Hamlet+1.2

4. Claudius, the new King, states, "With mirth in funeral and with dirge in marriage," which is a paradoxical statement because he is marrying the widowed queen, who used to be married to his brother, not long after the death (1.2.12). When declaring the marriage, no one in the castle objects to the idea, though it seems to be a bit incestual.

6. There is an obvious tension between young Hamlet and the King because of his new position on the monarchy replacing his father. This is apparent as the King says, "But now, my cousin Hamlet and my son-" and young Hamlet turns to the side to state, "A little more kin and less than kind" (1.2.66-67). Hamlet wouldn't dare to say something insulting to his face as he is refferring to the man's new relationship as both father and uncle. Hamlet obviously doesn't enjoy being the king's son and is still mourning his father's death, clear in his tone and attitude during conversation.

8. An ambiguous line in the scene is the Queen's statement, "Thou know'st 'tis common; all that lives must die, passing through nature to eternity" (1.2.74-75). This is a significant line because it adresses the topic of death which is so prevalent in the play due to the Kings recent passing. Though she seems as though she is reflecting upon the afterlife, Hamlet questions his mother's genuine feelings of remorse. He states, "Nor windy suspiration of forced breath, No, nor the fruitful river in the eye" (1.2.82-83).