Part one of term paper
In William Shakespeare's , the protagonist exhibits a puzzling, duplicitous nature. contradicts himself throughout the play. He endorses both the virtues of acting a role and that of being true to one's self. He further supports both of these conflicting endorsements with his actions. This ambiguity is demonstrated by his alleged madness, fo ...

Part two of term paper
... for this teetering is directly related to his inability to form a solid opinion about role playing. This difficulty is not present, however, at the start of the play. In the first act, appears to be very straightforward in his actions and inner state. When questioned by Gertrude about his melancholy appearance, says, "Seems, madam? Nay it is. I know not 'seems.' (1.2.76). This is to say "I am what I appear to be." Later In Act I, makes a clear statement about his state when he commits himself to ...