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. inflorescences contention that this is a work of near biblical importance nor can I accept his allusions to Jesus or the Buddha. Hamlet dust apart something transcendent about him places him more aptly with the biblical King David, or with even more exalted scriptural figures.(Bloom, 384). My immediate response is that when Mr. Bloom shuffles off this mortal coil, I dont believe Billy Shakespe ar will be waiting with a pint of ale. Professor Schechners enjoyable production increased my custody 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 character 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 Shakespeare an aficionados. My own expertise lies in the political arena. I believe Hamlet could be construed as a treatise on aggressive, imperialist behavior. Throughout the dramaturgical Analysis of Hamlet Prince of Denmark the indecisiveness of Hamlet is noted. He does not immediately seek vengeance hardly continually schemes, rants and raves (both in his rational 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 railyard men... (sic). (Shakespeare, 116). The impending doom 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 subsequent expansion of Norway. An anger 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 warlike Fortinbras succeeds in Poland and obtains the land of Denmark by plays end - may be a commentary on decisive, imperialistic behavior.