Free Hamlet Essays: Hamlet Interpreted :: The Tragedy of Hamlet Essays

Hamlet Interpreted It is clear Hamlet can be interpreted from a multitude of perspectives on numerous levels. I cannot quite grasp Mr. Blooms contention that this is a work of near biblical importance nor can I accept his allusions to Jesus or the Buddha. Hamlet remains apart something transcendent about him places him more aptly with the biblical King David, or with even more exalted scriptural figures.(Bloom, 384). My conterminous response is that when Mr. Bloom shuffles off this mortal coil, I dont believe Billy Shakespeare will be waiting with a pint of ale. Professor Schechners enjoyable labor increased my appreciation of the value of wardrobe and inflection of voice. Prior to this performance I did not see Polonius as a buffoon (as portrayed by Mr. Shapli), nor the incestuous nature of Ophelias familial relationships (Ms. Coles ability to transform from coquette to lunatic was shocking). Doubtless there are near as many interpretations of Hamlet as there are Shakespearean afi cionados. My own expertise lies in the political arena. I believe Hamlet could be construed as a treatise on aggressive, imperialist behavior. Throughout the Dramaturgic Analysis of Hamlet Prince of Denmark the indecisiveness of Hamlet is noted. He does not immediately seek vengeance but continually schemes, rants and raves (both in his perspicacious and insane moments). Whether cowardice, caution, or simply indifference dominate his persona is unclear - what is clear is his distaste for his own behavior How stand I then, That have a father killd, a mother staind,...And let all sleep, while to my shame I see The imminent death of twenty thousand men... (sic). (Shakespeare, 116). The impending sentence of the twenty thousand men alludes to a campaign waged by Fortinbas, the Prince of Norway. Though the battleground is said to be of little value, Fortinbas is warring on principles of honor and the incidental expansion of Norway. An enraged Hamlet mistakenly slays Polonius. Rosenc rantz and Guildenstern are sent to their inconsequential deaths only when he is inspired by pirates to save his own life. These murders involved no elaborate schemes but were simply enacted. Yet with all his planning, his opportunities, his justification, why can he not kill Claudius? The portrayal of the pirates as merciful thieves (Shakespeare, 124) and the fact that martial Fortinbras succeeds in Poland and obtains the Kingdom of Denmark by plays end - may be a commentary on decisive, imperialistic behavior.