Question

Which theme is reinforced in the excerpt below from Shakespeare's Hamlet?

Rightly to be great
Is not to stir without great argument,
But greatly to find quarrel in a straw
When honor's at the stake. How stand I, then,
That have a father kill'd, a mother stain'd,
Excitements of my reason and my blood,
And let all sleep[?]

Answer 1

The theme reinforced in the excerpt from Shakespeare's Hamlet revolves around honor, action, and the struggle between thought and emotion.

1. Honor and Action: The speaker reflects on what it means to be "great" and suggests that true greatness involves careful consideration before acting. This ties into the broader theme of honor, as Hamlet grapples with the need to avenge his father's murder while contemplating the moral implications of his actions.

2. Indecision and Internal Conflict: The lines reveal Hamlet's internal struggle. He feels a strong desire for revenge after the death of his father and the betrayal of his mother. However, he questions why he remains inactive despite these strong motivations. This highlights the theme of indecision, which is central to Hamlet's character throughout the play.

3. The Weight of Grief: The mention of his father's murder and his mother's actions shows how deeply personal loss affects Hamlet. This grief contributes to his inaction, illustrating the theme of how emotional turmoil can complicate one's ability to act decisively.