Hamlet Soliloquy In Act 1

1. This passage was spoken by Hamlet during act four, and it clearly shows the development in Hamlets character. What makes this soliloquy so interesting is that it presents a very imperative change for Hamlet, a change from hesitancy to fearless action. Hamlet finally realizes that his duty for revenge is taking over his life and that the end must justify the means. All throughout the play, Hamlet was worried about the consequences of what he might do, and always hesitated. However, as he noticed the Norwegian soldier’s abilities to risk their lives for a small piece of land motivated him to take action. He realizes that Fortinbras is fighting to protect his honor as a solider. This is what changes Hamlet, and clearly has an impact on his …show more content…
Shakespeare also uses the literary device of an ambiguity. Depending on the situation, ambiguity can be negative, leading to confusion or even disaster. Writers often use it to achieve special effects, for instance, to reflect the complexity of an issue and determine truth. Shakespeare uses it to portray the truth that when everyone dies, they are all equal. The conceit that is seen in this dialogue is the extended metaphor of worms. What Hamlet means by this quote is that a person can take a worm that's eaten a king's flesh and go use it for bait to fish with. Shakespeare’s clever use of complex language, the juxtaposition between Kings and beggars, and unique imagery allow the audience to gain a better understanding of equality, and how in the end, everyone is equal. This quote could have caused controversy since many believed that there was a divide between rich and poor. Shakespeare then goes on to express the belief that a king is no better than a beggar, implying he does not believe their social hierarchy. This should really impact the audience because they lived in this society. Some might either agree with his opinion or disagree. When Hamlet says, “A man may fish with the worm that hath eat of a king and eat of the fish that hath fed of that worm…a king many go a progress through the guts of a beggar,” (4.3.30-35) Shakespeare is using Hamlet to express his feelings that the monarchy has no value after death. The issue of the worm shows how little man is and how equal he has become. All in all, Shakespeare illustrates that in death there is no greatness, but equality for