Hamlet 3.1 Digging Deeper: Conscience and Cowardice

The transcript explores the theme of conscience in Shakespeare's Hamlet, focusing on how it can lead to cowardice by making individuals overthink the consequences of their actions, particularly regarding the afterlife. It discusses the dual meaning of 'conscience' as both intellectual reflection and moral judgement, and how this affects Hamlet's decision-making. The fear of hell and the moral implications of revenge are examined, highlighting the tension between cowardice and nobility in choosing the right course of action.

What dual meanings does Shakespeare attribute to the word 'conscience' in Hamlet's soliloquy?

• Fear and bravery

• Intellectual reflection and moral judgment

• Action and inaction

• Life and death

What is Hamlet questioning in his soliloquy regarding nobility?

• The morality of revenge

• Whether to live or die

• What is more virtuous: enduring suffering or taking action

• The existence of the afterlife

What fear does Hamlet reference that might prevent him from taking action?

• Fear of being judged by others

• Fear of going to hell

• Fear of being forgotten

• Fear of losing his kingdom

How does moral judgment potentially lead to cowardice according to the discussion?

• By promoting patience and endurance

• By causing indecision

• By making one overconfident

• By encouraging rash actions

What might seem cowardly but is suggested to be the right thing to do?

• Avoiding all risks

• Enduring life's hardships

• Seeking immediate justice

• Taking revenge