Hi, If anyone has read Hamlet...I have to write an essay showing how Hamlet is a hypocrite or similar.
I need 3 main points of proof.
I only have one, which is that Hamlet says he loves Ophelia but hes the cause of her death and he shunned her.
I need two more points.
His father's ghost showed up and told him about the murder and demanded revenge. What did Hamlet do? Obey?
Hamlet says he loves his mother, but how did he treat her in her own chambers?
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How is Hamlet a hypocrite though, if he does not obey his father?
Does he say he will do this, right away, to his friends? (And make them swear an oath of secrecy about the ghost?) So why do we have a five-act play, during which time he never carries out the ghost's instructions?
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To find additional points that showcase Hamlet's hypocrisy, let's analyze the character's actions and words in different situations.
1. Inconsistency in seeking revenge: Hamlet shows hypocrisy in his delayed pursuit of revenge against his father's murderer. Despite the ghost's explicit demand for revenge, Hamlet hesitates and procrastinates throughout the play. He initially vows to take immediate action, yet he constantly delays his plans, using excuses like needing more evidence or wanting to ensure a justifiable killing. This inconsistency demonstrates a hypocritical aspect of Hamlet's character, as he fails to follow through on his own words.
2. Treatment of Polonius vs. Claudius: Another instance of Hamlet's hypocrisy can be seen in his treatment of Polonius, the King's advisor, compared to his treatment of King Claudius. Hamlet openly mocks and insults Polonius, displaying his contempt for him. However, when it comes to Claudius, who is the true cause of his father's death, Hamlet often fails to confront him directly. Despite his strong desire for revenge, Hamlet seems to avoid taking direct action against Claudius, contrasting with his confrontations with Polonius.
3. Hamlet's treatment of his friends: Hamlet hypocritically involves his friends, particularly Horatio and the members of the court, in his plans and secrets while simultaneously criticizing them for their allegiance to Claudius. He persuades them to swear an oath of secrecy about the appearance of his father's ghost, stating that they should prioritize the pursuit of justice. However, as time passes, Hamlet fails to involve his friends in his actual revenge plot and rarely provides them with updates or clear instructions, leaving them in confusion and uncertainty.
By exploring these three points, you can effectively demonstrate how Hamlet's actions and words depict him as a hypocrite in your essay. Remember to support each point with evidence from the play, such as specific quotes or scenes, to provide a thorough analysis.