In many works of literature, an individual's encounter with death

or destruction ultimately leads to the individual's affirmation of the dignity and worth of human life. What does this quote means and how does this quote relates to Hamlet by William Shakespeare. I have to write a critical lens using this quote.

We too often do not realize what we have, until we lose (or almost lose) it.

Does that help?

The quote you mentioned suggests that when a person experiences death or destruction, they come to appreciate and recognize the value of human life. This implies that through facing the harsh realities of mortality or devastation, individuals often gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the inherent dignity and worth of human existence.

Now, to apply this quote to Hamlet by William Shakespeare, you can focus on the character of Prince Hamlet himself. In the play, Hamlet is confronted with death and destruction on multiple levels. He is grieving over the death of his father, King Hamlet, who was murdered by his own brother, Claudius. Additionally, Hamlet is tormented by the knowledge that his mother, Queen Gertrude, has quickly remarried Claudius, thus seeming to disregard the importance of his father's life.

Through these encounters with death and destruction, Hamlet undergoes a transformative journey. He becomes consumed by thoughts of mortality, constantly contemplating the value of life and the meaning of existence. This contemplation leads to his famous soliloquy, "To be, or not to be," where he ponders the moral implications of living and dying.

Ultimately, Hamlet's encounters with death and destruction prompt him to question the worth and dignity of human life. This introspection leads him to recognize the importance of seeking justice for his father's murder and to contemplate the consequences of his actions on others. In the end, despite the tragedy and loss, Hamlet's journey affirms the significance and value of human life.

To form a critical lens essay based on this quote, you can analyze how Hamlet's encounters with death and destruction shape his understanding of the dignity and worth of human life. You can discuss the thematic elements of mortality, revenge, and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters in the play. Additionally, you can explore how Hamlet's emotional journey reflects the broader human experience of grappling with our mortality and the fragility of life.