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Examples Of Hamlet's Antisposition

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Hamlet's "antic disposition" is one of the most debated and analyzed aspects of the play. It refers to the peculiar behavior of Hamlet, where he pretends to be mad in order to deceive others. The question of whether Hamlet's madness is real or feigned has been a source of controversy among scholars for centuries. This essay argues that Hamlet's "antic disposition" is a deliberate strategy that he employs to achieve his ultimate goal of revenge. Hamlet's decision to act as if he is mad is rooted in his desire to avenge his father's murder. As he tells Horatio, he plans to "put an antic disposition on" (1.5.173) in order to confuse his enemies and gather information. By pretending to be insane, Hamlet hopes to lure his uncle, who he believes …show more content…

He knows that he is under constant surveillance and that any move he makes could be reported to Claudius. By feigning madness, he is able to justify his strange behavior and avoid arousing suspicion. This is evident in his conversation with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, where he uses his madness as a shield to avoid answering their questions. However, despite the fact that Hamlet's madness is a deliberate ploy, there are moments in the play where it seems to be genuine. For example, his behavior towards Ophelia is erratic and unpredictable, and his soliloquies are filled with existential despair. These moments of genuine madness have led some scholars to argue that Hamlet's "antic disposition" is a symptom of a deeper psychological disturbance. Hamlet's madness is not only a cover for his true motives but also a way for him to express his frustration with the corrupt society around him. In Act II, Scene II, he tells Rosencrantz and Guildenstern that "I am but mad north-north-west: when the wind is southerly, I know a hawk from a handsaw" (2.2.378-379). Hamlet's madness is not completely out of control but rather a carefully crafted act that allows him to manipulate those around

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