Theme Of Appearance Vs Reality In Hamlet

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December 9, 2015
Hamlet’s Appearance vs. Reality Hamlet, is known for having a major theme of appearance versus reality. The character’s are shown as one person on the outside, but are a completely different on the inside. We see this theme in different characters in the story. This personality trait is shown in Claudius, Polonius, and Hamlet. Each of these characters’ actions do not always show their true nature. Claudius, the king of Denmark, is represented as a kind, caring king who is weeping for his deceased brother and cares for his nephew, Hamlet. Claudius is shown to have cared for his brother, king Hamlet, in the play. “…and that it us befitted To bear our hearts in grief, and our whole kingdom To be contracted in one brow of woe…” (Claudius) (Act I, Scene II, lines 3-4). Claudius says …show more content…

For one example, when Hamlet goes to Gertrude’s room and discovers that someone is eavesdropping behind the curtain, he lashes out and stabs through the curtain, thinking (and hoping) that it was king Claudius. However, because of his anger and quick rage, he ends up killing Polonius, for which he feels guilty. “For this same lord, I do repent.” (Hamlet) (Act III, Scene IV, Lines 175-176). Hamlet’s insanity also has effects upon himself. When Claudius becomes suspicious of Hamlet’s madness, he sends someone to check on him and see if he really is insane. "Get from him why he puts on this confusion" (Claudius) (Act III, Scene I, Line 2). However, Hamlet’s reaction to their questionings did not tell him that he was insane. "What he spake, though it lacked form a little. Was not like madness." (Act III, Scene I, Lines 163-4). King Claudius decided to send him away to England in order to prevent any danger in his kingdom. “Will be some danger—which for to prevent, I have in quick determination. Thus set it down: he shall with speed to England” (Claudius) (Act III, Scene I, Lines

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