Hamlet 2.2 Discussion: Bloody, Bawdy Villain

The transcript discusses the historical belief that the liver was the source of anger, and how Hamlet accuses himself of lacking this emotion. Hamlet's self-criticism stems from his inability to feel anger towards oppression. He imagines that if he could feel this anger, he would have already avenged Claudius. The narrative shifts as Hamlet's thoughts about Claudius's crimes finally provoke his anger, redirecting his insults from himself to his enemy.

What change occurs in Hamlet's focus when he thinks about Claudius's crimes?

How do the insults in Hamlet's speech shift in their target?