so questions the purpose of his role: madness or vengeful son? He had already pledged revenge, but again acquiesces, "[m]ust, like a whore, unpack my heart with words / And fall a-cursing like a very drab, A scullion!" (2.2.614-16). Hence, Hamlet is now berating role playing, although he now realizes he may provide proof of Claudius' guilt through role playing by the players. Hamlet then devises a plan to use the players to condemn Claudius via a play, "[t]he play's the thing / Wherein I'll catch the conscience of the King" (2.2.633-4). Before the play is performed, Hamlet has an intercourse with Ophelia, and offers some prophetic statements, "[t]o be, or not to be..." (3.1.64-98). Clearly, in this most famous Shakespearean soliloquy, Hamlet displays thoughts of self that questions the worth of living. Moreover, Hamlet recognizes the importance of his affections towards Ophelia, and in regards to Ophelia's beauty, Hamlet states "[t]hat if you be honest and fair, your honesty / should admit no discourse to your beauty" (3.1.117-8). Clearly, Hamlet is saying that indeed, Ophelia can be honest and fair, however; it is virtually impossible to link these two traits, since 'fairness' is an outward trait, while 'honesty' is an inward trait. He further states Ay, truly, for the power of beauty will sooner transform honesty from what it is to a bawd than the force of honesty can translate beauty into his likeness (3.1.121-4).Thus, Hamlet is stating that the inner and outer self cannot be linked, yet acting or role playing, transforms ones inner self to match the exterior show. In this sense, Hamlet would not have any problems taking action, if only he was able to act the part. Hamlet then contradicts himself again when he states "God hath given you one face, and you / make yourselves another" (3.1.155-6). He states that appearance is paramount, but chastises women for changing it. These passages further Hamlet's ambiguous nature - he ...
