Exploring the Endings of Hamlet: A Thematic Analysis

William Shakespeare's Hamlet is a play that has captivated audiences for centuries. The complexity of its plot and the depth of its characters continue to intrigue scholars, both academic and casual. Among the many elements that have drawn scrutiny, the ending of the play has perhaps been the most debated. The popular perception is that there are two main endings to Hamlet, but as we delve into the play, it becomes clear that each version serves its thematic purpose, albeit differently.

Traditional Endings of Hamlet

As far as I am aware, there are two traditional endings to Hamlet. The first is the more conventional one, often performed in its entirety, which spans approximately four hours of stage time. In this version, the Norwegian Threat theme is not neglected, and the play culminates with the Norwegian Surprise occupation of Elsinore by Fortinbras. This ending highlights the dire consequences of internal power struggles and how they leave a nation vulnerable to foreign invasions. The second version, commonly achieved through the ellipse of many passages and themes deemed less significant, tends to skip over the Norwegian Threat and instead arrives at a bloody conclusion where nearly all the main characters are eliminated.

The Single Ending of Hamlet

Despite the existence of these two versions, there is only one ending to Hamlet, as there are consequences for the Danish court. The text does not suggest that the court leaves to vacation in Provence or any other location. Towards the end of the play, the stage indeed becomes littered with bodies, as Horatio bids the audience farewell, hoping that the dead may rest peacefully. This is a crucial moment in the play, as it signifies the tragic outcome of Hamlet's quest for revenge. The play is, after all, a tragedy, and the ultimate conclusion perpetuates the idea that vengeance often comes at a great cost.

The Significance of Vengeance and Cost

Shakespeare's use of a tragic ending serves multiple purposes. Central to this is the theme of vengeance, a concept that is both alluring and problematic. Hamlet's struggle to exact revenge against his uncle Claudius is a focal point of the play. However, it is through this pursuit of vengeance that the true dire consequences of his actions are revealed. As the play reaches its climax, the audience witnesses a series of deaths that could be seen as a metaphor for the cyclical nature of violence and the moral ambiguity it brings. The deaths are not just a resolution to the plot; they are a statement on the nature of human conflict and the toll it takes.

The Norwegian Threat and Its Impact

The Norwegian Threat theme is a critical element in the second ending. When this theme is not neglected, the nation of Denmark, as a whole, is left in a vulnerable state. By leaving the country open to invasion and occupation, the power struggle among the Danish rulers leads to its downfall. This ending serves to reiterate the importance of stable governance and the detrimental effects of internal strife. It underscores the playwright's belief that unity and cooperation, rather than division and conflict, are necessary for a nation's survival. This thematic conclusion highlights the Shakespearean view that peace and stability are essential for a society's well-being.

Conclusion

The different endings of Hamlet, while differing in their narrative structure, share a common thematic message. Whether the Norwegian Threat is present or not, the ultimate message is clear: the pursuit of personal revenge often leads to a price that is too high to pay. The ending where the court leaves to Provence is an incomplete version that misses the profound thematic depth of the play. Shakespeare leaves us with an ending that is both powerful and thought-provoking, a final tableau that lingers in the minds of viewers and readers alike.

Related Keywords

Hamlet ending

Explore the various endings and their implications in Shakespeare's Hamlet.

Shakespearean tragedy

Learn about the characteristics and themes of tragic plays, as exemplified in Hamlet.

Norwegian Threat theme

Delve into the significance of the Norwegian Threat in the context of Hamlet's narrative and themes.