Hamlet 2.2 | Self Loathing Soliloquy

Question 1

2.2 ‘rogue and peasant slave’

Answer 1

By referring to himself as this he sees himself as lowly and undeserving of his royal position

Question 2

2.2 “I am pigeon liver’d and lack gall”

Answer 2

Metaphor - hamlet’s deficiency in gall (created in the liver) conveys how he lacks bold temperament that he feels is necessary for action - for this context use ‘the four humors’

Question 3

2.2 ‘Unpregnant’

Answer 3

Conveys sense of emasculation, lack of resolve as a failure to embody masculine courage he believes avenging his father requires (missing motivation)

Question 4

2.2 ‘Must like a whore unpack my heart with words’

Answer 4

Simile - feels shameful as he sees himself reduced to mere emotional outbursts instead of honourable action. Feeling debased and emasculated by his inability to fulfil his duty