Hamlet - Act i.ii Flashcards
What is the Dramatic Significance of King’s speech in the beginning of Scene 2?
It is observed that King Claudius (formerly Hamlet’s uncle) is now King of Denmark.
He begins by mourning the death of his Brother Hamlet Sr. though he quickly changes to celebrating his marriage to his brothers wife, Gertrude. He also talks about the impending attack from Young Fortinbras as a chance to reclaim the territory his father lost.
This shows his sociopolitical manipulation skills, it establishes what Claudius’s character is like.
It introduces Hamlet’s grief and alienation. He was denied return to university and was left to grieve alone essentially. He dismisses it as unmanly and excessive which sets the stage for Hamlet’s sense of betrayal and internal conflict.
What is Dramatic significance of Hamlet’s significance in Scene 2 (line 130)?
Hamlet is discussing his feelings towards Claudius marrying his mom in the form of a soliloquy. He is upset that his mother couldn’t even wait so much as two months to wed her deceased husband’s brother. It was so fast she wore the same shoes to her husbands funerals that she wore to her wedding with Claudius.
He also compares the relationship as Incestuous because his Uncle is now his step-father which is weird.
This is significant because it sets the stage of Hamlet’s resentment towards Claudius and his mom, his grieving of his dad and eventually leads to his revenge plot against Claudius.
“But break, my heart, for I must hold my tongue”.
