Mortality in Act III Video

“To be, or not to be, that is the question.” This line in Shakespeare’s Hamlet, his famous tragedy written around 1601, is one of the most quoted in literary history. But how do these words fit into the play as a whole? In this video, we’ll dive into how Hamlet’s famous lines constitute a reflection or meditation on mortality. In fact, we’ll see how the idea of mortality establishes and propels Hamlet’s actions in the play.

In Act Three’s opening scene, the audience finds Hamlet grieving his father’s death while also coming to terms with the fact that his mother has married Uncle Claudius, his father’s murderer. Hamlet is overcome with feelings of distrust and betrayal, and he turns his personal sentiments into a more general existential inquiry. When Hamlet is questioning “to be or not to be,” (as recited at the beginning of this video) he is pondering the agony and pain of human existence––feelings he is experiencing first handedly.

The prince thus begins to consider life’s alternative: death. He wonders if suicide is the best option, as it may end the suffering that plagues him. However, upon further consideration, Hamlet begins to fear death’s uncertainty. What if the afterlife is more miserable than existence as he knows it? We’ve heard of moral dilemmas, but it seems like Hamlet is stuck in a mortal dilemma. The Prince’s conclusion? Well, he doesn’t quite come to one. This subject is tricky, and Hamlet is struck by indecisiveness.

Hamlet’s indecision is, ironically, what sets off the play's further actions. Frozen in place, Hamlet is forced to follow the advice of the only counsel he has––the ghost.

The ghost of Hamlet’s father can symbolize death quite literally looming over the Prince. The ghost is not only a constant reminder of mortality, but he represents Hamlet’s attempt to fill his life with meaning. If Hamlet kills Uncle Claudius, perhaps he will have accomplished something with his time on earth. Thus, the ghost––a symbol for mortality––sets Hamlet on his quest for vengeance.