832 #9
Hamlet’s soliloquy in Act II scene ii remarkably demonstrates his rational yet slightly deranged mental state. Hamlet begins his soliloquy criticizing his fearful disposition that prevents him from preceding any further with taking revenge for his father’s murder. Hamlet expresses that he must take action but he is not strong enough. Hamlet’s thought process leads him to his intelligent plan to test King Claudius’ and prove his guilt. Hamlet’s soliloquy displays his ability to transition from a state of madness to a rational state of mind, in which he is able to act decisively.
p. 833 #7
A conflict between reason and passion are presented in the play through Hamlet’s interaction with himself and others. This interaction between reason and passion seem to work together to produce results, especially in Hamlet’s soliloquies. Hamlet reveals a great sense of reason in his soliloquies while also expressing his emotions passionately. The passionate sense of expression allows Hamlet to realize his ultimate motives, which in effect lead him to reason out a way to achieve what he is after. In another sense, the conflict between reason and passion are developed by Hamlet’s interaction with Ophelia. Hamlet realizes Ophelia’s abnormal behavior, which he suspects to be caused by her father’s command. Although Hamlet may be passionate about Ophelia, he lets the forces of reason take over to avoid a dangerous situation. Reason and passion conflict with each other in multiple ways that directly affect Hamlet’s course of action and own well-being.
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