At the end of scene three, Why does Hamlet seem so eager to be leaving? After Hamlet’s departure, what is Claudius’ goal?
Deanidactyl
3/20/2014 12:51:01 pm
Hamlet is completely willing to go to England. He does not wish to stay in Denmark. It almost appears as though he wants to clear his mind of everything that has happened for a while. He has killed a man and has been traumatized by this. He also does not want to see Claudius as king any longer, and as much as he wants to kill him and thus remove him from the throne, he is also happy simply to go to another place where Claudius has no power. The final thing he wants to run away from is his mother. He loves her, but cannot stand to see her with his uncle.
Kate
3/30/2014 05:12:21 am
I agree with this. Hamlet does seem very willing to leave Denmark and go to England, and this is most likely due to his desire to clear his mind. We've seen throughout the entire play that Hamlet is incredibly intelligent. The reader can assume that Hamlet realizes that in order for his plan to really succeed, and in order for him to not completely lose himself, he must seek solace away from the problem. I think the situation with his mother has more to do with his promise to his father. The ghost made Hamlet "swear" to not punish Gertrude for essentially betraying him. I have a feeling that Hamlet is struggling to keep this promise as he has to see her with Claudius every day. This would be a daunting challenge for anyone. By going to England he can step back and choke down some of his emotions that he is feeling particularly towards his mother.
Emma
3/22/2014 01:44:26 pm
I agree with Dean. Hamlet leaves so that he can clear his mind of the craziness that surrounds him. Before Hamlet kills Polonious, it is clearly evident that he is baring a heavy load of stress. It is obvious in several parts of the play that Hamlet is torn as to whether or not he wants to be a killer. Although he despises Claudius and wishes to seek revenge on him, he can not commit himself to completing the act. I feel that whether or not Polinius had been killed, Hamlet would have left to England to clear is mind and gather his barings. It was a way for him to temporarily reprieve himself from his crazy life. The trip also could of allowed him to think of a clear way to fulfill his revenge. When Hamlet leaves it is perfect for Claudius to do the same. He knows Hamlet is aware of the murder he committed. This break and several country safety allows Homs to plan his nex moves withouth having to worry about where Hamlet is and what he is doing.
Skyler Timmins
3/23/2014 08:49:18 am
Leaving the country as a stress reliever is a good observation by both Emma and Dean. Revenge is a stressful business and takes quite a bit out of a person, as is evident in Hamlet. I relate his wanting to leave Denmark eagerly to us as students, especially with Spring Break right now. It's a time to clear our minds and get away from everything that happens within the confines of the school. Hamlet needed to clear his mind and prepare for the finale that is quickly approaching. Claudius also sees it as a time to prepare for the end and get his ducks in a row to dispose of Hamlet. Hamlet leaving opens a brief "calm before the storm" moment that will lead up to the deciding moment at the end. Comments are closed.
|
AuthorMrs. Lopez (AP Literature and Composition Instructor) Archives
September 2014
Categories |