How do these develop theme of these allusions from Hamlet?
1. "I would have such a fellow whipped for o'erdoing Termagant" (II,ii,14)
So basically Hamlet is telling his actors not over act during the play.
2. “For O, For O, the hobbyhorse is forgot”
To understand how these allusions develop the themes in Hamlet, we need to analyze the context and meaning behind them.
1. "I would have such a fellow whipped for o'erdoing Termagant" (II,ii,14)
This quote comes from Act II, Scene ii, where Hamlet gives a group of actors advice on acting during a play he has planned. In this line, Hamlet criticizes the actor for overdoing the character Termagant, who is known for being excessively violent and turbulent.
By using this allusion, Hamlet is highlighting the importance of naturalness and avoiding excessive dramatics in acting. Through this allusion, the theme of appearance versus reality is developed as Hamlet wants the actors to portray their characters realistically, without exaggerations or artificiality. This theme is significant in Hamlet because the play itself revolves around characters struggling with the question of what is real and what is merely a facade.
To understand Termagant and its significance, you can delve into research on Elizabethan theater and the characters popularly depicted during that time. Reading about the historical context and popular plays of the era can shed light on how this allusion helps develop the theme.
2. “For O, For O, the hobbyhorse is forgot”
This line is from Act III, Scene ii, during the staging of the play named "The Murder of Gonzago," which Hamlet has altered to expose his stepfather Claudius as a murderer. The "hobbyhorse" refers to a traditional character in medieval and Elizabethan Mummers' plays, which is a person wearing a costume, representing a horse, and imitating its movements.
In this allusion, the "hobbyhorse" symbolizes the forgotten joy and innocence of youth. Hamlet uses the line to express his frustration and disillusionment with the world, particularly with the corruption and betrayal he has experienced. The theme of appearance versus reality is again developed, emphasizing the loss of innocence and the hidden motives of those around Hamlet.
To fully grasp the significance of the "hobbyhorse," studying the history of Mummers' plays and their cultural importance during Shakespeare's time would be helpful. Additionally, exploring the specific context within Hamlet's play-within-a-play scene can provide further insights into how this allusion connects to the overall themes of the play.
In both cases, understanding the historical, cultural, and literary context surrounding the allusions will enhance your appreciation of their significance in developing the themes of Hamlet.