Final answer:
In Hamlet's speech, 'he' refers to an actor who is moved by the story of Hecuba, highlighting Hamlet's own inability to act against Claudius. Hamlet insinuates that Claudius is base and debased, unlike his noble father, by comparing them to a satyr and Hyperion, respectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Hamlet asks, "What's Hecuba to him, or he to Hecuba," he is referring to the actor who is moved to tears by the plight of Hecuba, the queen of Troy, while performing in a play. The 'him' or 'he' in this context is the actor playing the role. In contrast, Hamlet hasn't been able to stir himself to action against his uncle, Claudius, despite the much more personal and significant grief and injustice Hamlet has suffered due to Claudius's actions.
1. Hyperion is a figure from Greek mythology, one of the Titans and associated with the sun. In "Hamlet," the character is used as a metaphor when Hamlet compares the noble and god-like nature of his father, Old Hamlet, to Hyperion.
2. A satyr is a creature from Greek mythology, often associated with Dionysian revelry and known for its lascivious behavior. Hamlet compares his uncle Claudius to a satyr to highlight the disparity between Claudius's lecherous and debased nature and his father's nobility.
3. By using these references, Hamlet is insinuating that his uncle is far inferior to his father, comparing the god-like Hyperion to the base, lustful satyr to imply how much of a downgrade Claudius is in comparison to Old Hamlet.