Hamlet's Use of Language as a Weapon

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Since the dawn of civilization, language has been recognized as a powerful tool to manipulate and control people. During the 5th century BC, the Sophists of Ancient Greece began to give lessons in rhetoric and argument. These philosophers for hire realized that the pen is truly mightier than the sword, or as Rosencrantz said, “…many wearing rapiers are afraid of goosequills.” (II.ii.357) This perceived importance of language is clearly evident in the play Hamlet, where words are important driving forces for the plot. For many characters in the play, words serve as weapons to manipulate other people and achieve their personal goals. The murder of King Hamlet with ear poison and the ghost’s revelation that the whole ear of Denmark has been rankly abused undoubtedly foreshowed the significant role words play as lethal weapons in the storyline. Hamlet, the most eloquent and articulate character in the story was the unrivalled wielder of these weapons. By winning his mother’s trust and proving Claudius’ guilt, Hamlet unquestionably used language effectively as a weapon.

The best demonstration of Hamlet’s skilful rhetoric and ability to control situations with his words is in Act 3, Scene 4. In this scene, Gertrude summons Hamlet to her chamber to chastise him for his actions during and after the play. However, Hamlet turns the tables and eventually wins Gertrude over to his side. Hamlet recognizes his powers with words and says to himself, “I’ll speak daggers to her but use none.” (III.ii.389) This metaphor is reciprocated by Gertrude as she says, “O, speak to me no more / These words, like daggers, enter in mine ears.” (III.iv.106-107) The multiple representations of Hamlet’s words as daggers affirms the idea that he uses language...

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...II.ii.616-617) Even as Hamlet killed Claudius by dousing him with his own poisoned wine, he continues to assault him with puns. “Drink off this potion. Is thy union here?” (V.ii.340) In one phrase, Hamlet referred to the pearl, Claudius’ incestuous marriage and the inadvertent murder of Gertrude. Though Hamlet did not kill Claudius on his terms, his way with words effectively unravelled the King’s murderous deeds.

Hamlet undoubtedly used language effectively as a weapon to manipulate other people and accomplish his ultimate goal of revenge. Using language and words, Hamlet reversed his mother’s moral stance and confirmed Claudius’ guilt. As American author, Washington Irving, once wrote, "A sharp tongue is the only edged tool that grows keener with constant use." Hamlet’s sharp tongue and wit were his greatest weapons, and his use of them proved very effective.

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