Key Quotations (OCR A-Level English Literature): Revision Notes
Key Quotations
Understanding quotations in your exam
When answering questions about Hamlet, remember that the assessment objectives ask you to use textual references, which includes quotations. However, this doesn't mean you must always use direct quotes. You can also demonstrate your knowledge through:
- Summarising key moments
- Paraphrasing dialogue
- Referencing single words or phrases
- Describing plot events
The most important thing is to develop a strong understanding of the text itself, rather than simply memorising quotations. This deeper knowledge will help you select the most relevant references for any exam question.
If you do choose to revise quotations, organising them by character or theme is an effective approach. Below, you'll find key quotations grouped by the following themes in Hamlet:
- Appearance versus reality
- Order and disorder
- Mortality and decay
- Sex and love
- Revenge
Appearance versus reality
The theme of appearance versus reality runs throughout Hamlet, as characters struggle to distinguish truth from deception. Many key figures present false facades, creating a world where nothing is quite as it seems.
This above all: to thine own self be true
Speaker: Polonius (Act I, Scene III)
Context: Polonius offers this advice to his son Laertes as he prepares to leave for France.
Analysis:
This quotation is deeply ironic. Polonius advises Laertes to maintain his integrity and be true to himself, yet Polonius himself is often deceitful throughout the play. This contradiction highlights the gap between what characters say and what they actually do.
The advice touches on the tension between individualism and conformity. In a world full of social expectations and pressures, Polonius suggests that staying true to oneself is of paramount importance. However, his own behaviour contradicts this wisdom, showing how difficult it can be to maintain authenticity.
You might contrast Laertes following this advice with Hamlet's own struggle to find his true self and his delay in taking action against Claudius.
Exam tip: This quotation demonstrates dramatic irony, a useful technique to discuss when exploring characterisation and theme.
Seems, Madam? Nay, it is. I know not 'seems'
Speaker: Hamlet (Act I, Scene II)
Context: Hamlet responds to his mother Gertrude, who has questioned why his father's death affects him so deeply.
Analysis:
Hamlet insists that his grief is genuine and deeply felt, not merely an outward appearance or performance. He draws a clear distinction between seeming to grieve and actually experiencing grief.
Shakespeare uses antithesis here by repeating the word seems and then denying its validity. This emphasises the conflict between appearance and reality that defines much of the play. Hamlet's refusal to accept mere appearances reveals his contemplative nature and scepticism about the world around him.
This quotation also highlights Hamlet's melancholy and foreshadows his struggles with authenticity. Throughout the play, he will question the genuineness of people and events around him, never quite certain what is real.
Key concept: Antithesis is when contrasting ideas are placed together to create emphasis, often revealing deeper meaning.
The lady doth protest too much, methinks
Speaker: Queen Gertrude (Act III, Scene II)
Context: Gertrude makes this comment whilst watching a performance within the play, where a character vehemently declares her love and fidelity to her husband.
Analysis:
This quotation is heavily ironic. Gertrude herself is entangled in deception and intrigue, having quickly remarried after her husband's death. Yet she comments on the insincerity of the queen character in the play-within-a-play, whose protestations of love seem excessive.
Gertrude may be recognising a parallel between the play's character and her own situation, realising that the queen is trying too hard to convince others of her innocence. Alternatively, she might be subconsciously acknowledging her own guilt regarding her hasty marriage to Claudius after King Hamlet's death.
This moment explores truth and lies, sincerity and deceit. When someone protests their innocence or love too vigorously, it often suggests the opposite is true.
Learning aid: The phrase the lady doth protest too much has become a common expression in English, used when someone's denial seems suspiciously strong.
Order and disorder
Hamlet depicts a world where the established order of the Danish court has been disrupted by treachery, deception and moral decay. Shakespeare explores how this disorder affects everyone in the kingdom.
Something is rotten in the state of Denmark
Speaker: Marcellus (Act I, Scene IV)
Context: Marcellus speaks this line to Horatio (Hamlet's friend) after they both witness the ghost of King Hamlet walking the castle grounds.
Analysis:
This quotation sets a foreboding and ominous tone, suggesting that something is seriously wrong within Denmark. The phrase foreshadows the tragedy and turmoil that will unfold throughout the play.
The metaphor of something being rotten compares the state to a decaying body, implying that corruption has infiltrated the highest levels of power. Just as rot spreads through organic matter, moral corruption is spreading through Denmark's political system.
Marcellus's comment reflects suspicions about the legitimacy of Claudius's rule and the circumstances surrounding the succession. On the surface, Denmark may appear stable and prosperous, but beneath this facade lies deception, treachery and disorder.
Key vocabulary: A metaphor is a figure of speech that describes something by comparing it to something else, without using like or as.
O, speak to me no more; these words like daggers enter in mine ears
Speaker: Gertrude (Act I, Scene V)
Context: Queen Gertrude pleads with Hamlet to stop speaking because his words hint at the truth about Claudius's murder of King Hamlet.
Analysis:
The simile comparing words to daggers conveys the disruptive and painful nature of truth. Gertrude is wounded by what Hamlet reveals, unable to bear hearing more.
This quotation shows that disorder exists not only in the external state but also within relationships and minds. Hamlet's quest for truth and justice creates disruption in the facade of order that Claudius has maintained, revealing the underlying chaos and corruption.
The strained relationship between Hamlet and Gertrude is also highlighted here. Hamlet's pursuit of truth directly conflicts with his mother's desire to avoid uncomfortable realities.
Exam tip: Consider how truth itself can be disruptive and create disorder, even when the disorder comes from revealing wrongdoing.
Mortality and decay
Hamlet explores the universal inevitability of death, both as a physical reality and as a philosophical concept. The play is saturated with images of decay and reflections on mortality.
To be or not to be, that is the question
Speaker: Hamlet (Act III, Scene I)
Context: This famous line comes from Hamlet's soliloquy in Act III, Scene I, where he contemplates existential questions, moral dilemmas, indecision, and the line between madness and sanity.
Analysis:
This quotation addresses the fundamental philosophical question of existence. Hamlet contemplates whether it is nobler to endure life's hardships and suffering, or to choose the unknown of death instead.
The quote captures the human dilemma of whether to continue living despite challenges, or to take one's own life to escape them. This internal struggle with existence defines Hamlet's character throughout the play.
Hamlet's contemplation also symbolises his indecision and procrastination, which are recurring themes. He reflects on the consequences of action versus inaction, finding himself paralysed by his inability to make decisions.
Additionally, this soliloquy connects to the theme of madness. Throughout the play, Hamlet's sanity is questioned, and his philosophical musings contribute to the perception that he may be losing his mind.
Key concept: Existential questions explore the nature of human existence, purpose and meaning in life.
Goodnight, sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest
Speaker: Horatio (Act V, Scene II)
Context: Horatio speaks this line upon witnessing Hamlet's death at the end of the play.
Analysis:
Horatio's words function as a eulogy for his close friend. By addressing Hamlet affectionately as sweet prince, he expresses his deep sorrow and grief at losing him.
The reference to flights of angels elevates Hamlet to a princely and noble status even in death, underscoring the tragedy of his demise. Despite all his struggles, flaws and delays, Hamlet is remembered as noble and worthy.
This quotation marks the resolution of the play's central conflict and its tragic conclusion. Hamlet's journey of self-discovery, revenge and inner turmoil has come to an end, and Horatio's words provide a sense of finality.
The words also prompt reflection on the transient nature of human life and the inevitability of death, reinforcing one of the play's central themes.
Learning aid: This eulogy shows how death brings resolution but also emphasises loss and the fragility of life.
Sex and love
Several characters in Hamlet are connected through sexual relationships, love or marriage. The theme of sex and love is exemplified through the dysfunctional romantic relationships that define these characters.
Frailty, thy name is woman!
Speaker: Hamlet (Act I, Scene II)
Context: Hamlet expresses his deep disillusionment and frustration with women, particularly in the context of his mother Queen Gertrude's behaviour.
Analysis:
Hamlet's words can be interpreted as reflecting a misogynistic view, suggesting that women are inherently weak or fickle. He accuses his mother Gertrude of being morally weak, viewing her hasty remarriage to Claudius as morally questionable.
However, Hamlet's expression of his mother's frailty can also be understood as reflective of his own internal conflict and sense of moral duty. He is torn between his love and loyalty to his mother and his duty to avenge his father's murder. This inner turmoil leads to his indecision, inaction and inability to reconcile his conflicting emotions.
The quotation reveals Hamlet's broader attitude towards women in the play, which affects his relationship with Ophelia as well as his mother.
Key vocabulary: Misogynistic means showing dislike, contempt or ingrained prejudice against women.
Exam tip: Consider whether Hamlet's views reflect Shakespeare's own attitudes or are presented critically to reveal character flaws.
Revenge
The theme of revenge drives much of Hamlet's plot, as the prince seeks to avenge his father's murder. However, this quest is complicated by deception, madness and moral uncertainty.
Though this be madness, yet there is method in't
Speaker: Polonius (Act II, Scene II)
Context: Polonius observes Hamlet's seemingly irrational behaviour, which includes erratic speech and actions.
Analysis:
The phrase there is method in't suggests that Polonius believes there is a deliberate plan or strategy behind Hamlet's madness. He suspects that Hamlet is feigning madness for a specific purpose rather than genuinely losing his mind.
This quotation connects to the broader themes of deception and appearance versus reality. Hamlet's feigned madness is just one example of the many layers of deception in the play, where characters often wear masks to hide their true intentions.
The quote also foreshadows how the play will unfold. Hamlet's feigned madness becomes a central element in his plan to uncover the truth about his father's murder and seek revenge against Claudius. It demonstrates Hamlet's ability to maintain his facade whilst pursuing a hidden agenda.
Learning aid: The phrase method in madness has become a common English expression, used to suggest that seemingly chaotic behaviour actually has a logical purpose.
Remember!
- Quotations are just one way to demonstrate knowledge; you can also use paraphrasing and references to plot events.
- Organising quotations by theme helps you understand how ideas connect across the play.
- Appearance versus reality is central to Hamlet, with characters constantly deceiving each other and themselves.
- The corruption in Denmark is described as something rotten, spreading through the state like decay.
- Hamlet's existential question To be or not to be explores the fundamental human struggle with life, death and purpose.
- The play presents complex, often dysfunctional relationships between characters, particularly regarding sex and love.
- Revenge drives the plot, but is complicated by Hamlet's feigned madness and genuine indecision.