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Questions and Answers
What does Hamlet mean when he says 'Now might I do it pat, now he is praying'?
What does Hamlet mean when he says 'Now might I do it pat, now he is praying'?
- He is contemplating the meaning of life.
- He feels confident in his actions.
- He can easily kill Claudius now. (correct)
- He wishes he could be a coward.
What does Hamlet mean when he says 'But I am pigeon-livered and lack gall'?
What does Hamlet mean when he says 'But I am pigeon-livered and lack gall'?
He considers himself a coward.
What does Hamlet mean by 'Why, what an ass am I!'?
What does Hamlet mean by 'Why, what an ass am I!'?
He criticizes his own inaction.
The phrase 'To be or not to be' signifies Hamlet's decisive nature.
The phrase 'To be or not to be' signifies Hamlet's decisive nature.
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Study Notes
Quotes on Hamlet's Indecision and Inaction
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"Now might I do it pat, now he is praying."
- Act 3, Scene 3 highlights Hamlet's hesitance; he acknowledges the opportunity to kill Claudius but refrains, reflecting his internal conflict.
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"But I am pigeon-livered and lack gall."
- Act 2, Scene 2 reveals Hamlet's self-perception as cowardly. He critiques his own nature for failing to take decisive action against Claudius.
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"Why, what an ass am I!"
- Act 2, Scene 2 features Hamlet's self-deprecating remarks in a soliloquy, emphasizing his frustration with his inability to act despite having the motivation for vengeance.
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"To be or not to be."
- Act 3, Scene 1 presents one of Hamlet's most famous soliloquies where he contemplates existence and death, showcasing his deep philosophical introspection that contributes to his procrastination.
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