Illusion In Hamlet

How an individual perceives themselves directly relates to their perception of the world around them. Through Hamlet, Shakespeare forms a connection between self-perception and the interpretation of reality; individuals tend to choose the situation that suits their perception most accurately. Initially, he shows this through Hamlet's perception of his cowardice, choosing to act and perceive the world in a way that allows him to act in such a way. Shakespeare then shows how Hamlet perceiving himself as acting mad, allows him to view the world in a way that causes him to act according to this perception. Finally, Shakespeare's use soliloquies to show how an individual's questioning of ideas changes their perception of themselves, and therefore
This idea appears most prominent initially in Hamlet’s encounter with a supposedly praying Claudius during the third act. Shakespeare uses a soliloquy to convey to the reader that Hamlet views himself as cowardly, Hamlet saying “Why, what an ass am I! This is most brave, That I, the son of a dear father murdered, Prompted to my revenge by heaven and hell, Must, like a whore, unpack my heart with words…” (II.ii.545-548) This perception explains his later actions and interpretations in regards to the conflict between reality and illusion. When Hamlet comes across Claudius, he questions the validity of his revenge, asking himself “To take him in the purging of his
This inquiry of reality oftentimes ties in Hamlet’s view of himself, first question the validity of Gertrude and Claudius’ marriage. Hamlet compares his perception of his grief to his mother's, later basing his opinion of her on this early view. He first speaks about his own grief, perceiving himself as deeply mourning, “Together with all forms, moods, shapes of grief, That can denote me truly.” (I.ii.82-83) He then compares his view of mourning to Gertrude’s actions, choosing to view her in an ill manner, as his perception of himself correlates best to Gertrude being seen in such a light, saying “Almost as bad, good mother, As kill a king and marry with his brother.” (III.iv.29-30) later in the play. Shakespeare again uses Hamlet’s soliloquies to explore reality and illusion, in regards to death this situation. Hamlet asks “To be, or not to be?” (III.i.57) and it’s this internal questioning of his perception of his life's worth that causes the main strife within this play. His questioning extends beyond himself, but is applied to other characters. When presented with Yorick’s skull, Hamlet questions death once again, all from the view of his perception of himself, and this questioning leads to Hamlet’s eventual acceptance of death, and therefore the end of the play. Shakespeare employs