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Claudius believes Hamlet to be insane. Explain how Hamlet's words can be used as proof of

his insanity. Use evidence from the text to support your claim.
Hamlet, while acting like he is insane, is also plotting to kill Claudius, and therefore his
words have a duplicity to them that reflect his nefarious intent. How are Hamlet's words
both grotesque and threatening at the same time? Use evidence to support your claim.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Hamlet's words can be used as proof of his insanity, as they are both grotesque and threatening. His use of twisted imagery and violent language reflects his disturbed mental state and his plan to kill Claudius.


Step-by-step explanation:

Hamlet's words can be used as proof of his insanity due to their grotesque and threatening nature. Throughout the play, Hamlet often uses twisted, dark imagery and makes violent threats, which reflect his disturbed mental state. For example, in Act III, Scene 1, Hamlet says, 'I will speak daggers to her, but use none,' indicating his intention to verbally attack his mother, Queen Gertrude, with hurtful words.

This duplicity in Hamlet's words is a reflection of his plan to kill Claudius. While he feigns madness, his choice of words and expressions reveal an undercurrent of malicious intention. For instance, in Act II, Scene 2, Hamlet says to Polonius, 'Jesters do oft prove prophets,' indirectly hinting at the truth he knows about Claudius' crime.

Overall, Hamlet's words are both grotesque and threatening as they convey his disturbed mental state and his sinister plan to take revenge on Claudius. His use of dark imagery and violent language are evidence of his unraveling sanity and his nefarious intent.


Learn more about Hamlet's words and their connection to his mental state

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