Famous 'Hamlet' Quotes: Exploring Shakespeare's Masterpiece::ELET
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Famous 'Hamlet' Quotes: Exploring Shakespeare's Masterpiece

by Banana Flower 2023. 10. 4.
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Quote 1: "To be, or not to be, that is the question."

Meaning: This quote reflects Hamlet's contemplation of life and death. He is pondering the idea of existence and whether it is nobler to endure life's challenges or to end one's suffering through death.

Explanation: Hamlet delivers this soliloquy in Act 3, Scene 1. He is contemplating the nature of existence, the pain of life's troubles, and the fear of the unknown that comes with death. This quote encapsulates Hamlet's internal struggle and his philosophical musings.

 

Quote 2: "This above all: to thine own self be true."

Meaning: Polonius imparts this advice to his son, Laertes, before Laertes leaves for France. It emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's principles and moral values.

Explanation: Polonius advises Laertes to be authentic and uphold his integrity while navigating the world. This quote is often interpreted as a universal message about the significance of honesty and self-authenticity.

 

Quote 3: "Something is rotten in the state of Denmark."

Meaning: Marcellus says this line in Act 1, Scene 4, when the ghost of King Hamlet appears. It foreshadows the political and moral corruption within the Danish court.

Explanation: This quote highlights the underlying corruption and deception in the Danish court, symbolizing the troubled state of affairs in the kingdom.

 

Quote 4: "The lady doth protest too much, methinks."

Meaning: Queen Gertrude makes this remark during the play within the play, observing that the player queen's excessive declarations of love may indicate insincerity.

Explanation: This quote is often used to suggest that people who vehemently deny something may be trying to hide the truth. In the context of the play, it reflects Gertrude's suspicion about the player queen's words.

 

Quote 5: "There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy."

Meaning: Hamlet speaks these words to Horatio, acknowledging the mysteries and complexities of the universe that go beyond human understanding.

Explanation: Hamlet's statement reflects his belief in the unknown and the limitations of human knowledge. It is a reminder of the vastness and wonder of the world.

 

Quote 6: "Brevity is the soul of wit."

Meaning: Polonius says this line in Act 2, Scene 2, suggesting that concise speech is a sign of intelligence and cleverness.

Explanation: Polonius is known for his long-winded and verbose speeches, which often lack clarity. Here, he ironically praises brevity while speaking in a lengthy manner. The quote underscores the importance of clarity and succinctness in communication.

 

Quote 7: "Though this be madness, yet there is method in 't."

Meaning: Polonius speaks these words in Act 2, Scene 2, after Hamlet's erratic behavior. He believes there is a purpose or method behind Hamlet's madness.

Explanation: This quote acknowledges that Hamlet's actions may seem irrational, but they are part of a deliberate plan to uncover the truth about his father's death. It reflects the complexity of Hamlet's character and his strategies.

 

Quote 8: "The play's the thing wherein I'll catch the conscience of the king."

Meaning: Hamlet speaks this line in Act 2, Scene 2, revealing his plan to use a play to expose King Claudius's guilt in the murder of King Hamlet.

Explanation: Hamlet decides to stage a play that mirrors the circumstances of his father's murder. He believes that the king's reaction to the play will reveal his guilt. This quote demonstrates Hamlet's determination to uncover the truth and avenge his father's death.

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