Lao Tzu And Confucius Analysis

As long as humans have roamed the planet, people have hid behind false pretenses pretending to be someone they are not. Whether or not these layers convey the reality of human nature, people still take it upon themselves to unmask those hiding behind a facade. In 500 B.C.E, ancient Chinese philosophers Lao Tzu and Confucius had differing opinions, as to the truth of human nature. Lao Tzu argued that there is a inner truth and to find the correct path to follow in life, one must find and understand their inner self. Confucius’ philosophy differs, stating that a person must be free flowing and follow the role society expects. These ideas evolved over years, especially during the Renaissance when humanism became a commonly explored topic. William

Hamlet begins his unmasking with Polonius. In the library, Hamlet behaves like a mad man, making snide comments about Polonius and his daughter. Doubting the honesty of Hamlet’s madness, Polonius remarks, “Though this be madness, yet there is method in’t” suspecting that Hamlet is just putting up a false front (2.2.223-224). It's ironic that he's faking his madness, and doing the exact thing that he's trying to dismantle. However the madness he portrays not only shows his dedication towards avenging his father's supposed murder but also reveals his what he most desires- justice. Hamlet then comes face to face with his ‘friends’,, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, who have been told to watch after him by Claudius and Gertrude. Since what Claudius seems to value the most is his power, all his actions her backed by his motive of keeping his power. According to the ghost, Claudius is able to gain the power he so much desires by murdering Hamlet Sr. and seducing Gertrude. Though Claudius is unwilling to give up his newly gained power, he does feel some sort of remorse. When Polonius persuades Ophelia to deceive Hamlet by pretending to be alone reading the bible, guilts consumes Claudius. Polonius says that people hide their evil deeds through their devotion to God just like Ophelia will be doing by pretending to read the bible. Claudius comments to himself, “Oh, ’tis too true!/ How smart a lash that speech doth give my conscience!/ The harlot’s cheek, beautied with plastering art/ Is not more ugly to the thing that helps it/ Than is my deed to my most painted word/ O heavy burden!” (3.1.48-62). At the moment, Claudius does feel some remorse for all the bad, but his actions speak louder than words. Instead of stopping the feud between him and Hamlet right now, he continues it no matter the stakes. While Claudius seems more transparent with his intentions, enabling an