What's so significant with the phrase "Who are they?" It's overused in the play and I don't know why they keep repeating it. I know some of the characters have trust issues, but I'd like a detailed explanation as to why.
Thanks in advance.
You are correct, it is overused, and I have never noticed it. Perhaps it is used that way to heighten one of Shakespearé's themes: appearance vs reality.
Also keep in mind the political and military threads running through this play:
~~It starts out with references to making weapons round the clock and getting ready for war. This is because Hamlet's father (Hamlet the King, now dead) had killed Fortinbras's father, who had been King of Norway, and thereby Denmark had the right to take all of Norway to add to his own lands.
~~But then Hamlet the King died (was murdered, as we learn), and Claudius (Hamlet's uncle, now King of Denmark and presumably Norway, too) must now defend all his lands against the son Fortinbras, who has gathered a large army of young men from Norway who want their lands back.
Is that confusing enough?
An unasked question (but undoubtedly thought of by many readers) is why Hamlet did not inherit his father's crown. Why did Hamlet's uncle (Claudius) become king instead?
There is also the section in the play which is termed "a play within a play" during which Hamlet hopes to unmask his mother's and uncle's knowledge of his father's death/murder.
At the end of the play, after all the main characters have been killed off, only Horatio and Fortinbras are left -- Horatio, to tell Hamlet's story; Fortinbras, to assume the monarchy of both Denmark and Norway.
This whole plot is very "twisty and turny"! And there is much distrust deceit all around, in many more places than I've named above.
It's a fun play to analyze because there's just SO MUCH!!
=)
In order to understand the significance of the phrase "Who are they?" being repeated in the play, you need to examine the context and the themes of the story. The repetition of this question may have several different meanings, but one common interpretation is related to trust, identity, and the fear of the unknown.
First, let's break down the phrase itself. "Who are they?" implies that there is a group or individuals that are unknown or unfamiliar. The repetition of this question suggests that the characters in the play are constantly questioning the identities and motives of others. This can be seen as a manifestation of their distrust and suspicion towards those around them.
The playwright might be using this repetition as a dramatic device to highlight the characters' anxiety and paranoia. By repeatedly questioning the identity of others, the characters demonstrate their insecurities and uncertainties about the world they are navigating. This adds tension and suspense to the play, keeping the audience engaged and curious about the true intentions of the characters.
Furthermore, the repetition of the phrase "Who are they?" can also reflect deeper themes explored in the play. It could be a commentary on the human condition - the existential question of who we really are and how our identities are perceived by others. By constantly questioning the identities of others, the characters might be grappling with their own sense of self and trying to understand their place in the world.
To fully grasp the significance of this phrase in the play, I would suggest analyzing the specific moments and situations in which it is used. Pay attention to the characters expressing this question and how it affects their relationships and actions. Look for patterns, such as recurring themes of betrayal, secrets, or hidden agendas. By closely examining these elements, you will be able to gain a deeper understanding of why the phrase "Who are they?" is repeatedly emphasized and its significance within the context of the play.