The Shakespeare Conference: SHK 14.1167  Thursday, 12 June 2003

From:           Edward Pixley <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>
Date:           Wednesday, 11 Jun 2003 08:50:38 -0400
Subject: 14.1146 Re: Polonius and Reynaldo
Comment:        Re: SHK 14.1146 Re: Polonius and Reynaldo

Larry Weiss <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.> writes,

>The answer to Kenneth Chan's query about the "reasons ... for inclusion
>of this dialogue" can be found in the recent colloquy between Ed Pixley
>and myself about the function of this passage.  It serves the same
>purpose as the device of falling calendar pages did in 1930s cinema --
>it illustrates the passage of time.
>
>Incidentally, it also elaborates on Polonius's "indirect" methods,
>which, together with the advice to Laertes, provides the most
>satisfactory explanation for Hamlet's recognition of Polonius's hand in
>the Nunnery Scene.

You might also consider the way in which the scene introduces the spying
motif which permeates the play.

Ed Pixley

_______________________________________________________________
S H A K S P E R: The Global Shakespeare Discussion List
Hardy M. Cook, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The S H A K S P E R Web Site <http://www.shaksper.net>

DISCLAIMER: Although SHAKSPER is a moderated discussion list, the
opinions expressed on it are the sole property of the poster, and the
editor assumes no responsibility for them.

Subscribe to Our Feeds

Search

Make a Gift to SHAKSPER

Consider making a gift to support SHAKSPER.