Shakespeare uses Hamlet’s character to exemplify the theme of appearance verses reality and the hypocrisy of humanity. In Act I scene II, we see Hamlet exerting his indignation for deception. In voicing that he “know[s] not seems,” and that he does not “seem sad, [he is] sad”, Hamlet projects himself to be a man of honesty, which he implies is a trait others fall short of. Hamlet establishes his moral standings, stressing his beliefs of being true to one’s self and the way that one’s outward appearance
oppression of women in society as well as tragedy.” In Act 3, Scene 1, Ophelia, following orders from Polonius, tells Hamlet that she would like to return the love letters Hamlet wrote to her. Hamlet’s demeanor quickly escalates bitterly as he denies ever loving her or giving her anything. Hamlet’s refusal of feeling hurt and masking his grief by threatening and mistreating Ophelia shows much power Hamlet has over her. To most readers, Ophelia’s submissiveness could be seen as fear but through a feminist
Hamlet is a revenge tragedy that explores the multitude of complex values and issues prevalent within Shakespeare’s society. As we engage with the text, we realise it to be a depiction of universal human concerns, and as such allows the play to have continued relevance today. Through the inherent tension between conflict and resolution in Hamlet, we question our self imposed morals, as well as becoming aware of the deception and corruption surrounding us. It is the inherent need for humanity
into recognizing her failure in marrying the inferior Claudius. He seeks revenge intensely, at times. He is intense about acting and friends who have turned traitor. Hamlet is an intense character in every way, which makes this role, I think, the most demanding for any actor to play. While volumes have been written about Hamlet, one of the most intriguing characters of all literature, he possesses some very salient characteristics. Critic William Richardson writes of him, The death of his father