What I think of Hamlet

So far Hamlet has proved a challenge for me. It's really difficult to get used to the language when reading The Grapes of Wrath at the same time. It's like going from one vernacular to the next and my brain is spinning! Even though TGOW is longer, I feel like it is easier to read. With Hamlet or any shakespeare play, I have to take my time and concentrate on every word. Sometimes this is frustrating because the acts are so small but it's taking up so much of my time! However, I do really respect the fact that Shakespeare's connotation of words have several meanings and they can totally change the way you read it. I think that adds to the play and the meaning over all.

Other than the language, I'm really enjoying the story line. Mrs. Clinch was right, it really is like a medieval soap opera! I had a feeling that Claudius had something to do with King Hamlet's death. And I also have a feeling that something was going on between Claudius and Gertrude before Hamlet's death. I feel really bad for Hamlet right now. I would be just as sad and mad if my parents and uncle were doing that! I really respect Hamlet's character too (so far). He loves his father, he respects his mother even though he knows what she is doing is wrong, and he is not okay with what his uncle is doing.

I thought scene 4 was really intense, especially the part when Hamlet gets to talk to his father's ghost. I have so many questions about it. Like is the ghost telling the truth or is it lying? Did the ghost tell Hamlet to kill Claudius? What about his mother? Does he want revenge on her as well? I hope these questions will be answered soon and I can't wait to discuss more of the play!