The enormity of the stress that Gertrude puts upon Hamlet makes Hamlet develop a substantial resentment towards her. ... e and towards her untimely death. ... After all, if the love between them were weakened, the impact of that kind of love rejection followed by her support of Claudius would be lessened. ... After all, in killing Claudius, Hamlet would not be killing the man his beloved mother loves. ... After all, one might imagine that if Hamlet could get this depressed before hearing of his father's murder, he would likely become extremely high-strung once he learns of his murder. 2...

• Word Count: 3498
• Approx Pages: 14
• Grade Level: High School

Stoppard constantly reminds the reader that this is a play, not real life. ... Even the idea of these two men being able to help Hamlet in any way is ridiculous--and yet they have no choice but to try, because of their positions in life and at court. ... He isn't so disturbed about the seeming absurdity and randomness of his life. ... Hamlet considers committing suicide, then spits into the wind, hitting himself in the eye, then happily sends Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to their deaths. ... Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are not two people trying to find meaning in their lives after a loss...

• Word Count: 3860
• Approx Pages: 15
• Grade Level: High School