“To be or not to be—that is the question”, this is arguably William Shakespeare’s most famous and well known soliloquy of all time. Even audiences unfamiliar with Shakespeare’s work have heard these words before. This serious and emotional scene depicts all of Hamlet’s thoughts and feelings towards life and death. Over the years there have been many actors who have tried to illustrate Shakespeare’s most emotional soliloquy of all time; some more successful than others. I believe that Kenneth Branagh’s rendition of “To be or not to be” is the best version of this soliloquy due to the effective usage of props and vocal dynamics. The effective usage of props is seen through the usage of the mirror which adds another dimension of symbolism and
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at his reflection Hamlet realizes that death is not always the answer because it is unknown what happens after, and realizes why people would rather suffer through their own lives rather than venturing out into something obscure. Moreover, Kenneth Branagh effectively portrays Hamlet’s soliloquy through his vocal dynamics. Throughout his entire soliloquy, Branagh speaks in a soft and quiet tone which gives this scene a secretive aura. In addition, by using this type of vocal dynamic, it effectively portrays Hamlet's uncertainty towards life as exhibited when he states "For in that sleep of death what dreams may come/ When we have shuffled off this mortal coil" (III.I.73-73), indicating that the dreams we have when we leave this mortal life is unknown. Branagh’s effective usage of props and vocal dynamics that makes his rendition of the famous soliloquy “To be or not to be” unique and distinctive from the rest. Branagh utilize the mirror to create another dimension of depth and meaning to the soliloquy while also enhancing the emotions it brings, and along with the compelling vocal dynamics that creates an creepy and suspenseful tone for the audience; it is evident that Branagh has created the best portrayal of “To be or not to
at his reflection Hamlet realizes that death is not always the answer because it is unknown what happens after, and realizes why people would rather suffer through their own lives rather than venturing out into something obscure. Moreover, Kenneth Branagh effectively portrays Hamlet’s soliloquy through his vocal dynamics. Throughout his entire soliloquy, Branagh speaks in a soft and quiet tone which gives this scene a secretive aura. In addition, by using this type of vocal dynamic, it effectively portrays Hamlet's uncertainty towards life as exhibited when he states "For in that sleep of death what dreams may come/ When we have shuffled off this mortal coil" (III.I.73-73), indicating that the dreams we have when we leave this mortal life is unknown. Branagh’s effective usage of props and vocal dynamics that makes his rendition of the famous soliloquy “To be or not to be” unique and distinctive from the rest. Branagh utilize the mirror to create another dimension of depth and meaning to the soliloquy while also enhancing the emotions it brings, and along with the compelling vocal dynamics that creates an creepy and suspenseful tone for the audience; it is evident that Branagh has created the best portrayal of “To be or not to