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"Hamlet's madness, whether genuine or not, adds to the fascination of his character for the audience." Discuss this statement, supporting your answer with suitable reference to the play, Hamlet. - Leaving Cert English - Question (i) - 2012
Question (i)
"Hamlet's madness, whether genuine or not, adds to the fascination of his character for the audience." Discuss this statement, supporting your answer with suitable... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:"Hamlet's madness, whether genuine or not, adds to the fascination of his character for the audience." Discuss this statement, supporting your answer with suitable reference to the play, Hamlet. - Leaving Cert English - Question (i) - 2012
Step 1
Discuss Hamlet's Madness and its Fascination
Answer
Hamlet's madness is a central theme in the play that captivates the audience. It is essential to explore whether his madness is genuine or feigned. The complexity of his character, with its layers of anguish, introspection, and existential dread, creates an enigmatic persona that intrigues viewers. Hamlet's volatility adds depth to his character, making him relatable yet unpredictable.
Signs of Hamlet's mental state, stemming from his father's death and his mother's hasty remarriage, compel the audience to empathize with him. The question of whether his madness is a strategic façade opens up a discussion about his motives, showcasing his intellect in manipulating those around him. This oscillation between sanity and lunacy contributes to the fascination his character holds.
Step 2
Reference Compelling Scenes
Answer
Moreover, compelling scenes throughout the play illustrate Hamlet's struggles with his sanity. His erratic behavior, such as the famous 'play within a play' scene, provides a platform for him to express his internal conflict while also serving as a commentary on the deception surrounding him.
His interactions with other characters, such as Ophelia and Gertrude, further highlight how his madness affects their perceptions and actions, making the audience question the reliability of his mental state.
Step 3
Engaging Dialogues and Soliloquies
Answer
The rich soliloquies penned by Shakespeare delve into Hamlet's psyche, offering an intimate glimpse into his thoughts. For instance, his reflective soliloquy 'To be or not to be' presents profound philosophical inquiries about existence and the human condition. These introspective moments engage the audience deeply, prompting them to contemplate their own understanding of madness and morality.
In summary, whether genuine or feigned, Hamlet's madness constitutes a crucial aspect of his character, enhancing the fascination it generates among the audience.