为本篇论文写一个摘要。Gertrude in Shakespeare’s Hamlet: A Multi-dimensional Analysis

Introduction

Gertrude, the mother of Hamlet in Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet, is an intriguing character who has been the subject of much debate and speculation. Some critics view her as a shallow, immoral, and manipulative woman who lacks empathy and loyalty, while others view her as a misunderstood character who is caught in the middle of a power struggle. This paper offers a multi-dimensional analysis of Gertrude, examining her character development and motivations through different lenses, including gender, psychology, historical context, and literary conventions.

Gender Analysis

Gender plays a crucial role in shaping Gertrude’s character and her relationships with other characters in the play. As a female character in a male-dominated society, Gertrude experiences both power and powerlessness. On the one hand, she is a queen and has access to the throne and all the privileges that come with it. On the other hand, she is subjected to the patriarchal norms that require her to be submissive and passive. Her relationship with her husband, King Hamlet, reflects this power dynamic. In the opening scene, Gertrude is described as “our sometime sister, now our Queen,” which suggests that her identity is defined by her marriage to the king. She is expected to be obedient and loyal to her husband, but her remarriage to Claudius after King Hamlet’s death is seen as a violation of those norms.

Furthermore, Gertrude’s relationship with her son, Hamlet, is also complicated by gender expectations. Gertrude embodies the maternal figure, yet her affection and loyalty to her son are often questioned. Hamlet’s anger and resentment towards his mother’s remarriage reflect his fear of losing his place in her affections, as well as broader anxieties about his own masculinity and identity. This is exemplified in Act 3, Scene 4, where Hamlet accuses Gertrude of being “too much in the sun” and reducing herself “to an ant,” suggesting that she has surrendered her power to the male figures around her.

Psychological Analysis

Gertrude’s character development is also driven by her psychological state. Her actions can be seen as stemming from a desire to protect her own mental and emotional stability. Gertrude’s reaction to her husband’s death is a prime example of this emotional instability. She appears to be deeply affected by the loss, yet she remarries quickly, suggesting that she is trying to escape her grief. Her desire for emotional stability is evident in Act 3, Scene 4, where she becomes angry and upset when Hamlet confronts her about her relationship with Claudius. Gertrude’s response is defensive, suggesting that she is trying to protect herself from the uncomfortable emotions that the situation provokes.

Historical Context Analysis

Gertrude’s character is also shaped by the historical context in which the play was written. The Elizabethan era was a time of social and political upheaval, with changes in religious, cultural, and economic practices impacting people’s lives. Women’s roles in society were particularly restricted, with few opportunities for education or employment. Gertrude’s behavior can be interpreted as reflecting these societal norms and expectations. Her compliance with patriarchal expectations of women, as seen in her remarriage to Claudius, can be seen as a reflection of her dependence upon male figures for survival and security.

Furthermore, Gertrude’s relationship with Claudius can also be seen in a broader political context. His usurpation of the throne reflects the political instability of the time, with power struggles and intrigues prevalent in court politics. Gertrude’s complicity in Claudius’ scheme can be seen as a reflection of her own political naivety and lack of agency, brought about by her gender and status.

Literary Convention Analysis

The literary conventions of the play also impact the development of Gertrude’s character. Shakespeare frequently employs the trope of the “fallen woman” in his plays, where women who violate societal norms are punished with tragic consequences. Gertrude’s role as a “fallen woman” is exemplified by her remarriage to Claudius, which is seen as a violation of her loyalty to her husband and the moral norms of the society. Her death, which occurs as a result of her drinking poisoned wine intended for Hamlet, can also be seen as a punishment for her initial transgression.

Postcolonial Analysis

A postcolonial analysis of Gertrude’s character in Hamlet reveals an intersectional approach represented in her actions and relationships. In Shakespeare’s times, post conception of race and colonialism, the role of women as caretakers of the home, wife, and mother was certainly universal. However, the subjugation of women’s identity and import into binaries were considered predominant. In relation to Gertrude, the interpretation can be further analyzed in the subtextual layer of the play. Gertrude’s role is that of a wife to King Hamlet, and subsequently a mother to Prince Hamlet, and the queen once more after marrying Claudius. Her husband’s death left her vulnerable, just as a colonized nation is left vulnerable without its ruler. Hence, in order to secure the throne, she remarries quickly. This reflects the colonial preoccupation with protecting possessions and empire. Claudius’ presence also leads Gertrude to contest for power as seen in her interference with Polonius’ use of Ophelia to spy on Hamlet.

Feminist Analysis

A feminist lens of analysis focuses on the role of women in the play, their representation, participation and perception. The prime female character is Gertrude, who is placed in a male dominated space. Feminist criticism brings to light the role of women in a society where they are inferior and their opinions are suppressed by men. Women in the play are seen as sexual objects that are subordinate to the autonomy of men. Hamlet attempts to overcome the male oppression and control when he dismisses Ophelia by saying, “Get thee to a nunnery.” Gertrude is expected to fulfil her duties as a wife and mother. She is not perceived to have a personality of her own. Her role is to console and support King Hamlet and then Claudius. Gertrude is portrayed as a weak character as she is incapable of taking an independent decision without any male influence in her life.

Conclusion

Gertrude is an intricate character whose motivations and actions can be interpreted through different lenses. Her relationships and actions are shaped by gender, psychology, historical context, and literary conventions, as well as postcolonial and feminist perspectives. Depending on the perspective, Gertrude can be seen as a sympathetic or villainous character, caught in the middle of a power struggle and navigating complex emotional and social dynamics. Shakespeare’s portrayal of Gertrude offers a rich and nuanced exploration of women’s place in society and the complex dynamics of power and gender. The portrayal of Gertrude in the play offers us a glimpse not only of the role of women in Shakespeare’s times but also a depiction of the mindset of the period, patriarchal, discriminatory, and subjugating women to the supremacy of men.