from Amy

1. 2. 67-89

What is Shakespeare attemping to convey about Hamlet's character through his use of wit and humor in Hamlet's first spoken words?

I was struck by the myriad of constrasting responses I received from my peers regarding the way in which humor serves to illuminate aspects of Hamlet's character. It seems that a majority of those who responded expressed that humor conveys a sense of intelligence, and Hamlet's witty remarks demonstrate his ability to see beyond the pretensions of his current situation and develop his own, more profound understanding. Hamlet exhibits a painful self-awareness of the unnatural qualities of the incestuous relationship between his stepfather and mother, as salient when he says in an aside "A little more than kin and less than kind" (1. 2. 67). However, in contrast to the majority of my peers, one classmate suggested that Hamlet "turns to humor because of a lack of understanding" and argues that because he is confused by the world around him - which has been turned upside down - the only way he may make sense of it is by looking at it through the lens of humor. I agree that Hamlet's humor may serve as a means of escaping the grief of his father's death, as he may find relief in making light of a painful situation, but I do not feel that it reveals any lack of understanding. On the contrary, I believe it does reveal a sense of intelligence, as Hamlet's ability to see the absurdity of his situation demonstrates a sense of ironic detachment, which may potentially motivate him to seek change. Rather than wallow in self-pity, Hamlet proves to exhibit great maturity and view his situation in a different light. As suggested by anthropologist Elliott Oring, the awfulness of any disastrous situation is gradually remedied by time, and Hamlet's capacity to find light in his unfortunate situation in such a short period of time is a testament to his intellect and character.