Examples Of Bipolar Disorder In Hamlet

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Hamlet is the main character in Shakespeare's play who endures various emotional states and is often analyzed for his interesting psychological attitudes. Throughout the play, Hamlet goes through the complex mental states of passive-aggressive personality and bipolar disorder. Hamlet’s bipolar disorder is quickly revealed because of the situations and personal issues he faces. He experiences extreme mood swings and is often in states of mind where he is low and depressed, while other times he is energetic and full of excitement. For example, in Act II, Scene II, Hamlet explains, “What a piece of work is a man…Man delights not me, nor woman neither.” In the first part of the line, he explains the beauty of humanity and delights in its fascination. …show more content…

AT times, he behaves in a way where it is difficult for others to decipher, and other times, he is his authentic self. He knows when to act as himself, and other times he will act as someone no one can read. For instance, in Act II, Scene II, Hamlet explains to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, “I am but mad north-north-west. When the wind is southerly, I know a hawk from a handsaw.” In this instance, Hamlet pretends to act insane but subtly reveals his motives when he alludes to the fact that he knows when to act sane and insane. The fact that Hamlet said that the wind is southerly means that the wind blows away the clouds, which let Hamlet peer into Claudius’s and his enemies' motives and tricks. Because of this, he can play his cards skillfully and caustically, by acting strange at the right …show more content…

For example, Rosencrantz, Guildenstern, and others pretend that his madness simply does not exist and try to brush it off. Justifiably, Hamlet’s problem isn’t their issue, and they should not feel as though they should take any responsibility for his insanity. However, characters like Ophelia notice and acknowledge Hamlet’s behavior but are unable to help him, as his act of madness overrules sanity. Hamlet's act benefited and also backfired his plan. It benefited him where it allowed him to speak his mind in ways where others couldn’t quite comprehend and, therefore, was left out from the truth. Having said that, his act was counterproductive as at times, and his madness may have caused him to act too impulsively, which led to his ultimate

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