How does Shakespeare present changing state of mind in Hamlet’s soliloquies?
Hamlet’s state of mind is relentlessly changing as the play progresses. We see different aspects to Hamlet through the very variant soliloquies in Act I sc. ii; Act I sc. v and Act III sc. i.
Hamlet’s first soliloquy juxtaposes between him and Claudius’ speech. Hamlet’s first soliloquies stand in direct opposition to Claudius’ speeches as the style, language and structure is different. He speaks in black verses and in a perfect iambic pentameter: “Though yet of Hamlet our dear brother’s death.” Claudius’s speech is well construct. He is well prepared and his speech is divided into three major topics; war, marriage and death. Shakespeare inserts them close together which allow the audience to compare the difference between Hamlet’s state of mind and Claudius’. His state of mind can be seen as different to a cunning murderer such as Claudius who is able to remain calm when delivering a speech. Whereas Hamlet is unable to remain settle as he delivers his soliloquies.
The difference between the soliloquies is Hamlet’s frustration levels decrease as the play progresses. It is seen through the calmer and relaxed tone Hamlet speaks in the third soliloquy whereas the first two soliloquies are spoken in an acrimonious tone. His state of mind changes from an aggressive, inconsiderate character to become more passive and philosophical person. The philosophical side to Hamlet is seen through his final soliloquy in Act III sc. I as Hamlet talks about death and life and he discusses the point of existence.
Act i, Scene ii contains Hamlet’s first soliloquy. Here Hamlet reflects and recalls all that has happened and the emotions the events have cause. Hamlet discusses serious matters such as, “self-slaughter” and the sinful “hasty” marriage between his mother and Claudius. Shakespeare presents Hamlet potentially morally because he is the protagonist of the play. Hamlet is presented this way...