Examples Of Manic Depression In Hamlet

To be depressed or not to be depressed, that is the question. From one of the most famous tragic plays, Hamlet, by William Shakespeare. The protagonist shows many signs of depression stages. A majority of readers would argue that Hamlet is just acting at some point, and one might think that there are numerous indications that he was in fact mad. Hamlet had revealed many symptoms of depression, which appear to be a psychological disorder called manic depression. Depression can affect thoughts, feelings, behavior and even physical appearance. It is also known as mental disturbance. He is the type of person who remains in the past, while others move on. Hamlet is consumed by his own thoughts which is his tragic flaw. Hamlet became unstable due

Ophelia's clear mind is worsening as she is around Hamlet's madness. Hamlet is returning to a more embarrassingly baby-like mind, when linking Gertrude with Ophelia. The prince is subconsciously trying to defend himself against his unresolved needs towards his mother. However, when King Hamlet died and Gertrude remarries. Hamlet's fear and disgust with his mother is transmitted to Ophelia, causing Hamlet to completely reject her, which was the start of Ophelia’s own sanity. Hamlet’s break up with Ophelia becomes one cause of depression. Hamlet’s encounter with Ophelia becomes reflective of having a poor memory, which is a symptom of mania where he does not think clearly, nor care about what he says to her. For instance, when Hamlet becomes nearly physically abusive with Ophelia,as she attempts to return his gifts, “No, not I/ I never gave you ought,” (3.1.104-105). Ophelia was then convinced that Hamlet had gone insane, because of his lack of memory and poor recollection. He refers to her as a good girl gone bad. Ophelia can also be portray as another Hamlet, who was being used by not only her father but also Hamlet. As for Ophelia's song, she talked about a promise that Hamlet had made. He has left her for no obvious reason. Hamlet made possible claims of love and marriage to Ophelia. Breaking serious promises caused Ophelia’s depression. It is likely that Ophelia has gone nuts upon Hamlet's disgusting and disintegrated promises. Hamlet had broken both her heart and her mind. Based on an article, “ Women were approximately three times more likely than men to experience major depression in response to any stressful life event” (Maciejewski 596; vol.31 no.4). Finding herself lost in a world of patriarchy, Ophelia chooses to end her own life. Hamlet and Ophelia’s connections lead them both to be depressed. Fuelled