spy on him.
Act 2, Scene 2:
Hamlet welcomes a group of traveling actors to Elsinore. He requests a performance of a play called “The Murder of Gonzago,” which mirrors the circumstances of his father’s death, in the hope of observing Claudius’s reaction.
Polonius enters and informs Hamlet that the players are ready. Hamlet speaks to the actors, giving them advice on acting and instructing them to perform the play as faithfully as possible.
After the actors leave, Hamlet reveals his plan to Horatio. He intends to watch Claudius’s reaction during the play to confirm his guilt.
Act 2, Scene 3:
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern meet with Hamlet, attempting to uncover the cause of his apparent madness. Hamlet outwits them, engaging in philosophical and nonsensical discussions.
Polonius interrupts their conversation, and Hamlet mocks him with his wordplay. The arrival of the players interrupts their exchange.
Hamlet arranges for the players to perform the play that evening, which will reenact the murder of King Hamlet. He instructs them on how to add some lines to the play to make it more reflective of the actual murder.
Act 2, Scene 4:
Hamlet speaks with the First Player, urging him to deliver a speech that expresses the true grief and passion he feels. Polonius enters and announces the arrival of the queen to watch the play.
Hamlet exchanges a series of witty remarks with Polonius and offers cryptic advice to the actors before leaving the scene.
Act 2, Scene 5:
As the court prepares to watch the play, Hamlet engages in a brief conversation with Horatio. He tells Horatio that he will be watching Claudius closely during the performance to confirm his guilt.
Hamlet asks Horatio to observe Claudius’s reactions and confirms his trust in him. The scene ends as they enter the hall to watch the play.
Act 2 advances the plot by showcasing Hamlet’s cunning and strategic thinking as he plans to use the play to expose Claudius’s guilt. It also continues to explore the theme of deception and the blurred lines between reality and performance. The act sets the stage for the dramatic events that unfold during the play within the play in the subsequent act.
Act Three
Act 3, Scene 1:
Hamlet delivers his famous soliloquy, “To be, or not to be,” contemplating the nature of life and death and the question of whether it is better to endure the sufferings of existence or to end one’s life. He reflects on the injustice and futility of life, expressing his inner turmoil.
Ophelia enters, accompanied by her father, Polonius, and Claudius. Claudius and Polonius hide, allowing Hamlet and Ophelia to interact. Hamlet, aware of their presence, engages in a series of bitter and scornful exchanges with Ophelia, claiming that all women are deceitful. Ophelia becomes distraught by Hamlet’s words and demeanor.
Polonius concludes that Hamlet’s madness is indeed caused by his love for Ophelia, as he suspected. Claudius decides to send Hamlet to England, hoping to rid himself of Hamlet’s increasingly dangerous behavior.
Act 3, Scene 2:
The court gathers to watch the play, “The Murder of Gonzago.” Hamlet, aware of Claudius’s guilt, directs the players to perform a scene that mirrors his father’s murder. As the play unfolds, Claudius becomes visibly uncomfortable and disturbed.
Unable to contain his emotions, Claudius abruptly ends the play and calls for lights. He leaves the room, followed by the courtiers, while Hamlet and Horatio remain behind. Hamlet is convinced of Claudius’s guilt, and Horatio agrees to help him further investigate.
Act 3, Scene 3:
Claudius confesses his guilt and prays for forgiveness, revealing his remorse over killing King Hamlet and his fear of the consequences in the afterlife. Hamlet enters the scene and contemplates killing Claudius while he is vulnerable, but decides against it, as he does not want to send him to heaven through a state of repentance.
Act 3, Scene 4:
Hamlet encounters his mother, Gertrude, in her private chamber. They engage in a heated confrontation, during which Hamlet chastises Gertrude for her hasty marriage to Claudius and accuses her of betraying his father’s memory. Polonius, hiding behind an arras (curtain), makes a noise, and thinking it is Claudius, Hamlet impulsively stabs through the curtain, killing Polonius.
Hamlet realizes he has killed Polonius and reveals his true feelings about his mother’s actions. Gertrude, shocked and terrified, promises to keep Hamlet’s secret.
Act 3, Scene 4 (continued):
The ghost of King Hamlet appears to Hamlet, reminding him of his mission to seek revenge and to spare his mother. Hamlet chastises Gertrude for her actions and the consequences they have brought upon their family.
Hamlet urges Gertrude to confess her sins and avoid further involvement with Claudius. Gertrude, unable to see the ghost, believes Hamlet to be mad and pleads for his sanity.
Act 3, Scene 4 (continued):
Hamlet’s interaction with Gertrude is interrupted by the ghost’s presence, which only Hamlet can see. Hamlet speaks to the ghost, reaffirming his commitment to revenge and expressing his disappointment in Gertrude.
The ghost disappears, and Hamlet implores Gertrude to be honest with herself and to live virtuously. He assures her that he is not mad but speaks the truth.
Act 3 showcases critical turning points in the play. Hamlet’s confrontation with Ophelia and Gertrude reveals his deep emotional turmoil, and his
Act Four
Act 4, Scene 1:
In a conversation with Gertrude, Claudius expresses his concern over Hamlet’s actions and the recent killing of Polonius. He decides to send Hamlet to England for his own safety and orders Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to accompany him. Claudius expresses remorse for his sins and hopes that England will find a solution to Hamlet’s madness.
Act 4, Scene 2:
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern confront Hamlet about the location of Polonius’s body. Hamlet evades their questions, engaging in witty wordplay and refusing to disclose the truth. Hamlet criticizes them for betraying their friendship and warns them about the futility of their actions.
Fortinbras, the Prince of Norway, enters with his army. Hamlet reflects on the passionate and ambitious nature of Fortinbras, comparing it to his own inaction. He admires Fortinbras’s willingness to fight for an insignificant cause.
Act 4, Scene 3:
Laertes returns to Elsinore upon hearing of his father’s death and demands to know the truth. Claudius reveals that Polonius is dead and attempts to placate Laertes, shifting the blame onto Hamlet. Claudius and Laertes conspire to seek revenge against Hamlet, discussing their plans to kill him.
Ophelia, in a state of madness, enters and sings nonsensical songs. Gertrude and Claudius observe her distraught state, and Gertrude expresses her concern for Ophelia’s well-being.
Act 4, Scene 4:
Hamlet encounters a Norwegian captain who informs him of Fortinbras’s plan to attack Poland over a small piece of land. Hamlet reflects on the passionate resolve of Fortinbras, feeling ashamed of his own inability to take action. He vows to be more decisive and proactive in his quest for revenge.
Act 4, Scene 5:
In a brief scene, Ophelia’s madness worsens, and she speaks incoherently to the court. Gertrude expresses her sadness and confusion over Ophelia’s mental state.
Laertes arrives, furious over his father’s death and demanding justice. Claudius attempts to pacify Laertes, assuring him that he will take action against Hamlet. Claudius proposes a plan in which Laertes will challenge Hamlet to a fencing match, but with a poisoned blade to ensure Hamlet’s death.
Act 4, Scene 6:
Horatio receives a letter from Hamlet, informing him of his return to Denmark and explaining the events that have transpired. Hamlet requests Horatio’s support and assistance in the upcoming events.
Act 4, Scene 7:
Claudius convinces Laertes to participate in the plot to kill Hamlet, promising that their plan will be successful. Gertrude enters with news of Ophelia’s death by drowning, further intensifying Laertes’s desire for revenge.
Act 4 sets the stage for the tragic events that unfold in Act 5. It showcases the growing tension and conspiracies against Hamlet, as Claudius and Laertes plot his demise. The madness of Ophelia and the contrasting actions of Fortinbras highlight Hamlet’s own inner struggles and his determination to take action. The act deepens the themes of revenge, madness, and the destructive consequences of deceit.
Act Five
Act 5, Scene 1:
In a churchyard, two gravediggers engage in a conversation as they prepare Ophelia’s grave. They discuss the nature of death, the social distinctions of burial, and the impact of Ophelia’s tragic demise.
Hamlet and Horatio enter the scene. Hamlet reflects on mortality, contemplating the fleeting nature of human life. He stumbles upon the skull of Yorick, the jester from his childhood, which leads him into a contemplation on the inevitable fate of all individuals.
Laertes arrives, distraught over his sister Ophelia’s death. He confronts the gravediggers and engages in a heated exchange with Hamlet. Their altercation escalates, but is interrupted by the arrival of the funeral procession.
Act 5, Scene 2:
The funeral procession enters, led by Gertrude, Claudius, Laertes, and other mourners. Hamlet conceals his identity, observing the scene from a distance. He overhears Laertes expressing his grief and anger over Ophelia’s death.
Hamlet reveals himself and engages in a verbal sparring match with Laertes. They exchange insults, fueled by their respective mourning and anger. Claudius attempts to intervene, urging them to be calm, and Gertrude pleads for peace.
The tension subsides momentarily as Hamlet and Laertes are separated. Claudius tries to calm Laertes, but Laertes remains determined to seek revenge for his father’s and sister’s deaths.
Act 5, Scene 2 (continued):
Hamlet and Horatio share a private moment, reflecting on the chaos surrounding them. Hamlet confides in Horatio about his trust in fate and his acceptance of the impending events.
Osric, a courtier, arrives to inform Hamlet of the fencing match arranged between Hamlet and Laertes. Osric presents elaborate and exaggerated praises for Hamlet and delivers Claudius’s message regarding the contest.
Hamlet accepts the challenge, and the scene ends with a sense of foreboding.
Act 5, Scene 2 (continued):
The fencing match begins. Hamlet and Laertes exchange blows, and during the match, Laertes strikes Hamlet with a poisoned rapier. In the ensuing scuffle, their swords are exchanged, and Hamlet wounds Laertes with the poisoned blade as well.
Gertrude, attempting to stop the fight, inadvertently drinks from a poisoned cup that Claudius had prepared as a backup plan. She collapses and dies, revealing that the cup was intended for Hamlet.
Laertes, upon realizing his impending death, confesses the plot to Hamlet and reveals Claudius’s guilt. He asks for Hamlet’s forgiveness before succumbing to the poison.
Hamlet, now mortally wounded, confronts Claudius, forcing him to drink from the poisoned cup. Hamlet’s revenge is fulfilled as Claudius dies.
Horatio, witnessing the tragedy unfold, tries to drink from the poisoned cup in a gesture of loyalty to Hamlet, but Hamlet stops him. Hamlet requests that Horatio share his story with the world and ensure that his name lives on.
As Hamlet’s life fades away, Fortinbras and his troops enter the scene, discovering the aftermath of the tragedy. Horatio tells Fortinbras about the events that transpired, and Fortinbras, recognizing Hamlet as a noble figure, honors him with a soldier’s funeral.
The play ends with Fortinbras paying tribute to Hamlet, reflecting on the nature of his actions and the consequences of his choices.
Act 5 concludes the play with a series of tragic events that lead to the downfall of several characters. The scenes in the churchyard emphasize the universal inevitability of death and provide a somber backdrop for the final confrontations.
The clash between Hamlet and Laertes in the fencing match represents the climax of their conflict and serves as a culmination of the play’s themes of revenge and mortality. Their mutual wounds and the revelation of Claudius’s guilt bring a sense of justice, but at a great cost.
The deaths of Gertrude, Laertes, Claudius, and Hamlet mark the ultimate tragedy of the play, highlighting the destructive consequences of deceit and ambition. Gertrude’s death, caused by drinking the poisoned cup meant for Hamlet, reveals the consequences of her loyalty to Claudius and her unwitting involvement in the plot.
As Hamlet faces his own mortality, he confronts Claudius one last time, ensuring his revenge is carried out before succumbing to the poison himself. In his final act, Hamlet achieves his goal of avenging his father’s death but at the cost of his own life.
Horatio, as the sole survivor and witness, is entrusted with the task of sharing Hamlet’s story and preserving his legacy. Fortinbras, who arrives at the end, symbolizes the restoration of order and the potential for a new era. His recognition of Hamlet’s nobility leads him to grant Hamlet an honorable soldier’s funeral.
The conclusion of “Hamlet” leaves audiences with a sense of catharsis, as the tragic events reach their resolution. The play prompts reflection on themes such as revenge, mortality, and the consequences of deceit, while emphasizing the complexity of human nature and the choices individuals make.
Overall, Act 5 serves as the dramatic culmination of the play, tying together the various storylines and providing a poignant and thought-provoking conclusion to one of Shakespeare’s most renowned tragedies.