hamlet quotes— madness (genuine)

Question 1

In the first soliloquy Act 1 Scene 2, Hamlet says he has lost faith in the world and sees little point in living, considers taking life but decides against because it’s a sin

Answer 1

“O that this too too solid flesh would melt/ Thaw and resolve itself into a dew”, “How weary, stale, flat and unprofitable/ Seem to me all the uses of this world!”

Question 2

Marcellus and Horatio overrule Hamlet’s orders to stay behind when the Ghost appears because they believe Hamlet not in his right mind

Answer 2

“Tis not fit thus to obey him”

Question 3

Hamlet struggling with his sanity is clear by treatment of the Ghost—particularly inappropriate if Hamlet believes spirit is dead father

Answer 3

“this fellow in the cellarage” , “old mole”

Question 4

Hamlet may be overwhelmed and on the verge of being driven mad by the responsibility of avenging father’s death, he believes world is…

Answer 4

“out of joint”

Question 5

Polonius is convinced Hamlet is insane upon hearing of his visit to Ophelia’s room, and may misinterpret reason for madness, correct about disordered mind of Prince

Answer 5

“the very ecstasy of love”

Question 6

Claudius fears Hamlet’s insanity and indicates longevity of odd behaviour, despite Hamlet’s announcement of putting on an…

Answer 6

“antic disposition”

Question 7

Claudius claims has Hamlet is so changed that he neither looks nor behaves way he used to, it’s hard to know what else is of cause bar the death of his father, what could have…

Answer 7

“put him/ So much from th’understanding of himself”

Question 8

Hamlet acts irrationally at Ophelia’s funeral, fighting with Laertes about who loved her more. Hamlet warns Laertes he is not hot-tempered

Answer 8

“Yet have I something in me dangerous/ Which let thy wiseness fear”

Question 9

Hamlet speaking of himself in third person reinforces idea Hamlet is mad

Answer 9

“His madness is poor Hamlet’s enemy”