Something is rotten in the state of Denmark. (I.iv.90)

Using two different literary devices, prove or refute the quotation above.

Please understand that no one here will do your work for you. However, we will be happy to read over whatever you come up with and make suggestions and/or corrections.

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Here's the best website I've found to help students read Shakespeare's plays:

http://nfs.sparknotes.com/
Click on the title of the play you want, then click on the act and scene. You'll find original Shakespearean language on the left and a modern-day "translation" on the right.

Here are several other really good websites about Shakespeare and his works and his times. Be sure to add ALL THESE to your favorites so you can find them again.

http://shakespeare.palomar.edu/

http://www.shakespeare-online.com/

http://www.bardweb.net/

http://www.enotes.com/william-shakespeare/

http://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/

And here are some magnificent websites to help you with literary terms:

http://www.tnellen.com/cybereng/lit_terms/

http://www.tnellen.com/cybereng/lit_terms/terms/

(Broken Link Removed)

http://www.uncp.edu/home/canada/work/allam/general/glossary.htm

To prove or refute the quotation "Something is rotten in the state of Denmark" from Shakespeare's play Hamlet, you can analyze it using two different literary devices: metaphor and foreshadowing.

1) Metaphor: In this quotation, Shakespeare uses a metaphor to suggest that there is corruption or moral decay in Denmark. To prove this, you can examine examples of corruption and moral degradation throughout the play. Look for instances where characters exhibit dishonesty, betrayal, or immoral behavior, or where institutions like the court or the monarchy are shown to be corrupt. For instance, Claudius, the current king of Denmark, murders his own brother to seize the throne, which is a clear example of moral decay. Additionally, the manipulation and deceit that occur within the royal court, as well as the conflicts and conspiracies that arise, further reinforce the idea that something is rotten in Denmark.

2) Foreshadowing: Another literary device to consider is foreshadowing. Through foreshadowing, the quotation suggests that the state of Denmark will face turmoil and upheaval. To prove this, you can look for events in the play that forecast future chaos or disaster. For instance, the appearance of the ghost of Hamlet's father at the beginning of the play foreshadows the inevitable uncovering of the truth and the ensuing consequences. Furthermore, the numerous references to decay, death, and disease throughout the play serve as subtle indications that the state of Denmark is on a destructive path.

When analyzing these two literary devices in Hamlet, you will find substantial evidence that supports the validity of the quotation "Something is rotten in the state of Denmark." The corruption, moral decay, and foreshadowed chaos within the play suggest that Shakespeare wanted to portray a deeply flawed and troubled society.