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.