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Identify and describe a relationship between two characters in Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet, in which conflict or tension is evident - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2020
Question 1
Identify and describe a relationship between two characters in Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet, in which conflict or tension is evident. (b) Identify an episode or incid... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Identify and describe a relationship between two characters in Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet, in which conflict or tension is evident - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2020
Step 1
Identify and describe a relationship between two characters in Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet, in which conflict or tension is evident.
Answer
In Shakespeare's play Hamlet, one notable relationship marked by conflict is between Hamlet and Claudius. Hamlet, the protagonist, finds himself in deep tension with Claudius, who has murdered Hamlet's father and married his mother, Gertrude. This act of betrayal creates immense internal conflict within Hamlet, driving him to seek revenge while grappling with feelings of disgust and betrayal towards his uncle. The tension in this relationship is evident as Hamlet struggles with the moral implications of revenge and the desire to confront Claudius.
Step 2
Identify an episode or incident from the text which demonstrates the conflict or tension that arises in this relationship, and explain why you think this episode or incident is a good choice to demonstrate this aspect of the relationship.
Answer
A pivotal incident that exemplifies this conflict is Hamlet's encounter with the ghost of his father in Act 1, Scene 5. The ghost reveals the truth about his murder, urging Hamlet to seek vengeance against Claudius. This moment marks a significant turning point for Hamlet, igniting a fiery resolve within him but also deepening his inner turmoil. The ghost's demand places immense pressure on Hamlet, illustrating his struggle between action and inaction. This scene effectively demonstrates the central conflict, as it compels Hamlet to confront his feelings of rage, sadness, and guilt towards Claudius and the situation he faces.
Step 3
Explain whether, in your opinion, the conflict or tension in the relationship you identified above was or was not successfully resolved. Support your answer with reference to the text.
Answer
In my opinion, the conflict between Hamlet and Claudius is ultimately not resolved successfully. Although Hamlet manages to confront Claudius in the climax of the play, the resolution comes too late. The tension culminates in a tragic ending where multiple characters, including Hamlet, perish. Hamlet’s hesitations and philosophical contemplations delay his actions, leading to catastrophic consequences. This unresolved tension serves as a commentary on the complexities of human emotion and the tragic nature of revenge.