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Duality
Nov 27, 2011 19:44:46 GMT -5
Post by dbrotman on Nov 27, 2011 19:44:46 GMT -5
Oftentimes Shakespeare seems to juxtapose opposing natures in big speeches, and then continue to repeat and rephrase them e.g. the happiness and sadness in Claudius' opening speech and the the good v. evil nature that Hamlet questions of the ghost. Does anybody else think this of import as was the nature of Duality in Oedipus, or was it more for the benefit of the audience to give context?
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Duality
Dec 1, 2011 22:32:37 GMT -5
Post by mmazzucco9 on Dec 1, 2011 22:32:37 GMT -5
I think this juxtaposition is important for a variety of reasons. For Claudius' opening speech he utilizes this contrast in order to display what he believes is his "competence" as a leader. Claudius aims to reveal the fact that there are problems in Denmark, however he is undoubtedly going to make them right. Obviously we know that Claudius is an absolutely terrible ruler who possesses very little skill, however the word choice and juxtaposition allows Claudius to conceal his lack of skill and make it appear as if he has everything under control and the people of Denmark should celebrate. This could be a stylistic technique that Shakespeare employs for many of his characters.
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Duality
Dec 1, 2011 22:35:01 GMT -5
Post by mmazzucco9 on Dec 1, 2011 22:35:01 GMT -5
I also think the contrast in Hamlet's statements corresponds to his dual-personality. At moments he is incredibly happy and passionate, while at other moments he is depressed and very passive. The contrasts could therefore correspond and relate to the dichotomy in Hamlet's personality.
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