Directions: This essay, like your initial essay on The Wall, will be a literary
analysis. You should follow your
handouts precisely on how to write the introduction paragraph, body paragraphs,
topic sentences and conclusion paragraphs.
You should also be sure to cite Hamlet in a works cited page and to edit
thoroughly for Poff’s Pet Peeves.
Note: You are not required to write this essay. Remember, however, that you must compose
three literary essays and one research essay total this semester.
IMPORTANT: I will
not be taking up rough drafts. I will, however, happily look over rough
drafts you bring to my office.
Requirements:
The essay must be 3.5 pages in length minimum.
The essay must quote extensively, but briefly, from the
stories for evidence.
The essay must be in correct MLA style
Parenthetical citations should use the page number on the
handout I provided
The essay must include a work/s cited page (Cite as online
sources: All Stories are linked to the class blog).
No outside research is required, but you may use it as you
wish as long as you cite it!
Some Ideas:
Hamlet is not actually insane, but he uses the pretext that he is insane in order to plot his revenge.
Hamlet offers three revenge narratives, that of Hamlet, Laertes, and Fortinbras, in order to establish the correct method and reasons for seeking revenge.
Hamlet stages a conflict between a pagan world view in which revenge is justified and expected, and a Christian world view which reserves vengeance for God.
Hamlet's inaction stems from his inability to take a life "in cold blood" without "over thinking" all of his potential motives and the potential consequences of his actions.
Hamlet is primarily about the dangers of gossip and the difficulty in determining who and what is honest in that context.
Hamlet lacks real world experience and when placed in the dangerous situation in the Danish court handles it as if he imagines himself as a tragic hero in a play.