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Hamlet Act 1 Scene 2 Analysis

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The scene begins with Gertrude sitting on her bed after Hamlet informs her explicitly that King Claudius, her new husband, was responsible for killing King Hamlet. She begins to process the news of Claudius’ evil actions and thinks through what should happen now. Hamlet has just left Gertrude’s bedroom dragging Polonius’s dead body.

As Gertrude looks down upon the bloodied floor, she is forced to believe and accept the truth that her son, her sweet Hamlet is a murderer, and thus capable of such a despicable act. The scene of devastation grabs her; it throws her into a state of panic and fear. Panic of what was to come, Hamlet’s madness, Ophelia’s sadness that was to wash over her and what of Hamlets accusations of Claudius? Do I believe …show more content…

Has Hamlet told Horatio? It is possible, is it not? Horatio is Hamlet’s confidante at worse, most treasured friend at best. Poor Hamlet carrying such sorrow around, to share such a load may be a relief to his soul. I must now put my intentions and energy into protecting my son from Claudius, murderous …show more content…

Time had passed since she had witnessed the murder however its haunting memory would never leave Gertrude. A son and husband had committed murder and another had met their fate as an unknowing victim. Certainly a lion’s share of bloodshed for one family, she thinks to herself. Her heart quickened as she once again feels the overwhelming weight of emotions crash over her. Guilt, loss, fear, sadness, despair, hopelessness and yet also anger. Even as Gertrude understands Hamlets rage, has he the right to talk to me in such a manner, “Low-life, nosy, a busy body fool, and to question my importance, to question the softness of my heart and announce my lifestyle as evil. Oh Hamlet you break my heart in two and expose my sinful ways. I will change dear Hamlet, Gertrude

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