The consequences of mortality are diverse, as it pertains to the state of being subject to death. However, the impact of this powerful aspect in life depends on those affected by it. For example, the demise of a loved one can be seen as a tragedy, whereas the passing of a fascist leader might be perceived as advantageous or even extraordinary. The influence of death varies based on the circumstances. Fortunately, William Shakespeare offers a captivating examination of the cause and effect of death in his literary works. In his play Hamlet, death serves as an inevitable force that propels numerous actions throughout the narrative.
From the ghost of Old Hamlet discussing a treacherous murder to the passing of noble Hamlet, death is a prominent theme in the play Hamlet, depicted through acts of revenge, the progression of the story, and the despair experienced by characters. Hamlet’s only viable recourse in seeking vengeance for his father was to kill Claudius, in order to achieve justice. Throughout the play, it is frequently reiterated that Claudius murdered Old Hamlet using a poison only fit for a coward, driven by political motives and envy. Consequently, Old Hamlet appears as a ghostly apparition to inform his son that the only way for him to find peace and restore his soul is by murdering the newly crowned king as an act of rightful retribution: “Revenge his foul, and most unnatural murder…but know, noble youth, the serpent that took your father’s life now wears the royal crown.” (1.5.25, 38-40). In this statement, Old Hamlet implies that his death was “unnatural,” suggesting that it was a abhorrent deed.
Furthermore, the ghost of Old Hamlet continues by describing Claudius as an “Incestuous, adulterous animal. “With his clever with witchcraft of his wit, with traitorous gifts o wicked wit and gifts, that have the power so to seduce!” (1.5. 42-45). It is apparent that the ghost holds a deep resentment towards Claudius for his foolish misconduct. Thus, the spirit urges Hamlet to avenge him by murdering Claudius, so that Claudius may experience the same eternal sorrow and suffering. Obedient to his father’s wishes, Hamlet fulfills this mission towards the play’s conclusion. Consequently, this is the reason why death becomes a recurring theme in Hamlet, as Claudius’s actions have detrimental consequences for other characters.
The dominance of death in the play Hamlet resulted in a series of unexpected events. The murder of Old Hamlet led to the mistaken death of Gertrude, which then caused the deaths of Claudius, Hamlet, and Laertes. Without death as a major element in the storyline, many events would not have occurred. Claudius described the death of Old Hamlet as extraordinary: “Though yet of Hamlet our dear brother’s death, the memory be green, and that it us befitted to bear our hearts in grief, and our whole kingdom to be contracted in one brow of woe yet so far hath discretion fought with nature that we with wisest sorrow think on him together with remembrance of ourselves.” (1.2.1-7).
Considering this passage, it becomes clear that the death of Old Hamlet resulted in the grief of an entire nation. Consequently, there is a noticeable impact related to the power of death in the play, as Claudius wed Gertrude following Old Hamlet’s demise. To put it differently, the murder of Old Hamlet enabled Claudius to rule, but he was ultimately killed by Hamlet. Thus, due to these tragic and lamentable incidents, the significance of death is regarded as a central element in the play, with all events essentially revolving around its influence.
The significance of death in Hamlet’s story increases when people collectively express their desperation. Hamlet views death as a never-ending slumber that brings an end to all suffering. He states, “To die – to sleep, no more; and by a sleep to say we end the heartache and the thousand natural shocks that flesh is heir to, ’tis a consummation devoutly to be wished” (3.1.68-72). This clearly reveals Hamlet’s profound sadness and deep depression. With the deaths of his father and Ophelia, Hamlet has no option but to confront these recent events.
Hamlet’s unique experience of sorrow arises from his contemplation of death amidst the deaths of others. Death holds a significant place in Hamlet’s life, consuming his thoughts throughout the play. Ophelia also endures great suffering, expressing her misery as she mourns the change in Hamlet’s demeanor. With no one to seek solace from, Ophelia internalizes her melancholy. Additionally, Polonius and his companions criticize Ophelia for her love towards Hamlet. Had Old Hamlet not died, Hamlet would not have feigned madness, sparing Ophelia heartache. Instead, her heart is filled with torment and grief, leading to her suicide. Death plays a central role in the plot of Hamlet by influencing the characters’ devastation and their ongoing strife.
The play Hamlet revolves around the theme of death. Throughout the play, the characters’ actions, the progression of the story, and the sorrow felt by the characters are all primarily driven by murder. The plot is consistently tied to death, starting with Old Hamlet’s mention of the wrongful assassination and leading to the rise and fall of Claudius as leader. Hamlet, motivated by a strong desire for revenge and change, seeks assurance before taking action against Claudius. Instead of killing Claudius when he has the opportunity, Hamlet engages in a spiritual struggle in order to achieve maximum revenge, ultimately resulting in eternal suffering for the new king. Following his father’s will, Hamlet unknowingly sets off a series of events that fulfill his aspirations for vengeance. Unfortunately, his plan backfires and both Hamlet and his seemingly innocent mother Gertrude tragically lose their lives, creating a tragedy that will be remembered forever.
