"I am but mad north-north-west: when the wind is southerly I know a hawk from a handsaw- (2.2.338-9). This is a classic example of the "wild and whirling words- (1.5.133) with which Hamlet hopes to persuade people to believe that he is mad. These words, however, prove that beneath his "antic disposition,"" Hamlet is very sane indeed. Hamlet is saying that ... like a camel, then a weasel and finally a whale, and in a very sane aside, he then comments that "They fool me to the top of my bent- (3.2.337-8). Although he appears to have lost touch with reality, he keeps reminding us that he is not...

• Word Count: 1834
• Approx Pages: 7
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

... , or otherwise destroyed, ruined, or captured; not strong." Using this definition, I would have to say by no means was Hamlet a weak character in the Shakespearean play. The figurative definition for the word "strong" is, "having or showing moral or mental force; a strong mind." Another definition is, "not easily influenced or changed; firm." Assuming these ... of his manhood was stripped from him. He no longer had the chance to talk about girls with his father, such as Ophelia. He was left with no real male role model in his life. Hamlet's character now had to deal with the many questio...

• Word Count: 1433
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: High School

... thing to do first, and then take action. If Hamlet had taken action at the first opportunity and killed Claudius while he was praying, Claudius" soul would have gone to Heaven. Obviously Hamlet does not want this to happen. He also faces the problem of requiring proof that Claudius is the murderer, and refuses to take revenge until his has proof. This is why ... head, his stockings foul"d". This appearance could also be seen as a sign of Hamlet's madness. Perhaps Hamlet's state of madness provided Hamlet with the ability he required to kill his uncle, Claudius. Hamlet's relationship wit...

• Word Count: 2360
• Approx Pages: 9
• Grade Level: High School