"Not where he eats, but where he is eaten: a certain convocation of politic worms are e'en at him. Your worm is our only emperor for diet: we fat all creatures else to fat us, and we fat ourselves for maggots: your fat king and your lean beggar is but variable service, – two dishes, but to one table: that's the end" (4.3.20-25). It is important to analyze passages within various plays, as many serve to develop conflict, character, and plot. Hamlet, written by William Shakespeare, being one of the most analyzed plays in existence, establishes the palpable theme of madness. There is a recurring question that exists being: "is Hamlet's 'antic disposition' (1.5.173) feigned or genuine?" Hamlet is wrought by overwhelming fits of madness at the knowledge of his father's death however, he has not lost his mind and only wishes to be deemed as insane. .
As Hamlet continuously displays numerous signs of madness, there is also a continual development of conflict. During Act 4, Scene 3 of Hamlet, the prince is often satirical in his responses. "Your worm is our only emperor for diet" (4.3.23) is an example of the sarcasm he displays whilst speaking to Claudius. This act of mockery is intentional to anger Claudius into committing a sin, as he has murdered King Hamlet, and the prince is now sorrowful. Earlier in the play, Hamlet devotes himself to disturb Claudius into confessing being the culprit of the murder; this was done by putting on a play that was almost identical to the actual murder. Claudius exclaims, "Have you heard the argument? Is there no offense in't?" (3.2.220-221), proving that the murder was indeed his fault. Hamlet's gestures demonstrate his personality, as well as allow the audience to personally connect to his character. .
Behaving erratically, the audience is able fully perceive the development of Hamlet's character. Being a dedicated university student whose studies were interrupted by the death of his father, Hamlet commences becoming contemplative on suicide.
