Question

Hamlet seems preoccupied with death much of the play; what new insight does the graveyard scene (v.i.) reveal regarding his attitude toward mortality? toward life, fame, and accomplishment? how does this attitude connect to his central conflict in the play?

Answer 1

In the graveyard scene of 'Hamlet,' we see a more tangible and leveling view of death from Hamlet, understanding that in death, everyone is equal, and reflecting on the futility of fame and accomplishments. This realization connects deeply with his central conflict regarding revenge and the nature of his inaction.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the graveyard scene (Act V, Scene i) of Hamlet, we gain new insights into Hamlet's evolving perspective on mortality, life, fame, and accomplishment. His contemplation of the skulls, especially that of Yorick, the king's jester, signifies a more tangible and leveling attitude towards death; no matter one's status in life, they end up the same in death. This realization allows Hamlet to reflect on the futility of fame and the temporary nature of accomplishments. It also stirs thoughts about the afterlife and the spiritual unrest that may come from unresolved issues, as Hamlet ponders the consequences of his own inaction.

Hamlet's preoccupation with death is closely related to the play's central conflict -- the question of whether to take revenge on Claudius for his father's murder. The graveyard scene underscores the inevitability of death and the ultimate futility of human endeavor, leading to a more philosophical and resigned Hamlet, rather than a man driven purely by vengeance.

This scene also provides a stark contrast to earlier in the play where Hamlet seems obsessed with the morality of his potential actions and the haunting by his father's ghost, which, as some critics suggest, might represent the oppression of Catholics during Shakespeare's time. Thus, the graveyard scene presents a pivotal moment in Hamlet's internal struggle, offering a more reflective and poignant perspective on his existential crisis.

Answer 2

The graveyard scene is a turning point for Hamlet - his thoughts and opinions on death become more solidified and he soon decides what he is going to do about his revenge and life in general.

During the graveyard scene, we see Hamlet holding Yorick's skull, who used to be his court jester. Hamlet is contemplating life and death, thinking about how it is odd that he used to know this skull while it still belonged to a living man, and that now he is gone, turned to dust.

He is also thinking about many famous people, such as Alexander the Great and Caesar, realizing that no matter how famous and accomplished you are, you are still inevitably going to die and turn to dust, as his friend, Yorick did. He used to be very torn about whether he should commit suicide or kill his uncle, and this is the very moment where he makes his decision after realizing that life is futile.