How is Hamlet hypocritical with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern? Provide 2 examples.
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To analyze Hamlet's hypocrisy with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, let's first understand the concept. Hypocrisy refers to the act of pretending to have beliefs or qualities that one does not actually possess. In the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare, Hamlet's relationship with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern displays instances of hypocrisy.
1. In Act II, Scene 2, Hamlet is suspicious of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, as he suspects that they were sent by his uncle, King Claudius, to spy on him. Despite his suspicions, Hamlet pretends to be friendly and welcomes them. He engages in friendly banter, talks freely, and gives the appearance of trust. However, in his soliloquy after their exit, Hamlet reveals his true thoughts and suspects their motives. This demonstrates Hamlet's hypocrisy by pretending to trust them while actually being distrustful.
To find specific quotes or references from the play to support this example, you can refer to the text of Hamlet. You may use a search engine or consult your textbook to find the Act, Scene, and relevant lines that depict Hamlet's interaction with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern.
2. In Act III, Scene 2, Hamlet further displays his hypocrisy with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. He orchestrates a performance of "The Murder of Gonzago" (also known as "The Mousetrap") to gauge Claudius' reaction to the play's depiction of a murder similar to that of King Hamlet. Before the play, Hamlet gives a speech to the actors, explaining how the play should be performed. During his speech, he makes a veiled accusation towards Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, referring to them as "a couple of gibbering monkeys." In this instance, Hamlet is cleverly masking his true intentions under the pretense of giving instructions to the actors, when in reality, he is indirectly targeting Rosencrantz and Guildenstern for their disloyalty.
To find specific quotes or references from the play to support this example, you can also refer to the text of Hamlet. By searching for Act III, Scene 2 and relevant lines, you can identify the specific dialogue where Hamlet indirectly addresses Rosencrantz and Guildenstern.
Remember, it is always important to read and analyze the play itself to fully understand the characters and their actions.