To be sane or not to be sane
Uploaded by MidNyteSpecial69 on Nov 28, 2001
The Shakespearian play “Hamlet, Prince of Denmark” offers a puzzling main character by presenting an apparent sane man portraying an insane one for revenge. The question of Hamlet’s lucidity is perceptible throughout the play. At first glance, the view of Hamlet is simply a heartbroken individual bent on revenge. He is seen having lost a father to death, a mother to remarriage and a kingdom to his uncle in a span of two months. However, as the play progresses extenuating circumstances and events arise that speed the deterioration of his mind. Therefore, the notion of Hamlet being a sane individual playing the role of a madman can be disputed with an in depth analysis of his character, actions and a diagnosis of schizophrenia.
The temperament of Hamlet can allude to his mindset throughout the play. In other words, by studying Hamlet’s view of himself an answer to the stability of his mind is provided. The first clue is in act one scene two where he makes a comment about the king. “My father’s brother, but no more like my father/ Than I to Hercules” (152-153); this quote is stating Hamlet doubts his strength and/or heroic capabilities. The next indication is in the statement “Haste me to know’t, that I, with wings as swift / As meditation or the thoughts of love, / May sweep me to my revenge” (1.5 29-31). In this passage, he inquired to the ghost to inform him about his father’s murder so it will anger him into revenge. However, by the end of the scene Hamlet has lost heart and is unsure of himself. Another clue can be found in the quote, “O, what a rogue and peasant slave I am” (2.2 550). Here he blames himself for his lack of passion and accuses himself of cowardice. The final clue is in his famous suicidal thoughts. “To be or not to be …” ( ) Hamlet is questioning the living and if he should try to exist among them. Singularly, these clues state he is unsure of himself however, if combined they show his slow deterioration from being uncertain to suicidal.
The actions Hamlet demonstrate as the play progresses provide a glimpse at the stability of his mind. The first exhibition of his building madness can be seen when Hamlet states he will “put an antic disposition on-“ (2.1, 181). This statement occurs after his conversation...