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The Importance Of Death In Hamlet

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Hamlet’s attitude toward death changes throughout the play from first not understanding to ultimately coming to terms with death. When Hamlet is first introduced, he is very angry and troubled because of the recent passing of his father, as well as the new marriage his mother has entered. Based off of Hamlet’s actions and attitudes towards others it is apparent that he is having an internal conflict with the nature of his father’s murder and revenge. However, many characters write off Hamlet’s aggression as madness caused by various other reasons. The audience acts as an omniscient being when watching Hamlet because they know all of the truths, such as Hamlet’s obsession with the Ghost. The characters within the play don’t all know that there is a Ghost roaming the halls of the castle; therefore they cannot fully understand Hamlet’s madness.
Hamlet’s changing in perspective on death occurred because he begins to see death as an outlet. At times throughout the play Hamlet does view life as pointless and it can be observed that many of his actions are from trying to find his role or purpose in life. In Act 3 Hamlet contemplates death and speaks about death very bluntly to his peers. For example, the famous quote “to be or not to be” (III.i. 60) is Hamlet questioning whether it is better to be alive or dead. However, Hamlet does continue on and begins to question what the after life will be like, which shows a symbol of doubt. Hamlet then states “ Thus conscience does make

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