Hamlet Soliloquy Analysis

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Hamlet Soliloquy Analysis

As Act I of Shakespeare's Hamlet concludes, a conversation between the

protagonist Hamlet and the ghost of his deceased father, King Hamlet

occurs. In response to the ghost's request for Hamlet to take revenge,

Hamlet shares his thoughts with the audience in a soliloquy. Through

vows and promises, Hamlet's oral reaction to the King's request

exposes his full will for revenge. In addition, Hamlet's word-choice

begins to exhibit the blind passion and zeal that characterizes his

actions throughout the remainder of the play. These components of

Hamlet's second soliloquy together exemplify his complete

determination, which ultimately allows him to succeed in avenging his

father's murder.

Hamlet, a character known for his intellect rather than initiative,

lacks the gall to take action. The post-mortem request of the king

therefore catalyzes Hamlet's decision to act. The ghost initiates

Hamlet's actions by providing evidence to justify revenge, fodder for

action. Hamlet's true identity can now shin...

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