The play-within-a-play is a pivotal scene in the play
because it provides Hamlet with the evidence he needs to proceed in his mission to
avenge his father's murder. Hamlet has been determined to fulfill his father's request,
but his sense of morality and his careful nature haven't allowed him to act
impulsively. He knows that the ghost may have been in a devil in disguise, so he felt
obligated to find proof of Claudius's guilt. During the play-within-a-play Hamlet has a
running commentary on the action and makes sure that both Claudius and Gertrude are
tuned in to the action. Claudius is suspicious and uncomfortable while watching a story
that so closely matches his own life's circumstances -- he even asks Hamlet about the
title of the play. Once the poison is poured in the ear (a rather unusual detail)
Claudius abruptly leaves the stage -- the trap had been set, and it sprung on Claudius.
The actual title of the play is The Murder of Gonzago -- Hamlet
changes the title to The Mousetrap because that is what the play
really is -- a trap to catch a mouse. Cats like to play with their prey before they
kill it -- kind of like Hamlet is behaving here.
After the
play, Hamlet is a new man. His sense of energy and eenthusiasm for the task of
vengeance are renewed. He now knows that his actions will be justified. This is a very
freeing feeling for him. Unfortunately, circumstances get in the way of action, and
ultimately, Hamlet ends up a victim of Laertes and Claudius's deadly duel
plan.
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