Final answer:
In Shakespeare's 'Hamlet,' the lines in question speak to the tragic hero's deserving of royal and military honors in death, illustrating the Elizabethan valorization of noble martial qualities and providing a powerful visual and auditory conclusion that resonates with the audience.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lines you've provided from Shakespeare's Hamlet signify the end of the Da_ish prince's tumultuous journey and the respect he commands even in death. The passage suggests that Hamlet should be carried 'like a soldier to the stage,' which is a metaphorical reference to Hamlet being given full military honors as he is taken away. The character is described as someone who would have 'prov’d most royally,' emphasizing the nobility and potential of his character through the use of alliteration in 'prov’d most.' The mention of 'the soldiers’ music and the rites of war' highlights the Elizabethan era's high regard for martial valor and ceremony. Finally, the direction to 'bid the soldiers shoot' implies a salute, which is a final mark of respect and farewell.
These lines also employ dramatic irony, considering that the audience knows more about the tragic events and the protagonist's inner turmoil than the characters within the play. The allusion to royal and military grandeur would resonate with the Elizabethan audience, who valued these as exemplars of honor and heroism. The visual and auditory imagery used would evoke a strong emotional response from the audience, helping them to experience the gravity of the play's conclusion.