Gertrude Flashcards
(4 cards)
Who is Gertrude?
- Queen of Denmark, Hamlet’s mother.
- Marries Claudius quickly after King Hamlet’s death.
- Often seen as passive or naive, though some interpretations show her as emotionally aware.
Key quotes for Gertrude
“The lady doth protest too much, methinks” – Ironically reveals her own potential guilt or discomfort when watching the play-within-a-play.
“O Hamlet, speak no more: / Thou turn’st mine eyes into my very soul” – Gertrude begins to feel guilt and emotional pain after Hamlet confronts her.
“Sweets to the sweet” – A tender farewell to Ophelia, showing maternal affection despite her earlier coldness.
Main themes for Gertrude
Women – Passive and controlled by male figures; her sexuality is judged.
Family – Her actions deeply affect Hamlet’s psychological state.
Corruption – Marriage to Claudius seen by Hamlet as incestuous and immoral.
Death – Poisoned in the final scene; a tragic end tied to male plots.
Context for Gertrude
Gertrude reflects patriarchal Elizabethan views of female dependence and chastity. Critics debate her agency — feminist readings argue she may be more politically aware than she appears.
