“Do you see yonder cloud that’s almost in shape of a camel?Polonius: By the mass, and ‘tis like a camel, indeed.Hamlet: Methinks it is like a weasel.Polonius: It is backed like a weasel.Hamlet: Or like a whale?Polonius: Very like a whale.”
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Shakespearean dialogue in "Hamlet"
In this exchange between Hamlet and Polonius in Shakespeare's play "Hamlet," the characters are discussing the shapes of clouds in the sky. Their differing perspectives on what the cloud resembles illustrates their different ways of thinking.
Quote Analysis
In this quote from William Shakespeare's play Hamlet, Hamlet and Polonius are discussing the shapes of clouds in the sky. The exchange highlights the subjective nature of perception and how different people can see things in various ways. The back and forth between Hamlet and Polonius also hints at the idea that people may interpret the same object differently based on their own experiences and perspectives. This playful banter serves as a reflection of the broader themes of appearance versus reality and the complexity of human perception in the play.
Modern Relevance
In this exchange from William Shakespeare's play "Hamlet," the characters Hamlet and Polonius are discussing the shapes of clouds in the sky. This humorous exchange highlights the subjective nature of perception and how two people can interpret the same thing differently. In today's world, where misinformation and fake news abound, this scene serves as a reminder of the importance of critical thinking and questioning what we see and hear. Just as Hamlet and Polonius see different shapes in the same cloud, it's essential to consider multiple perspectives and sources before forming conclusions.
Reflection Questions:
In this famous exchange from William Shakespeare's "Hamlet," the characters Hamlet and Polonius are looking at clouds and seeing different shapes. This dialogue points to the subjectivity of perception and interpretation. Here are some reflection questions to consider:
- How does this passage highlight the idea that two people can look at the same thing and see it differently?
- How might our personal experiences and biases influence how we perceive the world around us?
- How does this dialogue speak to the nature of reality and truth in the play as a whole?
- In what ways can this passage be interpreted as a commentary on the human condition and the limitations of perception?
- How might this scene be relevant to our own lives and the way we view the world around us?
Similar quotes
“My lord, the queen would speak with you, and presently.HAMLET Do you see yonder cloud that's almost in shape of a camel?POLONIUS By th'mass, and 'tis like a camel indeed.HAMLET Methinks it is like a weasel.POLONIUS It is backed like a weasel.HAMLET Or like a whale?POLONIUS Very like a whale.HAMLET Then I will come to my mother by and by. - They fool me to the top of my bent. - I will come by and by.”
“What do you read, my lord? Hamlet: Words, words, words. Lord Polonius: What is the matter, my lord? Hamlet: Between who? Lord Polonius: I mean, the matter that you read, my lord.”
“Where is Polonius?- In heaven; send hither to see: if your messenger find him not there, seek him i' the other place yourself.”
“More grief to hide than hate to utter love. Polonius, Hamlet.”
“Use them after your own honour and dignity; the less they deserve, the more merit in your bounty. - Hamlet to Polonius”
“I will receive it sir with all diligence of spirit. Put your bonnet to his right use, 'tis for the head.OSRIC I thank you lordship, it is very hot.HAMLET No believe me, 'tis very cold, the wind is northerly.OSRIC It is indifferent cold my lord, indeed.HAMLET But yet methinks it is very sultry and hot for my complexion.OSRIC Exceedingly my lord, it is very sultry, as 'twere - I cannot tell how. But my lord, his majesty bade me signify to you that a has laid a great wager on your head. Sir, this is the matter -HAMLET I beseech you remember.(Hamlet moves him to put on his hat)”