as prescribed by the ghost of his father. During this act, Hamlet spends most of his time reading and talking with Polonius, Guildenstern, Rosencrantz, and the players. Not until the very end of the second act does Hamlet refer to his filial duty to avenge his father. Instead of carrying out the destiny described by his fathers spirit - role of the vengeful son - Hamlet exhibits insane behaviors. This is illustrated by his statements to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, "I know not, lost my mirth, forgone all / custom of exercises..." (2.2.319-320). Hamlet then admits he is merely feigning insanity with, "I am but mad north-north-west. When the / wind is southerly, I know a hawk from a handsaw (2.2.402-3). Admitting he is only acting "mad", implies he is secure with his plot. Hamlet also seems to portray a willingness to accept this plight with, "...for there is / nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it / so..." (2.2.268-70). In this instance, Hamlet is stating that behavior shapes reality. In act two, Hamlet is again prompted towards vengeance - this time by a poignant speech delivered by one of the players. Hamlet responds to this dialogue with, What's Hecuba to him, or he to Hecuba,That he should weep for her? What would he doHad he the motive and the cue for passionThat I have? (2.2.586-89). In this complement to this player's acting ability, Hamlet is saying that if he were such an actor he would have killed Claudius by now. Therein, lies the struggle between acting, and actual vengeance, that persists throughout the play until the very end. At this moment, Hamlet avows to avenge his father, I should have fatted all the region kites With this slave's offal. Bloody, bawdy villain!O, vengeance! 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... (2.2.606-13).Again, Hamlet is questioning not only his sanity, but his role in life. He al...
