๐ Topic Summary
While Shakespeare wrote *Hamlet* long before the Realism movement took hold in the 19th century, the play contains elements that foreshadow its development. *Hamlet*'s focus on complex characters grappling with everyday problems, psychological depth, and a departure from idealized portrayals aligns with core tenets of Realism. The play explores the messy realities of human nature and political intrigue, rather than focusing solely on heroic ideals or romantic adventures. By showcasing the flaws and contradictions within its characters and society, *Hamlet* can be seen as a precursor to the more overt Realism that would follow centuries later.
๐ง Part A: Vocabulary
Match the term with its definition:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Soliloquy |
A. The use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices. |
| 2. Aside |
B. A long speech expressing the thoughts of a character alone on stage. |
| 3. Irony |
C. A remark or passage in a play that is intended to be heard by the audience but unheard by the other characters in the play. |
| 4. Catharsis |
D. The expression of one's meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite, typically for humorous or emphatic effect. |
| 5. Satire |
E. The process of releasing, and thereby providing relief from, strong or repressed emotions. |
โ๏ธ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the paragraph with the missing words:
Hamlet is often considered a __________ tragedy because of its focus on internal _________ and psychological __________ rather than external action. This __________ with the traditional revenge tragedy, making it a precursor to the __________ of Realism.
- ๐ค Possible words: conflict, break, elements, introspective, depth
๐ง Part C: Critical Thinking
How does *Hamlet*'s portrayal of political corruption and moral ambiguity relate to the themes often explored in Realist literature?