Madness

Question 1

Act 2 scene 2: hamlet begins his antic disposition giving punning replies to polonius “you are a fishmonger”, “if the sun breed maggots in a dead dog…” what aside does Polonius say about the theme of madness

Answer 1

“Though this be madness, yet there is method in’t.”
> recognised hamlet is acting mad on purpose, understands strategy behind seemingly illogical behaviour

Question 2

How does Branagh show hamlet as acting mad in act 2 scene 2 when talking to polonius

Answer 2

• wears a skull mask
• makes silly, comical faces + puts on a comical voice

Question 3

Sir Herbert tree suggests “the key element of the play is …

Answer 3

Madness”

Question 4

How can hamlet be seen to loose control and emotionally spiral in his act 2 scene 2 soliloquy
(Form structure + AO5)

Answer 4

RSC: tears down surveillance camera, goes up to camera & breaks 4th wall, slumps onto floor making himself look small, wearing muscle man T > ironic criticising his weakness
Branagh: constant change in tone, begins in a slow soft whisper then shouting, childish tantrum like overacting, punching and hitting himself, breaking objects banging walls and doors
- A WINDOW INTO HIS FRACTURED AND CONFLICTED MIND > fragmented speech using rhetorical questions, exclamatives and repetition

Question 5

What quote from the end of 3,1 from Claudius suggests he fears hamlets madness

Answer 5

“Madness in great ones must not unwatched go” > rhyming couplet, speaking in verse remaining composure
- scared hamlets madness puts him under threat as his secret may be revealed > “the disclose I’ll be some danger”