Reflection Prompt
Drama and the Human Condition
How Hamlet's language reveals his state of mind
One of the most famous soliloquies in all of theater is Hamlet's "To be, or not to be" speech from Act 3, Scene 1 of Shakespeare's play. Watch one or more of the performances in the Watch & Listen section of this unit's lesson (or find another version you prefer). This unit introduces the soliloquy as a dramatic device that gives the audience access to a character's inner thoughts. In this speech, Hamlet weighs the value of living against the release of death.
The prompt
Using the vocabulary from this unit (diction, thought, and character), analyze how the language of this soliloquy reveals Hamlet's state of mind. Pay attention to specific word choices and the structure of his argument. What makes this speech dramatic rather than merely philosophical?
A good response quotes a few specific phrases and says what each does. Consider whether Hamlet reaches a conclusion, whether he seems to be convincing himself or another person, and how different the speech would feel if another character were listening.
Your Reflection
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