Response to Open Prompt

A symbol is an object, action, or event that represents something or that creates a range of associations beyond itself. In literary works a symbol can express an idea, clarify meaning, or enlarge literal meaning. Select a novel or play and, focusing on one symbol, write an essay analyzing how that symbol functions in the work and what it reveals about the characters or themes of the work as a whole. Do not merely summarize the plot.

In William Shakespeare's Hamlet, it may seem hard to find an object or entity that functions as a symbol simply because there is little mention of specific objects. However, one prop which serves as a powerful symbol is Yorick's scull, introduced near the end of the play. The skull not only represents the passing from life to death, but also a happier time in Hamlet's life. It reveals a gentler side to Hamlet's perspective on death in contrast to his reaction to the death of his father and Ophelia. The skull allows for a quiet period of reflection on the nature of mortality amidst the psychological trauma surrounding the rest of the play, and thus provides powerful insight.

When the Gravedigger finds the skull as he is clearing a space for Ophelia's corpse, Hamlet does not initially recognize it. However, after inquiring, the Gravedigger tells him that it belongs to Yorick, the king's jester. Upon hearing this, Hamlet launches into a speech where he fondly recalls Yorick as a "fellow of infinite jest." Often, this scene is portrayed with Hamlet affectionately holding the skull. The contrast between the physical remains of the person and the memory of their past life is at the essence of the skull's symbolic meaning. Hamlet shows a love for the ghost of his father, but this love comes with a great pain, as the ghost urges him toward violence and revenge. In contrast to the supernatural remains of Hamlet's father, the literal remains of Yorick bring nothing but pleasant recollection. Hamlet's perspective on death seems to shift. Instead of tormenting him, it brings a sentimental bond.

Later in the scene, Hamlet shifts his perspective entirely when he jumps into Ophelia's open grave. I Yorick's time-worn skull represents a peaceful passing, the fresh corpse of Ophelia is anything but. In this way, the skull shows that death is a natural process, and that because Ophelia's death was in itself unnatural, Hamlet cannot see that she is subject to the same forces. The skull reminds Hamlet of a happier time, perhaps temporarily restoring balance to his perception of death. Hamlet's lack of respect for the corpse of Polonius, his angry attempt to recover the body of Ophelia, and his haunting encounter with the ghost of Lord Hamlet all show maddening and negative associations with the dead, and perhaps through their contrast to Yorick imply that an unhealthy take on death is key to Hamlet's madness.

Overall, the skull has a minor but powerful role in Hamlet, and helps to illuminate some of the patterns in Hamlet's behavior that are related to the source of his madness. While its symbolic significance does not have a direct impact on the plot, it does on the interpretation of the plot and sheds new light on the meaning of death, which is central to understanding the entire work.