Hamlet's Revelation: Comparing Himself to Fortinbras

TLDRIn Act 4 Scene 4 of Hamlet, Hamlet compares himself to Fortinbras, criticizing his own failure to seek revenge for his father's murder. He is inspired by Fortinbras' determination to go to war for honor, even over a small piece of land. This comparison leads to a renewed resolution in Hamlet to fulfill the ghost's assignment.

Key insights

🤔Hamlet compares himself to Fortinbras, a prince who goes to war for honor.

💀Hamlet criticizes himself for not seeking revenge for his father's murder.

👑Fortinbras' determination to go to war inspires Hamlet.

🌍Fortinbras' goal is to obtain a small plot of land with little value.

💭Hamlet's comparison to Fortinbras leads to a renewed resolution to fulfill the ghost's assignment.

Q&A

Why does Hamlet compare himself to Fortinbras?

Hamlet compares himself to Fortinbras to criticize his own lack of action in seeking revenge for his father's murder.

What inspires Hamlet in this scene?

Hamlet is inspired by the determination with which Fortinbras goes to war for honor, even over a small piece of land.

What is Fortinbras' goal?

Fortinbras' goal is to obtain a small plot of land with little value.

Does Hamlet's comparison to Fortinbras lead to a change in his resolution?

Yes, Hamlet's comparison to Fortinbras leads to a renewed resolution to fulfill the ghost's assignment.

What is the significance of this scene in the context of the play?

This scene highlights Hamlet's introspection and self-criticism, as well as his growing determination to take action.

Timestamped Summary

00:00In Act 4 Scene 4 of Hamlet, Hamlet compares himself to Fortinbras, a prince who goes to war for honor.

00:27Hamlet criticizes himself for not seeking revenge for his father's murder.

00:44Fortinbras' determination to go to war inspires Hamlet.

01:13Fortinbras' goal is to obtain a small plot of land with little value.

01:35Hamlet's comparison to Fortinbras leads to a renewed resolution to fulfill the ghost's assignment.