This particular act helped build the plot of the story. At this point of the story we notice that this play has reached the climax of the story. However it is made known to us that Claudius is actually guilty of the crime. This is found out from Hamlets crafty set up to reveal the truth. It isn't until this point in the play that the reader is able to distinguish the real truth from lie. We were persuaded to believe that Hamlets father was murdered by the ghost of his father. As this act closes we recognizes that Hamlet gains some stability to the situation and thus can proceed towards the true revenge of the wrong doer.
Since this act was hit by the highlight of Claudius and what was revealed, I will discuss him as a character. Surprisingly, this part of the play offers a witness of Claudius actually admitting to the wrong while praying. It is interesting the front that he puts up around other people as calm and collected. But much on the contrary we recognize that he is actually lacking confidence as the play continues. Not only does it seem as though he is losing confidence, but that he is somewhat depressed deep inside himself. The conflict in this scene occurs when Hamlet walks in on Claudius praying, but Hamlet turns down killing him then because he felt as though that would be "stabbing a man in the back" or killing a man unarmed. His morals and values weighed out his decisions once again.
As this act developed it is evident that the theme of revenge formed a foundation as well. Even though Hamlet decided to withdraw at the perfect moment to seek revenge and kill Claudius, we recognize that he still does not let go of the ultimate revenge.
You make a great point in describing how Claudius starts to loose confidence in his actions throughout this Act of the play. This is indeed what is happening, he is starting to understand that his deeds have not gone unnoticed. I think this tends to happen to the villain of a story, it seems to be what causes the character to have to choose between their own right and wrong; to admit their wrongdoing and serve their consequences or tell more lies or commit more murders and, in a sense, become more and more villainous in order to hide their wrongdoings.
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree that Claudius was losing his confidence. He seemed to over estimate his ability to handle the overwhelming situation he was put in, and eventually it showed.
ReplyDeleteBrittany ,
ReplyDeleteI like how you brought up Hamlet's morals, and how it stopped him from literally stabbing Claudius in the back while he was praying. I also agree that this act was about revenge, it is clearly brought up many times throughout this act.
Claudius does put on a good front around others. We now know that he killed his own brother, and can deceive others to trust him which is why he is very dangerous. We also know that he is beginning to feel guilt for what he has done, and fear for his own life and salvation which was why he was praying for forgiveness.
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