HAMLET

1 – Settings Hamlet is set in the 16th century, on the towers of Elsinore Castle in
(time and Denmark and in England.
space)

2 - The idea of In "Hamlet," the theme of death is central to the plot and is explored
death in various dimensions. The play explores the psychological and
philosophical aspects of death, examining its impact on individuals
and society. We can see the death at the very beginning of the story
with King Hamlet, then we can see it in his return as a ghost, in
Hamlet’s soliloquy, in Ophelia’s (drown) and Gertude’s (drank
poisoned water) death and in the final act in the duel between
Laertes and Hamlet. So in "Hamlet," death is not only a physical
reality but also a metaphorical presence, symbolising the inevitable
and inescapable aspects of human existence.

3 - Revenge We can see a lot of revenge in this story. We can see it in Hamlet,
(of the father) who want to revenge his father by killing Claudius, and in Laertes,
who want to revenge his sister’s death, who droves mad because of
Hamlet words, and his Father’s, who died causes to Hamlet as well,
since he killed him as he thought he was his uncle. These two
revenges are different because Hamlet was full of doubts, he was so
uncertain about it and we can see it also in his soliloquy, instead
Laertes’ revenge was not as doubtful as Hamlet's.

4 Fortinbras Fortinbras is the Prince of Norway and plays a significant role in the
(new king) story's context; he is present in the beginning and in the end of the
story. His father, King Fortinbras, had been killed in battle by King
Hamlet (Hamlet's father), he was supposed to be on the throne but
there was his uncle there, so his story is very similar to Hamlet’s.
Fortinbras wanted revenge so he invaded Denmark to take the
Danish crown. He provides an interesting contrast with the
protagonist, Hamlet. Both are princes seeking revenge for their dead
fathers, but while Hamlet immerses himself in deep introspection
and indecision, Fortinbras acts with determination and courage to
achieve his goal. In the final part of the drama, when many of the
main characters have died, Hamlet and Fortinbras come into
conflict. In his final act of revenge, Hamlet expresses the wish that
Fortinbras takes the Danish throne, so he becomes the king of
Denmark.

5 - Ghost (seen The ghost in "Hamlet" is a significant and mysterious character that
by the guards) plays a crucial role in the development of the plot. The ghost is
initially identified as the spirit of King Hamlet, the dead father of
Prince Hamlet. The ghost appears in the first act of the play, and its
presence sets in motion the events that drive the rest of the
narrative. The ghost informs Hamlet that he was murdered by his
own brother, Claudius, who was the king of Denmark. The ghost's
revelation serves as a starter for Hamlet's quest for revenge against
Claudius. The ghost's true nature remains ambiguous. Hamlet and
other characters question whether the ghost is a genuine spirit from
the afterlife or not. This adds complexity to the play's exploration of
the supernatural.
6 - Destiny The theme of destiny and fate is not explicitly central in "Hamlet,"
and fate but elements of it can be found in the play, particularly in relation to
the idea of predestination and the consequences of one's actions.
Throughout the play, characters fight with questions of fate and
whether their lives are guided by a divine plan. Hamlet, in particular,
reflects on the concept of fate and destiny, pondering the idea that
there is a greater force determining the course of events. The theme
of revenge in "Hamlet" introduces a sense of fate, as characters are
driven by a need to avenge perceived wrongs. While "Hamlet" is not
a play that explicitly focuses on a predetermined destiny, the themes
of revenge, tragic flaws, and the consequences of one's actions
introduce elements of fate and destiny into the narrative. (even if
Hamlet is an overthinker he has no choice).

7 Shakespeare William Shakespeare was one of the greatest playwrights and poets
in history of literature. Born in 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon,
England, Shakespeare wrote an extensive body of work ranging from
sonnets to comedies, tragedies to historical plays. Some of his most
famous works include "Romeo and Juliet," "Hamlet," "Macbeth,"
"Othello," and "King Lear." His works are renowned for their
psychological depth, linguistic mastery, and the ability to explore
universal human dilemmas. Shakespeare has influenced literature,
theatre, and Western culture, and his legacy continues to endure
today. (dramatist)

8 characters Hamlet: The prince of Denmark, Hamlet is the central character and
protagonist of the play. Hamlet is known for his philosophical
introspection and internal conflict, particularly regarding revenge
for his father's murder.
Claudius: The new king of Denmark and Hamlet's uncle. Claudius
marries Queen Gertrude shortly after the death of King Hamlet. He
becomes the primary antagonist as Hamlet seeks to avenge his
father's murder.
Gertrude: Hamlet's mother and the queen of Denmark.
Ophelia: A young woman and Hamlet's love interest. Ophelia is the
daughter of Polonius.
Polonius: The chief counsellor to King Claudius and the father of
Laertes and Ophelia. His interference in the affairs of others
contributes to the tragedy.
Laertes: Ophelia's brother and the son of Polonius. Laertes plays a
crucial role in the final act of the play.
Horatio: Hamlet's close friend and confidant.
Fortinbras: The prince of Norway, who serves as a contrast to
Hamlet.

9 - Laertes Laertes is the son of Polonius and the brother of Ophelia. Laertes
plays a significant role in the plot, especially in the context of seeking
revenge. After the death of his father Polonius and Ophelia (his
sister), Laertes becomes an ally of Claudius in Hamlet’s murder. He
allies with Claudius to enact a plan that leads to a deadly duel
between him and Hamlet. In the end, Laertes matures and expresses
remorse for his part in the plot against Hamlet. In the final duel,
Laertes reveals the truth about the conspiracy against Hamlet and
seeks his forgiveness. Laertes dies, knowing his own guilt and
Claudius's manipulation.
10 Polonius Polonius serves as an advisor to King Claudius. (counsellor). Polonius
is the father of Laertes and Ophelia, who becomes romantically
involved with Hamlet. Polonius is overly concerned with his family's
reputation and often gives them advice. Polonius involves himself in
the political trouble of the court, and he becomes an instrument in
Claudius's manipulation. He agrees to spy on Hamlet and report
back to the king and queen, hoping to gain favour in the process.
Polonius died while spying on Hamlet because he thought that the
one spying on him was his uncle, so he killed him before seeing who
it was.

11 - Ophelia Ophelia is the daughter of Polonius. She becomes romantically

involved with Prince Hamlet, and their relationship is a significant
element of the play. Hamlet's behaviour becomes erratic and
unpredictable, causing Ophelia distress. Hamlet's fake madness, part
of his plan to uncover the truth about his father's death, involves
distancing himself from Ophelia, which contributes to her
emotional troubles. Ophelia's mental state gets worse over the course
of the play, influenced by the death of her father caused by Hamlet.
Ophelia meets a tragic end by drowning. Ophelia's character is often
seen as symbolic, representing the victimisation of innocent women
in a society dominated by political and familiar machinations.

12 – Claudius Claudius is the brother of King Hamlet and becomes the new king of
Denmark by marrying Queen Gertrude shortly after his brother's
death. Claudius serves as the primary antagonist to Hamlet. Hamlet
is driven by the desire for revenge against Claudius for the murder
of his father. The conflict between Hamlet and Claudius is central to
the play's plot. Claudius meets his end during the final act of the
play. Hamlet, in his quest for revenge, forces Claudius to drink from
a poisoned cup, ensuring the king's demise. This act brings closure to
the central conflict.

13 “Play within The "play within a play" is a notable theatrical device used by
the play” William Shakespeare in "Hamlet." This scene, formally known as
"The Murder of Gonzago," is a play staged by Hamlet to discover the
truth about King Claudius's guilt in the murder of Hamlet's father.
Hamlet devises the play to catch Claudius's conscience. He believes
that seeing his crime on stage will provoke a guilty reaction from
Claudius. As the play finishes, Claudius becomes visibly disturbed
and agitated, confirming Hamlet’s suspect. The play within a play is a
critical and dramatic moment in "Hamlet." It not only serves
Hamlet's investigative purposes but also deepens the thematic
exploration of trick, betrayal, and the consequences of immoral
actions within the larger narrative.

14 - doubt Doubt is a pervasive theme in "Hamlet." The play is replete with

characters who grapple with uncertainty, hesitation, and mistrust.
Hamlet, the protagonist, is characterised by his indecision. He
doubts his ability to act decisively, especially when it comes to
avenging his father's murder. His internal conflict is evident in his
soliloquies, where he contemplates the nature of existence and the
consequences of action. Hamlet's meeting with the ghost of his
father raises questions about the supernatural, he remains uncertain
about his true nature.
15- Corruption Corruption is a prevalent theme in "Hamlet." The play explores
(decade) various forms of corruption, including political, moral, and
psychological corruption. The central act of political corruption is
King Claudius's murder of his brother, King Hamlet, in order to take
the throne. Claudius's rule is marked by deception, manipulation,
and political intrigue. His actions contribute to a corrupt and
unhealthy political climate within the Danish court. Claudius's guilt
over his murder act is a manifestation of moral corruption. His
inability to repent sincerely and his continued pursuit of power
contribute to a morally compromised character. Polonius, the king
counsellor, engages in deceptive practices, including spying on
Hamlet and using his daughter Ophelia to gather information. His
actions reflect moral compromise for political gain. The theme of
psychological corruption is evident in Hamlet's fake madness.
Whether his madness is genuine or an act, it becomes a reflection of
the corruption and chaos within the court and his own mind.
Ophelia's madness is a result of the psychological toll of her father's
death, Hamlet's bad behaviour, and the overall instability within the
court. Her descent into madness is symbolic of the corruption
surrounding her.

16 - Hamlet’s ‘’Something is rotten in the state of denmark” The line is from the
friend play "Hamlet." This quote is spoken by Marcellus, a guard. Hamlet,
Prince of Denmark, has encountered the ghost of his father, who
reveals that he was murdered by his brother Claudius, now the king.
Hamlet is deeply disturbed by this revelation and is contemplating
how to respond. Marcellus utters the famous line in response to the
unsettling and corrupt atmosphere within the Danish court.

17 - religion The play delves into complex questions about life, death, morality,
and the afterlife, and characters often fight with religious
considerations. The appearance of King Hamlet's ghost and its
revelation about his murder is a supernatural element that
introduces a religious dimension. This introduces questions about
the nature of the afterlife and the consequences of actions in this
world. Hamlet's soliloquies reflect his contemplation of life, death,
and the consequences of one's actions. These reflections touch on
religious themes, considering the potential consequences of suicide
and the uncertainties of the afterlife. The play's exploration of
existential themes, such as the nature of existence, purpose, and the
inevitability of death, resonates with broader philosophical and
religious considerations.

18 - politics Claudius joins in various political machinations to secure and

maintain his role. He manipulates courtiers like Polonius. Hamlet's
internal conflict and resistance to Claudius's rule are inherently
political. His quest for revenge against Claudius is a reaction to the
political injustice he perceives in his uncle's ascension to the throne.
The famous line "Something is rotten in the state of Denmark"
reflects an existential and political crisis within the country. The
corruption and deceit at the heart of the court symbolise a broader
political decay.
19 - power Power and ambition are central themes in "Hamlet," influencing the
and ambition actions and fates of the characters. King Claudius's ambition drives
the central conflict of the play. He kills his brother, King Hamlet, to
take the throne and marry Queen Gertrude. Claudius's ambition is
filled by a desire for power and monarchy. The character of
Fortinbras, Prince of Norway, represents political ambition. He
reclaim lands lost by his father in battle, emphasising the theme of
political power and ambition. Hamlet's quest for revenge against
Claudius is driven by a desire to restore justice and regain power for
his father's spirit. The theme of revenge is closely linked to power
dynamics within the Danish court. The play examines how the
search of power can corrupt individuals and societies, leading to
tragic outcomes.

20 - women The female characters play significant roles in the progress of the
plot. Queen Gertrude is Hamlet's mother and the wife of King
Claudius. Her character is complex and often ambiguous. Gertrude's
marriage to Claudius after the death of King Hamlet raises questions
about her loyalty and contributes to Hamlet's emotional troubles.
Gertrude's character is marked by political astuteness and a certain
degree of ambiguity regarding her knowledge of Claudius's actions.
Ophelia is the daughter of Polonius and the love interest of Hamlet.
Her character descends into madness and dies drowning. Ophelia
becomes a symbol of innocence and victimhood, influenced by the
political machinations surrounding her. Her madness is often
attributed to the conflicting demands placed upon her by her family
and the court. The play reflects the patriarchal norms of its time.
The women are often defined in relation to the male characters, and
their agency is limited by the societal expectations and the power
dynamics at play in the Danish court.

21 appearance The theme of appearance vs reality is a pervasive and crucial

and reality element of "Hamlet." Throughout the play, characters and situations
are not what they seem, and the contrast between appearance and
reality contributes to the complexity of the narrative. The ghost
initially appears as a supernatural entity seeking revenge for his
murder, but the true nature of the ghost is ambiguous. Hamlet fake
madness, King Claudius appears to be a competent and charming
ruler, but his outward demeanour hides a darker reality. The
repeated phrase "Something is rotten in the state of Denmark"
underscores the contrast between the outward appearance of
stability and the underlying corruption and decay within the
kingdom.

22 - love Romantic relationship: Hamlet's love for Ophelia is complicated by

the political intrigues and his internal struggles. Maternal love:
Hamlet is disturbed by his mother's quick remarriage to Claudius
after his father’s death. This complicates Hamlet's feelings toward
Gertrude. Paternal love: Polonius is concerned about the well-being
of his children, Ophelia and Laertes. However, his attempts to
control and manipulate their lives contribute to their tragic fates.
Friendship: Hamlet and Horatio is a positive aspect of love. Horatio
is loyal, their bond contrasts with the more troubled relationships in
the play. Love in "Hamlet" is often intertwined with darker elements,
reflecting the tragic nature of the play.
23 - Family The relationship between Hamlet and his deceased father, King
relationship Hamlet, sets the stage for the entire play. Hamlet's deep love and
respect for his father drive him to seek revenge for the king's
murder. Hamlet's relationship with his mother, Queen Gertrude, is
strained and complicated. He is deeply disturbed by her quick
marriage to his uncle, Claudius, following King Hamlet's death. The
relationship between Ophelia and her father, Polonius, is
characterised by paternal control and manipulation. Polonius uses
Ophelia as bait to spy on Hamlet, contributing to her tragic descent
into madness. Laertes, like Ophelia, has a familial connection with
Polonius.

24 - identity The play presents a complex reflection on identity, delving into the
multifaceted nature of who we are and how we perceive ourselves
and others.
Hamlet's identity is a central element of the plot. The protagonist
questions his own identity in relation to the roles of prince, son, and
individual. His internal conflict, expressed in soliloquies like the
famous "To be or not to be," reflects a profound search for
authenticity and meaning.
Other characters, such as Ophelia, Polonius, and Laertes, are also
involved in a journey of self-discovery and identity definition. Their
internal and external relationships contribute to defining who they
are and how they relate to the surrounding world. Overall, "Hamlet"
offers a profound meditation on identity, exploring the challenges
and complexities associated with discovering who we are in the
context of interpersonal relationships, societal expectations, and the
very nature of human existence.

25 - symbols Some symbols in Hamlet: The ghost of King Hamlet serves as a

powerful symbol. It represents both the unsettled spirit seeking
revenge and the corruption within the Danish court. The appearance
of the ghost propels the plot and underscores themes of justice and
moral decay. The skull of Yorick, the court jester, becomes a symbol
of mortality and the inevitability of death. Hamlet reflects on the
skull, contemplating the transience of life and the equalising force of
death. These symbols contribute to the play's depth and offer layers
of interpretation, allowing audiences to engage with the themes of
"Hamlet" on multiple levels. Shakespeare's use of symbolism adds
richness and complexity to the exploration of revenge, mortality,
and the human condition.

26 - afterlife The play opens with the appearance of the ghost of King Hamlet,
who reveals he was murdered by his brother, Claudius. The presence
of the ghost raises questions about the nature of the afterlife. The
ghost suggests being in a state of purgatory, a temporary dimension
of punishment or purification before entering heaven. This
introduces the theme of divine justice and poses questions about the
consequences of actions in the afterlife. Hamlet's contemplation of
suicide, expressed in the famous soliloquy "To be or not to be,"
includes reflections on the afterlife. The idea that death might lead
to a worse state than life adds complexity to his internal conflict.
Various symbols and metaphors in the play, such as Yorick's skull,
the graves, and Hamlet's reflections on mortality, contribute to the
 broader exploration of the afterlife and the nature of human
existence.

27 - message "Hamlet" is a complex play with multiple themes and messages. The
desire for revenge, justice, madness and sanity, moral corruption,
existential reflections on life and death, betrayal and deceit, the
complexity of human nature, fate and free will, family relationships,
theatricality and performance, tragedy, and redemption—all these
elements emerge within the fabric of the plot. "Hamlet" challenges
categorical simplicity, offering a profound insight into the intricate
dynamics of the human soul and the human condition. The play
remains a timeless masterpiece, captivating for its depth and the
variety of themes it encompasses.

28 - Delay The theme of delay is a central and complex aspect of William

(rimandare) Shakespeare's "Hamlet." Hamlet's hesitancy and reluctance to take
immediate action against his uncle, King Claudius, form a crucial
component of the play's plot. Several factors contribute to Hamlet's
delay in seeking revenge for his father's murder: Uncertainty and
Doubt, Moral Contemplation, Fear of Divine Consequences, Political
Realities, Hamlet's Complex Character. Ultimately, Hamlet's delay
becomes a central tragic flaw in his character. The consequences of
his hesitation lead to a series of events that culminate in a tragic and
fatal conclusion for many characters in the play. The theme of delay
adds depth to the exploration of revenge, morality, and the
complexities of the human psyche in "Hamlet."

29 - Hamlet’s In his soliloquy Hamlet explores two fundamental issues: life and
soliloquy death on the one hand, action and inaction on the other. His
argument starts from the famous question 'to be or not to be' and he
comes to the conclusion that men choose to live because they don't
know what may come after death. This thought prevents them from
committing suicide and makes them bear all the troubles typical of
life, such as the passing of time, the oppression of the powerful or
injustice. Action is the result of a healthy resolution, inaction the
result of the weakness caused by reflection Hamlet's philosophical
considerations on men's behaviour are based on personal
experience; his tendency to analyse facts prevents direct action
which means, in his case, avenging his father's death.