Hamlet's Reaction to Ophelia's Death

Reread the lines in which Hamlet learns of Ophelia's death: 5.1.227-268. What do you make of Hamlet's reaction to Ophelia's death? Does his reaction surprise you? Is there some competition/conflict between Laertes and Hamlet here? Does Hamlet have a right to this grief? Why or why not?

Hamlet's reaction to Ophelia's death does not surprise me. Throughout the book, he never displayed his true feelings for her in a way that was clear and concise. This led me to believe that he had some feelings for her. If he did not have any feelings, he would not have pretended so much. I would have been much more surprised if Hamlet was not upset whatsoever over Ophelia's death. I also do not believe that he is playing a game when he is sad. Hamlet is not trying to pretend or mask his feelings. This moment is the one true reflection of his feelings. People react strongly to situations like death. Hamlet is not prepared for this, so he cannot have his emotions changed. Instead, what he feels comes out naturally. This is why I believe, out of the entire book, Hamlet is most honest with everyone, and himself, in this one scene.

Hamlet and the Skulls

What is the significance of Hamlet's pondering the skulls in the graveyard (one of the most famous images from the play)? What does he take away from this?

Dear Based God,

Hamlet learns a lot for himself from looking at and examining the skulls. During this moment, he has a realization about life. All people become dust. No matter what significance they may have while alive, everyone is equal when they die. He ponders how the great people of their times will mean nothing in the future. For example, Alexander and Caesar are two of the people that he mentions. Their bodies will decompose and be nothing. In this way, for Hamlet, life does not mean anything. All significance of his life will be lost after death. This is how Hamlet views the world.

Love,
Evan and Pat

Ophelia Questions

How do you characterize Ophelia? How would Hamlet characterize Ophelia? Do you agree with him? What does she bring to the unfolding of the story? What function or purpose does she serve? What lines from the text reveal her character?

Ophelia seems very submissive. She does whatever she is told to do. For example, Polonius and Laertes tell her how to act around and respond to Hamlet. She simply replies, "I shall obey, my Lord" (1.3.135). Not once in the conversation does she mention how she feels or what she wants from him. It is not focused on her feelings, but rather what her father and brother feel. She never tries to question this behavior. Instead, she accepts it and goes along with it. If my parents or brother ever tried to tell me what to do with other people, I would become angry and get in a fight with them. I would not stand for them trying to control my life. However, Ophelia allows this to happen with no resistance whatsoever. I am not sure if this is a reflection of her or of women in general during this time period. Ophelia could be a symbol for how life was when this play took place.