Hamlet Quotes + Their Meanings/Explanations

"Hamlet Quotes" refers to a compilation of notable lines and dialogues from William Shakespeare's renowned play, Hamlet. These quotes encapsulate the depth and complexity of the characters, the intricacies of the plot, and the underlying themes explored throughout the play.

Ranging from introspective soliloquies to poignant exchanges between characters, the "Hamlet Quotes" offer profound insights into human nature, morality, and the human condition. As a result, they have become iconic and widely studied, continuing to captivate readers and theatergoers alike with their timeless relevance and poetic brilliance.

Below are various hamlet quotes with their meanings/explanations;

“God hath given you one face, and you make yourself another.” – Hamlet

As humans, we are constantly creating and redefining ourselves. It is a natural part of our development as individuals. We grow, learn, and change based on the interactions we have with the world around us. However, some people choose to do this process in an unhealthy way. They try to change their appearance to match what they believe is the “ideal” version of themselves. This can be incredibly damaging psychologically and emotionally.

“Now cracks a noble heart. Good night, sweet prince; and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.” – Hamlet

The quote reflects the sadness that the characters feel after killing each other. The quote can be seen as a metaphor for how life suddenly ends and all that is left is death.

“So full of artless jealousy is guilt, It spills itself in fearing to be spilled.” – Hamlet

Jealousy has always been a difficult emotion to understand. It is often portrayed as a mindless, destructive force, but in reality it is a complex and nuanced emotion. One of the things that makes jealousy so tricky to understand is that it can be full of artless jealousy or guilt. The former is more outwardly displayed and can involve feelings of spite and anger, while guilt is more inwardly felt and involves feelings of self-loathing and regret.

“There are more things in Heaven and Earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy.” – Hamlet

The world is full of surprises waiting to be discovered. From the most unlikely of places, there can be found beauty and wisdom waiting to be discovered. The world is a huge place and it's only through exploration that we can find out all that it has to offer. Life is too short to not explore and see what's out there.

“To die: to sleep; No more; and by a sleep to say we end the heart-ache and the thousand natural shocks that flesh is heir to, ‘tis a consummation devoutly to be wish’d.” – Hamlet

For most of us, however, death is something that we fear and dread. We want to live forever, or at least as long as possible. But death is inevitable - sooner or later, we all must face it head-on.

“If your mind dislikes anything obey it.” – Hamlet

If you have a mind that dislikes anything, then it is time to start obeying it. You need to find something that you like and focus on that. Once you find something that you like, then you can focus on what makes that thing good. When you do this, your mind will start to like the things that are good for you.

“But break, my heart, for I must hold my tongue.” – Hamlet

This quote Is a metaphor for speaking one's mind. He believes that it is important to be able to express oneself freely, even if it means breaking someone's heart.

“Where love is great, the little doubts are fear; Where little fears grow great, great love grows there.” – Hamlet

Love is a feeling that fills one with warmth and happiness. It is the perfect emotion that can make anyone feel good. However, love also has its challenges. One of the biggest challenges in love is overcoming fear. When fear is present, it can prevent couples from being able to have a strong relationship. However, when love is great, the little doubts are fear; and great love grows where little fears grow.

“He is dead and gone, lady, he is dead and gone; At his head a grass-green turf, at his heels a stone.” – Hamlet

He is dead and gone, lady, he is dead and gone; At his head a grass-green turf, at his heels a stone. The poet writes of the man who has passed away. He has seen the world and experienced all that life has to offer. He is now gone and can never come back.

“Our wills and fates do so contrary run.” – Hamlet

We often assume that the things we do will have a direct impact on our future, but that's not always the case. In fact, many of the things we do don't actually have any direct effect on our lives at all.

“There is special providence in the fall of a sparrow.” – Hamlet

There is something special about the fall of a sparrow. It always seems to bring good luck and happiness to those who see it. This may be because of the symbolism associated with this season. The leaves on the trees are changing colors, and the weather is getting colder. All of these things remind us that life is going to change soon.

“I must, like a whore, unpack my heart with words.” – Hamlet

He is unsure how to unpack his heart with words. This sentiment is echoed by many people, and for good reason. Words can be powerful tools, but often we don't know how to use them correctly.

“It is not nor it cannot come to good.” – William Shakespeare, Hamlet

The quote is used to describe the impossibility of a positive outcome in a situation. This quote is often used when someone has made a decision that they know will not lead to a desirable outcome.

“There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.”  -Hamlet

This is one of the most important messages that we can learn in life. The power of our thoughts can determine whether we are happy or sad, successful or unsuccessful. Our thoughts are what create our reality.

“Madness in great ones must not unwatch go.” – Hamlet

Thoughts of madness tend to plague great minds for a reason. It is the birthplace of creativity, inspiration, and innovation. Unfortunately, for many great ones, this creativity and inspiration can end up in madness. This is not something that should be taken lightly as it can have serious consequences both mentally and physically. Those who are afflicted with madness must be watched carefully to make sure they do not go off the deep end.

“To be, or not to be: that is the question.” – Hamlet

The quote is from William Shakespeare's play, Hamlet. It is usually translated to "To be or not to be, that is the question" but there are other translations that are more accurate. In the play, Hamlet is struggling with whether or not he should kill himself. He has been told by his father that he will either be a great king or a great prince, but he doesn't know if he can be both.

“This is the very ecstasy of love, whose violent property or does itself and leads the will to desperate undertakings.” – Hamlet

Ecstasy is a feeling of intense pleasure or joy. Some people experience ecstasy when they are in the midst of an intimate relationship, when they are listening to music or when they are experiencing some other form of pleasure. Ecstasy can be a very violent property, and it often leads the will to desperate undertakings.

“Remember me.” – Hamlet

The world is a small place. You never know when you're going to meet someone again. That's why it's important to take the time to remember people. Sometimes, we meet someone and they quickly leave our lives. We can't help but wonder what might have been if we remembered them better.

“Tis in my memory lock’d, And you yourself shall keep the key of it.”  -Hamlet

The poem is about a man who loves a woman who is married to someone else. The man wants to tell her how he feels, but he doesn't know how to do it. He also doesn't want to hurt her feelings.

“One may smile, and smile, and be a villain.” – Hamlet

Smiling can be seen as a friendly gesture, but it is also a way to conceal one's true feelings. Psychologists have long known that smiling can influence people's moods, and recent research has shown that it can even make people more aggressive. In one study, participants were asked to perform a task that required them to make decisions quickly. Those who had been instructed to smile while doing the task made more decisions that were considered harmful than those who had been instructed not to smile.

“If it is now, ’tis not to come. If it is not to come, it will be now. If it is not now, yet it will come-the readiness is all.” -Hamlet

The quote is used to reassure people that what they are doing is best for them and their future.

“The lady doth protest too much, methinks.” -Hamlet

The quote, "The lady doth protest too much, methinks," is one that has been used throughout history. It is often used to describe people who are overreacting or who are not taking the situation seriously. This quote is often used to make a point or to criticize someone.

“My words fly up, my thoughts remain below: Words without thoughts never to heaven go.” – Hamlet

Thoughts are the engine that drives our actions, and without them, we may find ourselves stuck in ruts or unable to progress. The ability to think clearly and creatively is essential for success in any field, and can be learned through practice. By regularly engaging in thoughtful activities, we can help propel our minds to new heights.

“Thou know’st ‘tis common; all that lives must die, Passing through nature to eternity.” – Hamlet

Death is a natural process that happens to everyone. Birth and death are the two opposite ends of life. Death is the end of one life, but the beginning of another. All living things go through a cycle of dying and being reborn.

“Words, words, words.” -Hamlet

Words are powerful. They can define who we are and what we stand for. They can make us feel happy or sad, loved or hated. They can help us connect with others and express our feelings. But words also have the power to hurt, damage, and even kill. What we say matters, and it can have a powerful impact on others. So it's important to be careful what words we use and how we say them.

“Bad deeds will be revealed, no matter how people try to hide them.” – William Shakespeare, Hamlet

People often try to hide their bad deeds, but it's impossible to keep them secret forever. In fact, some secrets will eventually be revealed, no matter how hard people try to keep them buried. These secrets can lead to criminal charges, and sometimes even jail time.

“Doubt thou the stars are fire; Doubt that the sun doth move; Doubt truth be a liar; But never doubt I love.” – Hamlet

No matter what people say, doubt is always a part of life. Unfortunately, it can take over and make us question everything we know. We may doubt the stars are fire, the sun moves, or even the truth. But no matter how much doubt we feel, we should never doubt that we love. These five simple words are the foundation of our entire lives and should never be doubted.

“I shall speak daggers to her, but I will use none.” – Hamlet

The quote is attributed to Shakespeare. It is a famous line from his play "Othello." The play is about a man who is jealous and angry towards his wife.

“The very substance of the ambitious is merely the shadow of a dream.” – William Shakespeare, Hamlet

Dreams are a product of the human imagination. They are what we make of them and how we interpret them. Some dreams are just simple fantasies, some are prophetic and some represent our own personal journey. Dreams can be helpful in terms of learning and growth, but they can also be dangerous if not managed correctly.

“There is neither good nor bad, but thinking makes it so.” – Hamlet

Every person has their own perspective, and unless you share the same one as them, you will likely never see things from their perspective. This is why it is so important to think for yourself and not just blindly follow the opinion of others. The truth is, there is neither good nor bad, but thinking makes it so.

“Get thee to a nunnery.” -Hamlet

Nuns have been around for centuries and have played an important role in society. They are known for their calm demeanor, intelligence, and strong sense of community. Despite being known for their serenity, many nuns also dedicate themselves to social activism. There are many different types of nuns, including cloistered nuns who live in a convent or other type of religious community, and peripatetic nuns who travel around to provide services.

“For some must watch, while some must sleep so runs the world away.” – William Shakespeare, Hamlet

It has been said that some must watch, while some must sleep so runs the world away. For many people, work is their life and they cannot afford to miss even a single day of it. However, for others there is a certain peace and tranquility that can be found sleeping. Regardless of how you choose to spend your time, there are some shows that are definitely worth watching.

“Rich gifts wax poor when givers prove unkind.” – Hamlet

Giving someone a gift is supposed to be a heartfelt gesture of goodwill, but for some people, it seems that the act of generosity can quickly become tainted when the giver is unkind.

“I must be cruel only to be kind; thus bad begins, and worse remains behind.” – Hamlet

The quote is often used to describe the theory that bad things happen as a result of good intentions. The theory goes that if somebody is kind to someone else, that person may inadvertently cause that person to do something bad in return.

“A knavish speech sleeps in a fool’s ear.” – Hamlet

A knavish speech sleeps in a fool's ear. It is the kind of talk that delights in betrayal, cunning and gamesmanship - the very qualities that make it so dangerous. The proverb goes that wisdom is better than weapons of war, but this wisdom can often be thwarted by a clever enemy. As any seasoned strategist will tell you, the best way to foil your opponent's plans is to know what they are before they even happen.

“Nature is fine in love, and where ’tis fine, it sends some precious instance of itself after the thing it loves.” – William Shakespeare, Hamlet

Love is a powerful emotion that can be felt by both people in a relationship. It can make people feel happy and satisfied, even when they're facing difficult times. However, love also has its own set of challenges and problems. One of the most common issues couples face is disagreements about how to spend their time together. In order to avoid arguments, it's important for both people to respect each other's opinions.

“The Devil hath power to assume a pleasing shape.” – Hamlet

The devil has the power to assume a pleasing shape. In this way, he is able to deceive and mislead those who would oppose him. He can also take on the form of an angel or a saint, in order to gain the trust of those he wishes to deceive. The devil is also known for his cunning and his ability to lie in wait for unsuspecting victims.

“To be honest, as this world goes, is to be one man picked out of ten thousand.” – Hamlet

The odds are against you, and no matter how hard you try, you'll never be able to change that. But that doesn't mean you can't have a good life - if you approach life with the right attitude.

“Conscience doth make cowards of us all.” – Hamlet

The conscience is often seen as a hindrance to the actions that we take in life. However, the conscience can also be a source of strength for those who have it. The conscience can be a source of comfort and guidance when we are faced with difficult decisions. It can also be a source of motivation to act in accordance with our values and beliefs.

“Listen to many, speak to few.” – Hamlet

There are many benefits to speaking with a few people rather than listening to many. For one, it can be more efficient. When speaking with a few people, you can get more out of them since they will have more to share. Additionally, when listening to many people, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and distracted. By speaking with a few people, you can gain a better understanding of their perspective and what they have to say.

“I loved Ophelia. Forty thousand brothers could not, with all their quantity of love, make up my sum.” – Hamlet

In William Shakespeare's play, Hamlet, Ophelia speaks these words to her father, Polonius: " Forty thousand brothers could not with all their quantity of love, make up my sum." This quote has been interpreted in many ways. Some believe that Ophelia means that her love is greater than the love of all her brothers combined. Others think that she is saying that her love is infinite.

“To die, to sleep-to sleep perchance to dream-ay, there’s the rub, for in this sleep of death what dreams may come.” – Hamlet

Many believe that when we die, our consciousness transfers to the afterworld. Some believe that this is a happy place where we can live happily ever after. Others believe that this is a place of pain and suffering. No one really knows for sure what happens when we die. What we do know is that death is a sleep that can also bring us dreams.

“A man may fish with the worm that hath eat of a king, and eat of the fish that hath fed of that worm.” – Hamlet

This quote is often used to illustrate the principle that it is okay to take advantage of someone who is better than you. In this case, the worm is taking advantage of the fish, which are feeding off of it.

“There’s rosemary, that’s for remembrance. Pray you, love, remember.” – Hamlet

There is rosemary, which is for remembrance. Pray you, love, remember and keep it with you always. Carry it with you in your heart. Remember the happy moments and the sad ones; remember who you used to be and who you are now. The rosemary will remind you of all the good times and will keep you from forgetting the people who mean the most to you.

“If we are true to ourselves, we can not be false to anyone.” – Hamlet

We must live our lives in accordance with our values, and if we do this, then others will also be true to themselves and be honest with us. This is the foundation of relationships - when both people are living by their values, they can trust and respect one another. When we're dishonest with ourselves, it's difficult to be honest with others, and eventually this creates distance between us.

“Let the doors be shut upon him, that he may play the fool nowhere but in’s own house.” – Hamlet

The phrase aptly describes one of the key dangers of narcissism: that it can lead to self-imposed isolation.

“Sweets to the sweet.” – Hamlet

When someone says "sweets to the sweet," they are likely referring to something that is pleasant and enjoyable. The phrase has been around for centuries and is still used today. It is often used as a way to show appreciation for something or someone.

“Give me that man that is not passion’s slave, and I will wear him in my heart’s core, in my heart of heart, as I do thee.” -Hamlet

Passion is something that can be both a good and bad thing. On the one hand, it can help us to feel alive and engaged in the world around us. On the other hand, too much passion can lead to reckless behavior or even hurt others.

“Sir, in my heart there was a kind of fighting that would not let me sleep.” – Hamlet

Passion is something that can be both a good and bad thing. On the one hand, it can help us to feel alive and engaged in the world around us. On the other hand, too much passion can lead to reckless behavior or even hurt others.

“He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again.” -Hamlet

quote: "He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again." These are the words of a man who has seen and experienced much in life. He speaks from personal experience, and what he has to say is worth listening to.

“You cannot, sir, take from me anything that I will more willingly part withal: except my life, except my life, except my life.” – Hamlet

The phrase is a line from the play Macbeth. The line is often used as a metaphor for how valuable something is to the speaker. This phrase is often used in negotiations where someone wants to protect something they value.

“No, no, he is dead, Go to thy death-bed: He will never come again.” – Hamlet

In this quote, he is warning the young couple that their love will never be requited and that they should go to their deathbed with the hope that they will be reunited in the afterlife.

“There’s a divinity that shapes our ends, Rough-hew them how we will.” – Hamlet

Whether we realize it or not, this all-powerful force is constantly at work in the world around us. From the moment we are born, fate is guiding us towards our destiny. And whether we like it or not, there is no escaping the hand of fate.

“Death, the undiscovered country, from whose bourn no traveler returns.” – Hamlet

Death is a topic that is often avoided by people, but it should not be. It is a natural part of life and should not be feared. Death should also not be the only thing we fear, because it is destined to happen to everyone. We should instead fear the things that we cannot control, such as our health and how we die. Death should not be the undiscovered country, because there are many things that still remain unknown about it.

“She is so conjunctive to my life and soul.” – Hamlet

This quote from a man speaks to the profound connection he has with his wife. He loves her deeply and considers her a vital part of his life. She provides stability and balance to his life, making it all feel much more complete.

“When sorrows come, they come not single spies. But in battalions!” – Hamlet

When sorrows come, they come in battalions. They come as a group, as an overwhelming force that can crush your spirit and take away your hope. But you don't have to be alone when these feelings arrive. There are people who care about you and will support you during this time. Reach out to them, and let them know that you need their help.

“Though this be madness, yet there is method in’t.” – Hamlet

Though this be madness, there is a method in the madness. This is what some may call a lucid dream, and it is one of the most fascinating experiences a person can have. Lucid dreams are dreams in which the dreamer is aware that they are dreaming and able to control their dreams. In a lucid dream, you can interact with your dreams and even make decisions that affect the course of the dream.

“There are daggers in men’s smiles.” – William Shakespeare, Hamlet

Daggers in men's smiles are a reality for many women. These hidden knives can often cause pain and hurt, especially when they're left unsaid. Women have been socialized to be hypersensitive to any hint of male hostility or aggression. They may interpret a benign smile as an insult or threat, when in reality the man may not even be aware of what he's doing.

“The rest, is silence.” – Hamlet

This quote conveys the idea that life is full of mysteries that we can never fully understand.

“A little more than kin, a little less than kind.” – Hamlet

In the animal kingdom, kin are the closest thing to family. They are there for support and help when needed, and will defend their territory and offspring fiercely. In humans, however, kin often falls short of fulfilling that role. Humans are meant to be more than just family; we're supposed to be a little more than kin, a little less than kind. Kin may provide emotional support, but they don't always offer financial help or practical assistance. That's where charity comes in.

“Too much of water hast thou, poor Ophelia, And therefore I forbid my tears.” -Hamlet

Water can be seen as a symbol of life. In the quote, "Too much of water hast thou, poor Ophelia," Shakespeare is warning her that she should not cry too much because it will make her look weak. He is also saying that she does not have enough water to support her tears and so he forbids them.

“This above all: to thine own self be true.” – Hamlet

Self-confidence is a key ingredient to success. It can be cultivated by fostering a positive self-image, setting personal goals, and taking pride in accomplishments. One of the most important things we can do to build self-confidence is to be authentic and truthful to ourselves. This means being true to our thoughts, feelings, and intentions. If we're honest with ourselves, we can develop trust in our own abilities and become more resilient when faced with challenges.

“O God, I could be bound in a nutshell, and count myself a king of infinite space-were it not that I have bad dreams.” – Hamlet

The quote is often used to describe how limited a human's life can be if they allow themselves to be trapped in a situation where they have no control.

“Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.” -Hamlet

Denmark's welfare system is in deep trouble and it's not just because of the country's ballooning budget deficit. Systemic problems with the way Denmark delivers social services have created a populace that is increasingly resentful and angry. Denmark's generous welfare system has become a major source of its economic woes, as people are no longer willing to work hard in order to receive government assistance.

“Lord, we know what we are, but know not what we may be.” – Hamlet

The quote, "Lord, we know what we are, but know not what we may be.." delves into the idea of identity, and how it can change over time. It discusses how people can be unaware of their potential, and how God sees all of us - both good and bad.

“More matter with less art.” – Hamlet

This quote sums up his opinion on the matter/art debate. He believes that more matter with less art is best, as this will produce more efficient results. This is because more efficient methods will be used to achieve the desired outcome, which in turn will save time and money.

“Give every man thine ear, but few thy voice; Take each man’s censure but reserve thy judgment.” – Hamlet

Every man has an opinion, but few have the courage to speak up. Take each man's criticism, but reserve your judgment. It is important to give everyone your ear, but be selective about what you say out loud. It is often better to withhold your opinion until you have more information. Only then can you form a fair and unbiased judgment.

“Brevity is the soul of wit.” – Hamlet

Humor is often based on the use of brevity. When we are able to communicate our thoughts in a concise manner, we are able to create humor. There are many different types of humor, but brevity is often the soul of wit. With so many distractions in our society, it is important to be able to communicate with others in a way that is easy to understand. By using brevity, we can focus on the message and not on the delivery.

“To be or not to be that is the question.” – William Shakespeare, Hamlet

The decision to be or not to be has been pondered by the greatest minds for centuries. To some, it seems like a trivial question - something that is easily resolved with a simple answer. But to others, it represents an eternal question that can never be answered.

“Give thy thoughts no tongue.” – Hamlet

Thought is the root of all action. It is the first step in any journey and the beginning of wisdom. The ability to think for yourself is the key to success. We should never forget that. Thinking without words is one of the most important skills we can learn. It is a way to connect with ourselves and our thoughts. It is also a way to communicate with others. Thought can be powerful because it can change our lives.

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