Monday, October 10, 2011

(Don't) Be Hamlet

Hamlet's soliloquy shows his thoughts about the dilemma he is faced with.  He is conflicted about whether he should commit suicide or not.  Hamlet meticulously weighs out the pros and cons of taking his life, and feels he is a coward for doing so.  Hamlet feels by ending his life it would "end the heartache, and the thousand natural shocks that flesh is heir to."  However, Hamlet is also scared of what the "undiscovered country" holds after death.  In the end, Hamlet questioning his thoughts is what saved his life.  

I agree with Hamlet's decision, but not with his reasoning.  Hamlet should not kill himself, simply because running away from his problems is not the solution.  The best way to overcome his challenges is to face them- and Hamlet knows it. "Or to take arms against a sea of troubles and by opposing end them."  Everyone has problems, and how the person handles them and grows from them determines their character.

Hamlet should not end his life because he has purpose to live.  He has not finished the task asked of him,  which was to avenge his father.  Doesn't he feel it is his obligation and responsibility to honor his father and obey him?  Also, if Hamlet died, he would be separated from Ophelia.  He would have no chance of winning her over, and living a happy life with her. 

Hamlet has many reasons to not commit suicide.  Some of the reasons, he has even thought of himself.  Thinking about the pros and cons of suicide shows Hamlet is wise, and not impulsive. Hamlet should not give up, and things will get better.

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